PAUL.

I do not understand.

JEAN.

I am turnkey here, though once a servant of the Duke’s.  You love his daughter; I can help her father to escape.

PAUL.

How?

JEAN.

[Crossing to the door.]

This opens on a staircase leading to the river.  Here’s the key.  I have a boat below.  To-night I’ll creep up the stairs and knock three times.  Open, then, this door—­and you’ll find deliverance for those you love.

PAUL.

[Taking the key.]

How can I repay this deed?

JEAN.

Trust me—­that is all.

PAUL.

[Extending his hand.]

I will—­I do!

JEAN.

[Kissing PAUL’S hand.]

I’m yours in life or death.

[Goes to door.]

Till to-night!

[Exit.

PAUL.

[Alone.]

Saved!—­Thank God!—­Their freedom in my hand!—­

[Pausing.]

And yet she does not come.—­Can it be that she believes me guilty—­esteems me lower than the foulest worm?

[Enter DIANE.]

No, no,—­I was right!

[Going toward her.]

I knew you’d come.

DIANE.

[Checking him.]

Stop!—­Let me look at you and say farewell.

PAUL.

Then you really think me guilty?

DIANE.

If an angel had accused you, I would say it was a lie.

PAUL.

Diane!  Diane!—­My loyal wife!

[He embraces her.

DIANE.

[Shrinking from him.]

No, no!  I am not worthy of your love!  I must save my father’s life, no matter what it costs me.

PAUL.

Courage, dear heart!  I hold here salvation for you both.

DIANE.

You?

PAUL.

Yes!  This very night your father shall fly with us to England.

DIANE.

Ah!  Then I am free!  I need owe him nothing!