Ernest. For your sake?

Teodora. It would be such a horrible scandal.

Ernest. That is possible.

Teodora. You can say it so coolly, and not endeavour to avoid it, not even when it is I who implore you!

Ernest. I cannot avoid it, but I can chastise it: so I think and say, and this is my business. Others will look for the insult, I for the punishment.

Teodora. [Coming nearer and speaking softly, as if afraid of her own voice.] And Julian?

Ernest. Well?

Teodora. If he were to know about it?

Ernest. He will know about it.

Teodora. What will he say?