Dr. Soberin:
There is something sad and melancholy about trips. I always hate to go away. But one has to find some new place or it would be impossible to be sad and melancholy again. [Lily tries to break open the box] Curiosity killed a cat and it certainly would have you if you'd followed your impulse to open it. You did very well to call me when you did.
Lily:
Yes, I know. But what's in it?
Dr. Soberin:
You have been misnamed, Gabrielle. You should have been called Pandora. She had a curiosity about a box and opened it and let loose all the evil in the world.
Lily:
Never mind about the evil. What's in it?
Dr. Soberin:
Did you ever hear of Lot's wife?
Lily:
No.
Dr. Soberin:
No. Well, she was told not to look back. But she disobeyed and she was changed into a pillar of salt.
Lily:
Well, I just want to know what it is.
Dr. Soberin:
Would you believe me if I told you? Would you be satisfied?
Lily:
Maybe.
Dr. Soberin:
The head of the Medusa. That's what's in the box. And whoever looks on her will be changed, not into stone, but into brimstone and ashes. Well, of course, you wouldn't believe me. You'd have to see for yourself, wouldn't you?
Lily:
Where are we going?
Dr. Soberin:
Where I am going, it is not possible for you to go. I had no illusion about deceiving you. You have the feline perceptions that all women have...
Lily:
Whatever is in that box - it must be very precious. So many people have died for it.
Dr. Soberin:
Yes, it is very precious.
Lily:
I want half.
Dr. Soberin:
I agree with you. You should have at least half. You deserve it, for all the creature comforts you've given me. But unfortunately, the object in this box cannot be divided.
Lily:
[She points a gun at him[;; Then I'll take it all...if you don't mind.
Dr. Soberin:
Listen to me, as if I were Cerberus barking with all his heads at the gates of Hell, I will tell you where to take it. But don't, don't open the box.
