--It is impossible!
DUKE.
Impossible! When prompted by the wisdom of a father's love? When your
escape from peril and my peace of mind demand it?
DIANE.
I cannot argue.
DUKE.
Then at least explain.
DIANE.
Alas, I dare not.
DUKE.
You fear mere frankness with your truest friend?
[DIANE _sinks into a chair and hides her face. The_ DUKE _looks at her
with suspicion_.]
By heaven! You hide your face as though to speak implied dishonour.
DIANE.
No, no! It is not that!
DUKE.
Then why torture me with this concealment? Have I been cruel, or
faithless as a father?
DIANE.
Never!
DUKE.
Then I claim a father's sacred right to confidence. Give me one good
reason why you refuse the man to whom we owe our lives?
DIANE.
I love another.
DUKE.
[_Starting_.]
Another!
[_After a pause_.]
His name--?
DIANE.
What matter, since we shall never meet again?
DUKE.
I understand at last!--'Tis Paul Kauvar!
[DIANE _bows her head_.]
So! The saviour of your father's life is scorned for his betrayer! No
wonder that you blush to own it! This makes my course more clear. The
safest cure for this disgraceful love will be your marriage.
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