Teodora. Poor fellow, he pays a heavy price for his savage distrust.
Ernest. [Horrified to find he has been blaming Don Julian to Teodora.] What have I said? I don't accuse him—no—I meant [He hastens to exculpate Don Julian and modify his former words.] Anybody might feel the same, that is, if he were very much in love. In our earthly egoism, don't we doubt the very God in heaven? And the owner of a treasure jealously watches it as gold, and cannot but fear for it. I, too, in his place, would be full of doubt,—yes—even of my own brother. [Speaks with increasing fervour, and again restrains himself, perceiving that he is on the brink of a peril he would avoid. Teodora hears voices outside and rushes to the door.]
Ernest. Whither are you leading me, rebel heart? What depth have I stirred? I accuse the world of calumny, and would now prove it right.
Teodora. Do you hear? Somebody is coming.
Ernest. [Following her.] It is hardly two o'clock. Can it be?
Teodora. [With terror.] It is Julian's voice.—He is coming in!
Ernest. No, they have prevented him.
Teodora. [Turns to Ernest, still frightened.] If it were Julian? [Moves towards the bedroom door. Ernest detains her respectfully.]
Ernest. Should it be he, stay here. Loyalty is our shield. Were it one of those who distrust us—then there, Teodora. [Points to the door.] Ah, nobody. [Listening.]
Teodora. How my heart throbs!
Ernest. You need not be afraid. The person who
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