Would it not be better to disobey him? Then I will write to
him--I will be generous, because, my triumph over her will be
complete--I will let my father still believe in her, and will explain
my flight by attributing it to the hatred which he bears to the name
of Marcandal and to my love for Ferdinand.
SCENE FOURTH
Pauline and Marguerite.
Marguerite
Does mademoiselle feel well again?
Pauline
Yes, I am well enough in body; but in mind--Oh, I am in despair! My
poor Marguerite, unfortunate is the girl who has lost her mother--
Marguerite
And whose father has for his second wife such a woman as Madame de
Grandchamp. But tell me, mademoiselle, am I not to you a humble and
devoted mother? My affection for you as a nurse has grown in
proportion to the hate with which this stepmother regards you.
Pauline
Yes, Marguerite, you may believe it, but you delude yourself. Your
love can never be as great as her hatred.
Marguerite
Oh! mademoiselle! If you would only put me to the proof!
Pauline
Really?--Would you leave France for me?
Marguerite
To be with you, I would travel to the Indies.
Pauline
And would you start at once?
Marguerite
At once!--My baggage is not heavy.
Pauline
Well, Marguerite, we will start to-night, and secretly.
Marguerite
But why is this?
Pauline
You ask me why? Do you not know that Madame de Grandchamp put me to
sleep with opium?
Marguerite
I know it, mademoiselle, and Doctor Vernon knows it also, for Felix
told me that he put under lock and key your teacup.
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