Char. A moment, madam! The whole explanation lies in a word—has not your father concluded a treaty of marriage between you and lord Austencourt?
Helen. He has—
Char. There—’tis enough! you have confessed it—
Helen. (Stifling her tears) Confessed what? you monster! I’ve confessed nothing.
Char. Haven’t you acknowledged that you are to be the wife of another?
Helen. No.
Char. No! won’t you consent then?
Helen. Half an hour ago nothing on earth should have induced me to consent—but since I see, Charles, of what your temper is capable, I shall think it more laudable to risk my happiness by obedience to my father, than by an ill-judged constancy to one who seems so little inclined to deserve it. [Exit.
Char. Hey! where am I! zounds, I see my whole error at once! Oh, Helen, Helen—for mercy’s sake one moment more!—She’s gone—and has left me in anger! but I will see her again, and obtain her forgiveness—fool, idiot, dolt, ass, that I am, to suffer my cursed temper to master reason and affection at the risk of losing the dearest blessing of life—a lovely and an amiable woman! [Exit.
End of act III.