(Aside) That is
a good idea! (Aloud) You had better bring to her the consolations of
religion.
The General
Vernon, I wish to see her, to give her my last kiss.
Vernon
Be careful!
The General (kissing her)
Oh! How icy cold she is!
Vernon
That is a peculiarity of her sickness, General. Hurry to the priest's
house, for in case my remedies fail, it is not right that your
daughter, who has been reared as a Christian, should be forgotten by
the Church.
The General
Ah! yes. I will go.
(The General moves towards the bed.)
Vernon (pointing towards the door)
This way!
The General
I quite lose my head; I am distracted--O Vernon, work a miracle for
us! You have saved so many people--and here you cannot save the life
of my child!
Vernon
Come, come, be off. (Aside) I must go with him, for if he meets the
magistrates there will be more trouble still.
(Exit the General and Vernon.)
SCENE THIRD
Pauline and Ferdinand.
Pauline
Ferdinand!
Ferdinand
Ah! My God! Can this be her last sigh? Pauline, you are my very life;
if Vernon does not save you, I will follow you, and we shall still be
united.
Pauline
I shall expire, then, without a single regret.
Ferdinand (takes up the flask)
That which would have saved you, if the doctor had arrived earlier,
shall deliver me from life.
Pauline
No, for you may still be happy.
Ferdinand
Never, without you.
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