Angelica:
No, but your vivacity takes the place of indiscretion.
Edward: I know how to control my temperament. For example, from the moment I saw you I felt possessed to such a degree that you wouldn't think it possible. And I swear to you that a word of enlightenment—one little word from you, will make me just as tranquil as you are.
Angelica:
But suppose the word is that I have no intention of marrying you?
Edward: Ah, so that is what you dare to tell me? How can I listen to such infamy? Just Heaven!
Angelica: You're not tranquil: would you feel better if I promised never to marry anyone but you?
Edward: If you promised me that—ah! I'd die of delight. Yes, my joy would be so great—
Angelica: So that you would publish that, too. See how your transports of joy or despair give away everything! They would divulge my secret, and from them my mother would know what I want to do: then she would cross me furiously. Thus I find that I am wise to keep you ignorant of my true intentions.
Edward: I can't be ignorant of them, ingrate. They are so plain. So I tell you, I've just learned you will be betrothed to Mr. Nelson, today.
Angelica:
That is possibly true.
Edward:
And that's why I came here.