MATT
How can you talk like that? I'm always thinking of you.
ELLEN I've stayed here long enough. I want my own way; I want to know the world.
MATT If you go, how will I be living, day after day? The heart will be gone out of me.
MURTAGH COSGAR
You'll be owning the land, Matt Cosgar.
MATT (passionately) I've worked on the land all my days. Don't talk to me about it now.
Ellen goes to Martin. Murtagh goes up to the door, and then turns and speaks.
MURTAGH COSGAR Listen to me, Matt Cosgar; and you listen too, Ellen Douras. It's a new house you want maybe. This house was built for me and my generations; but I'll build a new house for you both. It's hard for a man to part with his land before the hour of his death; and it's hard for a man to break his lands; but I'll break them, and give a share of land to you.
ELLEN You were never friendly to me; but you have the high spirit, and you deserve a better daughter than I would make. The land and house you offer would be a drag on me. (She goes to the door)
MATT
Ellen, what he offers is nothing, after all; but I care for you.
Sure you won't go from me like that?
ELLEN
Oh, can't you let me go?
I care for you as much as I care for any one. But it's my freedom I
want.