Marie
That would be to die, but yet my life is wholly his.
Faustine (aside as she rises from her seat) What strength in weakness and innocence! (Aloud) You have never left your father's house, you know nothing of the world nor of its hardships, which are terrible! A man often dies from having met with a woman who loves him too much, or one who loves him not at all; Fontanares may find himself in this situation. He has powerful enemies; his glory, which is all he lives for, is in their hands; you may disarm them.
Marie
What must I do?
Faustine By marrying Sarpi, you will assure the triumph of your dear Fontanares; but no woman would counsel such a sacrifice; it must come, it will come from you. At first you must dissemble. Leave Barcelona for a time. Retire to a convent.
Marie And never see him again? Ah! If you knew—he passes every day at a certain hour under my windows, and that hour is all the day to me.
Faustine (aside)
She stabs me to the heart! Oh! She shall be Countess Sarpi.
SCENE FIFTEENTH
The same persons and Fontanares.
Fontanares (to Faustine)
Senora. (He kisses her hand.)
Marie (aside)
What a pang I feel!