Severo. We'll see that. There are servants to kick you out, and sticks if necessary.
Ernest. Try it. [Approaches Don Severo with a threatening air. Teodora rushes between them.]
Teodora. Ernest! [Turns commandingly to Don Severo.] You seem to forget that this is my house as long as my husband lives and is its owner. Only one of us two has the right to command here. [Softens to Ernest.] Not for him but for my sake, because I am unhappy
Ernest. [Unable to contain his joy at hearing himself defended by Teodora.] You wish it, Teodora?
Teodora. I beg it. [Ernest bows and turns away.]
Severo. Your audacity confounds and shocks me as much—no, far more, than his. [Strides menacingly towards her. Ernest turns swiftly round, then makes a strong effort to control himself and moves away again.] You dare to raise your head, wretched woman, and before me too! Shame on you! [Ernest repeats previous movements and gestures, but this time more accentuated.] You, so fearful and cowardly, where have you found courage to display this energy in his defence? How eloquent is passion! [Ernest stands, looking back.] But you forget that, before pitching him out, I had the authority to forbid the door of this house to you, who have stained its threshold with Julian's blood. Why have you returned? [Seizes her brutally and drags her roughly toward himself.]
Ernest. No, I can't stand this—I cannot! [He thrusts himself between Severo and Teodora.] Off, you scoundrel.
Severo. Again!
Ernest. Again.
Severo. You have dared to return?
Ernest. You insolently affront Teodora. I still live.
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