Severo. Again!
Ernest. Again.
Severo. You have dared to return?
Ernest. You insolently affront Teodora. I still live. What do you expect me to do, if not return and chastise you, and brand you as a coward?
Severo. Me?
Ernest. Precisely.
Teodora. No!
Ernest. He has brought it on himself. I have seen him lift his hand in anger to you—you, you! So now—— [Seizes Don Severo violently.]
Severo. You impudent puppy!
Ernest. True, but I'll not release you. You loved and respected your mother, I presume. For that reason you must respect Teodora, and humbly bow before a sorrow so immense as hers. This woman, sir, is purer, more honest than the mother of such a man as you.