Ernest. [Deeply moved.] Don Julian!
D. Julian. You accept, then?
Ernest. I am yours to command.
Teodora. [To Don Julian.] At last you have tamed the savage.
Ernest. [To Don Julian.] Anything for your sake.
D. Julian. So would I have you always, Ernest. And now I have to write to my London correspondent, and thank him, and while recognising the extraordinary merit of his Englishman, whom he extols to the skies, regret that I have already engaged a young man. [Walks toward the first door on the right hand.] This is how we stand for the present; but in the future—it will be as partners. [Returns with an air of mystery.]
Teodora. Stop, Julian, I beg of you. Can't you see that he will take alarm? [Don Julian goes out on the right, and laughs to himself, looking back at Ernest.]
SCENE III
Teodora and Ernest. Towards the end of the last scene twilight has fallen, so that at this moment the room is in deep shadow.
Ernest. I am dazed by so much kindness. How can I ever repay it? [He sits down on the sofa, displaying great emotion. Teodora walks over and stands beside him].
Teodora. By ejecting the spirit of pride and distrust; by being sensible and believing that we truly love you, that we will never change; and by putting full faith in all Julian's promises. His word is sacred, Ernest, and in him you will always have a father, in me a sister.
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