she can secure as a Marquise, and my wife.

[_The_ DUKE _turns quickly in surprise_.]

I know, dear Duke, that you are richer, nobler than myself, but then
the love I bear your daughter, together with the dangers that surround
her life and honour here--

DUKE.

Say no more!--There's nothing that would ease my mind so much as to
see Diane your wife.

GOUROC.

Then plead my cause with her.

DUKE.

I'll more than plead.--Her perils urge me to command this marriage.

GOUROC.

Then do not lose a moment; the attack begins to-night. Before our army
strikes, she and I, as man and wife, should sail for England.

NANETTE.

[_Entering_.]

Monsieur, your daughter desires a word with you--[_Glancing at_
GOUROC.] alone.

DUKE.

Say I'll see her here at once.

[_Exit_ NANETTE.]

I'll broach this marriage to my child without delay.

GOUROC.

[_Going_.]

I'll be at hand in case you call me.

[_Exit_.

DUKE.

[_Alone_.]

This alliance secures Diane from peril. The Marquis is young,
noble,--has saved her life, and has a claim on it. She must marry
while there's time to get away.

[_Enter_ DIANE.]

Now, dear child, what is it?

DIANE.

Father, I loathe this useless life of mine! I long for
action--danger--anything that stirs the blood, and brings oblivion.

DUKE.

Oblivion!--Nay, Diane, I have something happier to suggest than that.
Time and circumstance commend to you a marriage. We owe our lives to
the wisdom of a man who seeks your hand to-day.

DIANE.

The Marquis?--[_After a pause_.] I cannot marry, for I do not love
him.

DUKE.

Then 'tis time you did.

DIANE.

No more, I beg of you.--It is impossible!

DUKE.

Impossible! When prompted by the wisdom of a father's love? When your
escape from peril and my peace of mind demand it?

DIANE.

I cannot argue.

DUKE.

Then at least explain.

DIANE.

Alas, I dare not.

DUKE.

You fear mere frankness with your truest friend?

[DIANE _sinks into a chair and hides her face. The_ DUKE _looks at her
with suspicion_.]

By heaven! You hide your face as though to speak implied dishonour.

DIANE.

No, no! It is not that!

DUKE.

Then why torture me with this concealment? Have I been cruel, or
faithless as a father?

DIANE.

Never!

DUKE.

Then I claim a father's sacred right to confidence. Give me one good
reason why you refuse the man to whom we owe our lives?

DI