_De la Cot._ Ah! put yourself in my place, and then, if you can, condemn my transports. My wounds, my blood, my being a prisoner of war, which prevents my promotion, the narrowness of my fortune, all appear nothing in comparison with the love which inflames my soul. The excellent principles of the young lady prevented her from assuring me that I possessed her heart, and in consequence I resolved to leave her. Ah! at the moment of taking leave, tears and sobs prevented her from speaking, and they proved her love was equal to mine. My wretchedness is extreme; my resolution seems barbarous; and now, frantic with love, reason appears to desert me.
_Gas._ Take time, sir; remain here. Monsieur Philibert is the best man in the world; in Holland they pride themselves on their hospitality, and our host takes the greatest interest in you, and in your health. You are not perfectly cured, and this is a good reason for not going.
_De la Cot._ I will think over what you say; very little would change my determination.
_Gas._ With your leave I will at once unpack the trunk. [_Unpacking._]
_De la Cot._ [_Apart._] What will they say if I remain after having taken my leave?
_Gas._ [_Apart._] Marianna will not be sorry for this.
_De la Cot._ [_Apart._] If I allege I am unwell, my sadness will make it appear so.
_De la Cot._ But the longer I remain, the more my love increases; and what remedy can there be for it? what hope is there for my desperate passion?
_Gas._ Time accomplishes wonders. [_Still unpacking._]
_De la Cot._ How much better to meet death at once than to live in such torture!
_Gas._ I said I was going to do it, and you did not forbid me.
_De la Cot._ Blockhead! put up the clothes. I shall go.
_Gas._ Well, whatever happens, let them remain now.
_De la Cot._ Do it at once, and order the post-horses at twelve o'clock.
_De la Cot._ Wretch! have you the heart to torment me?
_De la Cot._ Indeed, I am an object of compassion.
_Gas._ How I pity him! [_Putting the clothes in the trunk._]
_De la Cot._ Can I leave this house without seeing her again?
_Gas._ While he continues in this state of mind, we shall never be done.
_De la Cot._ By leaving her, I fear my love will not leave me.
_Gas._ Alas, poor master! [_Looking out._] What do I see?