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Yes, I despise all blows dealt in darkness.
Even though those very blows could save your father’s life?
[Turning and staring at him.]
Save my father’s life?
Yes; I hold it in my power to set your father free, and escape with both of you to Vendee.—Say but the word and it is done.
Tell me the word that I may speak it quickly.
You know the past.—My one wild dream was to win you as my wife. Revolution came; I lost you in the chaos of the times; and when at last I found you, a traitor had nearly caused your death.
[In anguish.]
No more, sir! No more!
But I can save you yet.
Save my father! That is all I ask.
To save his life I must imperil my own. I am willing to do this, but—
[Scornfully.]
You must have your price!
Yes—that price, the right to save and guard you as my wife. One word of hope, and I am your slave forever.
Such a word would be cruelty to you, and crime in me.
[She starts to go.
[Seizing DIANE’S hand.]
Hear me, I beg—beseech—
[A bell tolls.]
Nay—I command!—Listen!
[Calls slowly in the distance.]
Hubert, Marquis de Ferrand,—Comte de Vigny,—Duc de Beaumont——
[DIANE turns in horror.
Your father is called for trial! That means certain death.
[Kneeling.]
Save him!—I will pay the price with everything I have.
I may hope?
Yes! Take hope from my despair.
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