Mercedes. [Aside to Pepito.] He's wandering.
Pepito. 'Tis only his confession he's making.
Mercedes. [Aloud.] That will do, Ernest. Go, now.
Ernest. Impossible, madam. I should go mad if I had to spend to-night away from this sick-room—out of my mind.
Mercedes. But if Severo came and found you?
Ernest. What do I care? He is a loyal gentleman. Better still, let him come. We fly from fear, and only the guilty are afraid. Nothing will make me run away, or acknowledge fear.
Pepito. [Listening.] Somebody is coming.
Mercedes. Is it he?
Pepito. [Going down the stage.] No, 'tis Teodora.
Ernest. Teodora! Teodora! I want to see her.
Mercedes. [Sternly.] Ernest!
Ernest. Yes, I must ask her to forgive me.
Mercedes. You don't remember
Ernest. I remember everything and understand. We two together! Ah, no. Enough. You need not fear. For her would I shed my blood, lay down my life, sacrifice my future, honour—all! But see her? never. 'Tis no longer possible. The mist of blood has risen between us. [Goes out on the left.]
SCENE V.
Doña Mercedes and Pepito.
Mercedes. Leave me alone with her. Go inside to your father. I want to see into her heart, and shall be able to probe its depths with my tongue.
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