(Vernon bows and escorts Gertrude out.)
SCENE THIRD
Pauline (alone; she rings) Yes, the only alternative left me is to flee with him; if we continue this conflict, my stepmother and I, it can but result in my father's dishonor. Would it not be better to disobey him? Then I will write to him—I will be generous, because, my triumph over her will be complete—I will let my father still believe in her, and will explain my flight by attributing it to the hatred which he bears to the name of Marcandal and to my love for Ferdinand.
SCENE FOURTH
Pauline and Marguerite.
Marguerite
Does mademoiselle feel well again?
Pauline Yes, I am well enough in body; but in mind—Oh, I am in despair! My poor Marguerite, unfortunate is the girl who has lost her mother—
Marguerite And whose father has for his second wife such a woman as Madame de Grandchamp. But tell me, mademoiselle, am I not to you a humble and devoted mother? My affection for you as a nurse has grown in proportion to the hate with which this stepmother regards you.
Pauline Yes, Marguerite, you may believe it, but you delude yourself. Your love can never be as great as her hatred.
Marguerite
Oh! mademoiselle! If you would only put me to the proof!