Hush, sweetheart, you must not make the struggle harder! The infant
age is threatened with miscarriage!--The torch of Liberty, which
should light mankind to progress, if left in madmen's hands, kindles
that blaze of Anarchy whose only end is ashes.
DIANE.
[_Suddenly starting_.]
Hush! Listen! What is that?
PAUL.
[_After listening_.]
Nothing, foolish child.
[_He is about to embrace her_.
DIANE.
[_Turning sadly away_.]
Nay, we are too rash! We forget the dangers that environ us.
PAUL.
Would we could forget the weak concealment that makes cowards of us
both!--Oh, that something would happen to make us end this living lie!
DIANE.
[_Solemnly_.]
Perhaps that something has happened, Paul. We have been warned that
we're no longer safe beneath this roof.
PAUL.
[_Amazed_.]
Warned!--By whom?
DIANE.
What matter by whom?--Enough that we've been told the Civil Guard may
search the house this very day.
PAUL.
[_With sudden resolution_.]
I am glad of it. Thank fate that something forces us to tell your
father you are mine.
DIANE.
Nay, Paul--I cannot, dare not tell him that!
PAUL.
Then leave the task to me.
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