Fontanares (to Quinola)
That creature has a wife!
Quinola
Yes, and if she brings forth young they will eat up Catalonia.
Mathieu Magis
I have heavy expenses.
Fontanares
You see how I live.
Mathieu Magis Ah! If I were rich, I would lend you (Quinola holds out his hands) the wherewith to live better.
Fontanares
Wait fifteen days longer.
Mathieu Magis (aside) This cuts me to the heart. If the matter concerned only myself I would perhaps let it go, but I must earn what has been promised me, which is to be my daughter's dowry. (Aloud) Now really, I have a great regard for you, you please me immensely—
Quinola (aside)
To think that it would be a crime to strangle him!
Fontanares
You are of iron; I shall show myself as hard as steel.
Mathieu Magis
What do you mean, senor?