Spruce Peace--away with petulance. I won't talk to either of you, if you are always going to interrupt. The man who made this impertinent speech to you is him--except he's not him. It's only his figure, manner, name, and face. The one looks like the other. But, they differ, both are not the same, and, in fact, are two! Thus, the other one is him--dressed in his skin, the portrait of my Captain--he's the one who spoke so unfeelingly to you. Flavella With what kind of nonsense do you hope to confuse me? Captain Don't go off without listening to him speak. Spruce Maybe I am not making myself clear. Monsieur has a brother in these parts, a twin brother--identical in features and clothes. It was his tongue that lashed you. You took him for this one, who is like him. The other one is a brutal imposter. Here is the real McNaughten. Flavella What a strange story. Strange, I haven't heard it before. But--I choose to believe it as it flatters my pride. Love renders my scorn just and pardonable. Captain Your anger renders you more adorable in my eyes. Permit my passion-- (Trying to kiss her) Flavella Moderate your passions-- Captain I am at fault. Too transported by pleasure, I push my passion a little too far. But let us both forget our scorn. Spruce (showing the Captain's hat) So as not to be deceived--look for this mark. In a tight spot, it will serve you like a beacon. Know which is which before you make for the justice of the peace to be married. Flavella My heart will tell me sooner than my eyes. Captain May Heaven today complete my fortune. Without you, I want nothing and renounce everything. Spruce Stop the compliments. When you are married, you will have leisure to do that. Remember, Urania is against you. Let Madame return home in peace for the moment. We must run to make the marriage contract. For now we are at the beginning of the end--or is it the end of the beginning? Anyway, we must finish. CURTAIN ACT III. The street again. Sometime later. Enter Jenny and Urania. Jenny I tell you truly, Madame, I don't believe you can find another man with such an evil heart. When I pressed him to return your portrait, he wanted to beat me. And, I believe he would have, if his valet, a man of softer disposition, hadn't diverted his rage. Oh, M'am, arm yourself with courage--follow your point, and be valiant. Pursue your rights. You have him in your power. You have his promise in writing. He'll have to make good on it. Urania If I don't make him, let Heaven punish me.