I do not understand.
JEAN.
I am turnkey here, though once a servant of the Duke's. You love his
daughter; I can help her father to escape.
PAUL.
How?
JEAN.
[_Crossing to the door_.]
This opens on a staircase leading to the river. Here's the key. I have
a boat below. To-night I'll creep up the stairs and knock three times.
Open, then, this door--and you'll find deliverance for those you love.
PAUL.
[_Taking the key_.]
How can I repay this deed?
JEAN.
Trust me--that is all.
PAUL.
[_Extending his hand_.]
I will--I do!
JEAN.
[_Kissing_ PAUL'S _hand_.]
I'm yours in life or death.
[_Goes to door_.]
Till to-night!
[_Exit_.
PAUL.
[_Alone_.]
Saved!--Thank God!--Their freedom in my hand!--
[_Pausing_.]
And yet she does not come.--Can it be that she believes me
guilty--esteems me lower than the foulest worm?
[_Enter_ DIANE.]
No, no,--I was right!
[_Going toward her_.]
I knew you'd come.
DIANE.
[_Checking him_.]
Stop!--Let me look at you and say farewell.
PAUL.
Then you really think me guilty?
DIANE.
If an angel had accused you, I would say it was a lie.
PAUL.
Pages:
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76