C.-C. Ah, well, he’s always had the reputation of being a humorist and a gentleman.
Elizabeth. Did you expect her to be like that, poor dear?
C.-C. My dear child, I hadn’t the vaguest idea. You were asking me the other day what she was like when she ran away. I didn’t tell you half. She was so gay and so natural. Who would have thought that animation would turn into such frivolity, and that charming impulsiveness lead to such a ridiculous affectation?
Elizabeth. It rather sets my nerves on edge to hear the way you talk of her.
C.-C. It’s the truth that sets your nerves on edge, not I.
Elizabeth. You loved her once. Have you no feeling for her at all?
C.-C. None. Why should I?
Elizabeth. She’s the mother of your son.
C.-C. My dear child, you have a charming nature, as simple, frank, and artless as hers was. Don’t let pure humbug obscure your common sense.
Elizabeth. We have no right to judge. She’s only been here two days. We know nothing about her.