Don Lorenzo. A very important one. [Looks from one to the other angrily and suspiciously.] But why do you want to know?
Doña Ángela. Don't be offended, Lorenzo. Forgive me if I have committed an indiscretion.
Don Lorenzo. I forgive! It is I who want your forgiveness. Through me, through my fault, are you about to be plunged into misery.
Doña Ángela. Do not say so. We could never be miserable, you being happy.
Don Lorenzo. And I, could I be happy, fortune having deserted you and my beloved child?
Doña Ángela. She, too, will be happy.
Don Lorenzo. Impossible, for you know what I am thinking of.
Doña Ángela. You have told me. Don't you remember?
Don Lorenzo. [To Dr. Tomás.] And you?
Dr. Tomás. I also know.
Don Lorenzo. You approve?
Doña Ángela. [Sweetly.] Whatever you do will be well done.
Don Lorenzo. [To Dr. Tomás] What have you to say?
Dr. Tomás. The same.
Don Lorenzo. [Thoughtfully.] 'The same.' What conformity of opinion! Do you know that I have sent for a notary?
Doña Ángela. We know it.
Don Lorenzo. [Looking at both.] You know it. And do you likewise know that I am about to have a legal
171
