Ernest. But wherefore?
Teodora. When the world hears of the affront, and learns that it was not my husband who avenged me, and above all [drops her eyes ashamed] that it was you who took his place—have we not then a new scandal topping the old?
Ernest. [Convinced but protests.] If one had always to think of what people will say, by Heaven there would be no manner or means of living then!
Teodora. It is so, nevertheless.
Ernest. Just so. 'Tis horrible.
Teodora. Then yield.
Ernest. Impossible.
Teodora. I beseech you.
Ernest. No. Looking into the matter, as nobody can know what will happen, it is better that I should face Nebreda. For, after all, if the fellow lack a sense of honour, he can use a sword.
Teodora. [Wounded and humiliated in the protection Ernest seems to offer Don Julian.] My husband is not lacking in courage.
Ernest. Fatality again! Either I have expressed myself ill, or you do not understand me. I know his worth. But when a desperate injury lies between men of courage, who knows what may happen? which of them may fall, and which may kill? And if this man's sword must strike Don Julian or Ernest, can you doubt which it ought to be? [Questions her with sad sincerity.]
Teodora. [In anguish.] You!—oh, no—not that either.
Ernest. Why? If it is my fate? Nobody loses by my death, and I lose still less.
Teodora. For Heaven's sake, do not say that [Barely able to repress her sobs.]
Ernest. What do I leave behind me? Neither friendship
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