that [Still does not look at him, is half vexed and afraid.]
Ernest. I do not believe it. [Pause.]
Teodora. Adieu. I wish you all happiness.
Ernest. Adieu, Teodora. [Remains waiting for a moment to see if she will turn and offer him her hand. Then walks down the stage, turns back again, and approaches her. Teodora shows that she feels his movement, and is distressed, but continues to keep her face averted.] If with my death at this very instant I could blot out all the misery that lies to my account, not through any fault of mine, but through an implacable fate, I should not now be standing here alive. You may believe it on the word of an honourable man. No shadow of the past would remain,—neither sighs nor pain to remember, nor that sorrowful pallor of your face [Teodora starts and glances at him in terror], nor the grieved fear of those eyes, nor sobs that tear the throat, nor tears that line the cheek. [Teodora sobs.]
Teodora. [Aside, moving further away.] Mercedes was right, and I, blind and thoughtless that I was
Ernest. Bid me good-bye—once—for kindness's sake.
Teodora. Good-bye! Yes; and I forgive you all the injury you have done us.
Ernest. I, Teodora!
Teodora. Yes, you.
Ernest. What a look! What a tone!
Teodora. No more, Ernest, I beseech you.
Ernest. What have I done to deserve?
Teodora. It is all over between us. Regard me as one who no longer exists for you.
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