LAF. (in gentle remonstrance.) Sweetheart—
MAR. You cannot go. The house is guarded!
LAF. (dazed at first; then comprehending.) And you?... You wrote to me to come here?
MAR. The note was for Father Cuthbert. I had no idea ... then I overheard Manuel and Pedro....
LAF. Manuel! Is he coming? At last! (walks center; enter Beluche.)
BEL. Lafitte, General Jackson fears that the British are preparing to attack by way of Barataria. He commands me to caution you about the defense of that point.
LAF. Oh, I am perfectly confident of the fidelity of my men.
BEL. (grimly.) They have had provocation.
LAF. (indignantly.) Provocation! At a time like this, to speak of provocation!