Walter Heaven is my witness, I have tried to conquer my distaste and to respond in kind to such a soft and obliging proceeding; if it still depended on me to comply with your wishes in this—but you force me to tell you, before the whole world, that I am not free and my word is pledged forever.
Matthews
Forever! Without my consent?
Walter Only consider the difficult step I have just taken. You never wanted me to marry. I have taken a wife without your consent. My uncle, and all my relatives advised me to do it. And it was in their presence that I married Julia, Miss Prescott, a week ago.
Matthews I'm delighted to know that, Mr. Rogue, I know what measures I must take.
Walter All your measures will be useless. I pray heaven to destroy me, if I ever take another wife, except Julia, Miss Prescott. All the world knows Julia,—Miss Prescott, to be wise and virtuous. She had noble birth and a fortune large enough so that we can live comfortably without having a charge on you. The whole world is ours.
Matthews It infuriates me to agree he's right, and that I cannot disapprove this marriage without injustice.
Countess
Well! I can break it, even if you are crazy enough to approve it.
Walter
And, by what right, Madame, if you please?
Nugent
Believe me, Madame, it's better to swallow the pill quietly.
Countess
Wait and see. He will marry me or I will have him abducted.