What do you expect me to do, if not return and chastise you, and brand you as a coward?
Severo. Me?
Ernest. Precisely.
Teodora. No!
Ernest. He has brought it on himself. I have seen him lift his hand in anger to you—you, you! So now [Seizes Don Severo violently.]
Severo. You impudent puppy!
Ernest. True, but I'll not release you. You loved and respected your mother, I presume. For that reason you must respect Teodora, and humbly bow before a sorrow so immense as hers. This woman, sir, is purer, more honest than the mother of such a man as you.
Severo. This to me?
Ernest. Yes, and I have not yet done.
Severo. Your life
Ernest. Oh, my life, as much as you like—but afterwards. [Teodora endeavours to part them, but he pushes her gently away, without releasing Don Severo.] You believe in a God—in a Maker—in hope. Well, then, as you bend your knee before the altar of that God above, so will I compel you to kneel to Teodora,—and that instantly, sir. Down—in the dust.
Teodora. For mercy's sake
Ernest. To the ground! [Forces Don Severo to kneel.]
Teodora. Enough, Ernest.
Severo. A thousand thunders.
Ernest. At her feet!
Severo. You!
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