D. Julian. We'll see—but here he comes [Looks down the stage.]
Teodora. Hush!
SCENE II
Don Julian, Teodora, and Ernest behind.
D. Julian. Welcome!
Ernest. Don Julian!—and Teodora! [Salutes absently. Sits down near the table in pensive silence.]
Don Julian. [Approaching him.] What's the matter?
Ernest. Nothing.
D. Julian. You look as if something ailed you—your preoccupation reveals it. No trouble, I hope?
Ernest. Nonsense.
D. Julian. Nor disappointment?
Ernest. None whatever.
D. Julian. I don't annoy you?
Ernest. You! good heavens! [Rises and comes toward him effusively.] You speak out of the right of friendship and affection, and you read me through and through. Yes, sir; there is indeed something the matter. I will tell you, if you, and you also, Teodora, out of your pity, will hold me excused. I am an ungrateful fool, a mere boy, in truth, deserving neither of your kindness nor of your affection. Possessing such a father and such a sister, I ought to be happy, with no care for the morrow. But it is not so. I blush to explain it,—can't you understand?—Yes, yes, you must see how false my position is. I live here on alms. [With energy.]
Teodora. Such a word
19
