Man. For myself, it matters not, but my sister, my little darling, helpless sister—should I fall—Oh! Heaven, let my errors be so atoned, and look down in pity on the orphan child, bereaved of earthly succor, to be the more dependent upon thine.
[As he raises his head, he perceives Bevannes approaching, and his bearing becomes calm and resolute.
Enter Bevannes.
Bev. Monsieur Manuel, can I have a few words with you?
Man. I am at your service, sir.
Bev. What I am about to say, considering our position, may seem irregular, but I obey orders which cannot be disputed. Besides, I believe no man can doubt my courage—
Man. Not I, be assured, sir.
Bev. To be brief, I am commissioned by the ladies to express their regret for what has just occurred. M'lle Marguerite, in a moment of forgetfulness, gave you certain orders, which it was plainly not your province to fulfil. Your susceptibility was justly wounded. We admit it, and—
Man. Not one word more, sir, I entreat.
Bev. Your hand. [Manuel gives his hand.] The ladies also desire me to express their hope that this momentary misunderstanding will not deprive them of your good offices, the value of which they fully appreciate, and I am extremely happy in having acquired within the last few minutes, the right to join my entreaty to theirs. My most ardent wish is about to be gratified.