burnt away the bandage with which before you two had blinded me, and at last I see you for what you are. And now!—but why these glances at one another? Why, traitors? Why do your eyes gleam so? Tell me, Ernest. There are no tears in them to make them shine. Come nearer—nearer to me. [Draws Ernest to him, bends his head, and then succeeds in thrusting him upon his knees. Thus Teodora is on one side of Don Julian and Ernest at his feet. Don Julian passes his hand across the young man's eyes.] You see—no tears—they are quite dry.
Ernest. Forgive me, forgive me!
D. Julian. You ask my forgiveness? Then you acknowledge your sin?
Ernest. No.
D. Julian. Yes.
Ernest. I say it is not so.
D. Julian. Then here before me, look at her.
D. Severo. Julian!
Mercedes. Sir!
D. Julian. [To Teodora and Ernest.] Perhaps you are afraid? So it is not like a brother that you cherish her? If so, prove it. Let me see what sort of light shines in your eyes as they meet—whether, to my close inspection, the rays dart passion's flame, or mild affection. Come here, Teodora. Both—so—still nearer. [Drags Teodora until she stumbles, so that both faces are compelled towards each other.]
Teodora. [Frees herself with a violent effort.] Oh, no.
Ernest. [Also strives to free himself, but is held in Don Julian's grasp.] I cannot.
D. Julian. You love one another—you can't deny it, for I've seen it. [To Ernest.] Your life!
91
