So, as you were saying--go on.

Widow. Oh, I cannot excuse him, ma'am--he was not in his right senses.

Pauline. But he always--always [sobbing] loved--loved me then?

Widow. He thought of nothing else. See here--he learnt to paint that
he might take your likeness [uncovers the picture]. But that's all over
now--I trust you have cured him of his folly;--but, dear heart, you have
had no breakfast!

Pauline. I can't take anything--don't trouble yourself.

Widow. Nay, madam, be persuaded; a little coffee will refresh you. Our
milk and eggs are excellent. I will get out Claude's coffee-cup--It
is of real Sevres; he saved up all his money to buy it three years ago,
because the name of Pauline was inscribed on it.

Pauline. Three years ago! Poor Claude!--Thank you; I think I will have
some coffee. Oh! if he were but a poor gentleman, even a merchant: but a
gardener's son--and what a home!--Oh no,--it is too dreadful!

They seat themselves at the table, BEAUSEANT opens the lattice and looks
in.

Beau. So--so--the coast is clear! I saw Claude in the lane--I shall
have an excellent opportunity. [Shuts the lattice and knocks at the door.

Pauline. [starting]. Can it be my father?--he has not sent for--him
yet? No, he cannot be in such a hurry to get rid of me.

Widow. It is not time for your father to arrive yet; it must be some
neighbor.

Pauline. Don't admit any one.

[Widow opens the door, BEAUSEANT pushes her aside and enters. Ha!
Heavens! that hateful Beauseant! This is indeed bitter!

Beau. Good morning, madam! O widow, your son begs you will have the
goodness to go to him in the village he wants to speak to you on
particular business; you'll find him at the inn, or the grocer's shop,
or the baker's, or at some other friend's of your family--make haste.

Pauline. Don't leave me, mother!--don't leave me.

Beau. [with great respect]. Be not alarmed, madam. Believe me your
friend--your servant.

Pauline. Sir, I have no fear of you, even in this house! Go, madam, if
your son wishes it; I will not contradict his commands whilst, at least
he has still the right to be obeyed.

Widow. I don't understand this; however, I sha'n't be long gone. [Exit.

Pauline. Sir, I divine the object of your visit--you wish to exult
in the humiliation of one who humbled you. Be it so; I am prepared to
endure all--even your presence!

Beau. You mistake me, madam--Pauline, you mistake me! I come to lay
my fortune at your feet.