That man forced my door; he even broke it. He insulted you before me, who love you.
Lionnette
You must remember he loves me too: that is his excuse.
Nourvady
You defend him.
Lionnette (while putting on her hat, mantle, and gloves)
Ah! heaven help me, no! Well, what would you have said to him if they had announced you to him as you said, and he had received you? But I doubt if he would have received you after what is passed.
Nourvady
If he had refused to receive me, I should have burst open his door in my turn, and…
Lionnette
Ah! I forbid you absolutely to provoke him at present… If I were a widow through you … or if he killed you, you would not be able to marry me … and if, one day, we could legitimize the false position we are going to hold, I should be very glad of it. Let us trust to Providence, as my mother used to say. Apart from all that, I am ready… Let us start!..
(At the moment that she turns round to go out Raoul enters, and throws himself into her arms to kiss her.)
Raoul
Mamma!
Lionnette (surprised and agitated)
Ah! it is you. You frightened me!
Raoul
Kiss me.
Lionnette (kissing him coldly)
You think then of embracing me to-day. (With a sigh) It is rather late.
Raoul
Where are you going?
Lionnette
I am going out.
Raoul
When are you coming back?
Lionnette
I don't know.
Raoul
To-day?
Lionnette
To-day.
Raoul
Take me with you.
Lionnette
It is impossible.
Raoul
Why? It is such fine weather.
Lionnette
I am going too far. I shall send you some toys, you may be sure.
Raoul
I like better going with you.
Lionnette
Impossible, I tell you. Go now; let me pass.
Raoul
No!
Lionnette
You must, my child.
Nourvady (very agitated and very impatient during this scene, walks from right to left to see if any one is coming.)
Some one is coming.