wanted to come in has gone away—or it was an illusion. For God's sake, Teodora! [Advances up the stage.]
Teodora. I had so much to say to you, Ernest, and the time has passed so quickly.
Ernest. The time has flown.
Teodora. I wanted
Ernest. Teodora, pray forgive me—but is it prudent? If any one came in—and, indeed, I fear some one will.
Teodora. That is why I came—to prevent it.
Ernest. So that?
Teodora. I know everything, and I am stricken with horror at the thought that blood should be shed on my account. My head is on fire, my heart is bursting. [Strikes her breast.]
Ernest. It is the affront that burns and shames you until my hand has struck at Nebreda's life. He wanted mud! Well, let him have it stained with blood.
Teodora. You would kill him?
Ernest. Certainly. [Represses Teodora's movement of supplication.] You can dispose of me in all else but in this one thing. Do not ask me to feel compassion for a man whose insult I remember.
Teodora. [Prayerfully, with a sob.] For my sake!
Ernest. For your sake?
Teodora. It would be such a horrible scandal.
Ernest. That is possible.
Teodora. You can say it so coolly, and not endeavour to avoid it, not even when it is I who implore you!
Ernest. I cannot avoid it, but I can chastise it: so I
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