Jean and Julie contemplate escape; Jean, condemning the tradition and class bias of Sweden, wishes to take a train to Italy, where he can run a hotel with investment capital from Julie. Julie replies she has no money of her own, and is shocked by his sudden demeanor of callousness towards her. He is unconcerned about her fears of the Count learning of the scandal, and reveals he is not willing to die for her as he suggested. Just as he had told her about his boyhood, Julie recounts her girlhood: Her mother Berta was a commoner who believed in women's rights and had to be persuaded to marry. She married Count Carl, and they had Julie, who was dressed in boy's clothes, but Julie preferred playing with dolls. The Countess set fire to their home. The Count later attempted suicide by firearm. Upon hearing of the story, Jean declares himself of superior heritage, as Julie is the daughter of an arsonist.