I? No one living has more feeling than I but I can restrain
myself.
JULIE. A moment ago you could kiss my slipper and now--
JEAN [Harshly]. That was--then. Now we have other things to think
about.
JULIE. Don't speak harshly to me.
JEAN. Not harshly, but wisely. One folly has been committed--commit
no more. The Count may be here at any moment, and before he comes,
our fate must be settled. How do my plans for the future strike
you? Do you approve of them?
JULIE. They seem acceptable enough. But one question. For such a
great undertaking a large capital is necessary, have you that?
JEAN [Chewing his cigar]. I? To be sure. I have my regular
occupation, my unusual experience, my knowledge of different
languages--that is capital that counts, I should say.
JULIE. But with all that you could not buy a railway ticket.
JEAN. That's true, and for that reason I'm looking for a backer who
can furnish the funds.
JULIE. How can that be done at a moment's notice?
JEAN. That is for you to say, if you wish to be my companion.
JULIE. I can't--as I have nothing myself.
[A pause.]
JEAN. Then the whole matter drops-- --
JULIE. And-- --
JEAN. Things remain as they are.
JULIE. Do you think I could remain under this roof after----Do you
think I will allow the people to point at me in scorn, or that I
can ever look my father in the face again? Never! Take me away from
this humiliation and dishonor. Oh, what have I done! Oh, my God,
what have I done! [Weeping.
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