DIANE.

Yes, I despise all blows dealt in darkness.

GOUROC.

Even though those very blows could save your father’s life?

DIANE.

[Turning and staring at him.]

Save my father’s life?

GOUROC.

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.

DIANE.

Tell me the word that I may speak it quickly.

GOUROC.

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.

DIANE.

[In anguish.]

No more, sir!  No more!

GOUROC.

But I can save you yet.

DIANE.

Save my father!  That is all I ask.

GOUROC.

To save his life I must imperil my own.  I am willing to do this, but—­

DIANE.

[Scornfully.]

You must have your price!

GOUROC.

Yes—­that price, the right to save and guard you as my wife.  One word of hope, and I am your slave forever.

DIANE.

Such a word would be cruelty to you, and crime in me.

[She starts to go.

GOUROC.

[Seizing DIANE’S hand.]

Hear me, I beg—­beseech—­

[A bell tolls.]

Nay—­I command!—­Listen!

A VOICE.

[Calls slowly in the distance.]

Hubert, Marquis de Ferrand,—­Comte de Vigny,—­Duc de Beaumont——­

[DIANE turns in horror.

GOUROC.

Your father is called for trial!  That means certain death.

DIANE.

[Kneeling.]

Save him!—­I will pay the price with everything I have.

GOUROC

I may hope?

DIANE.

Yes!  Take hope from my despair.

GOUROC.