DUKE.

Must take the chances of a soldier’s child.

GOUROC.

You forget her peril from this scoundrel, Carrac.—­Why not put her safely out of the reach of such a brute?

DUKE.

How?

GOUROC.

There are vessels here by which we can escape to England.

DUKE.

I fly no further.  I owe the King and country service here.

GOUROC.

Then let Diane go with me to friends in London.  When I’ve found for her safe asylum, I’ll return to do my duty at your side.

DUKE.

The daughter of a peer of France could hardly go so far without protection worthy of her rank.

GOUROC.

That 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.