ARMSTRONG. You will pardon me, sir, I trust, for this intrusion. I
have reached this place with some danger, for these parts abound with
a set of fellows who have a fancy for wishing everybody else's skin
the colour of their own coats. Mr. Elsworth, my sense of duty has
compelled me to pursue a path which has estranged me from your
friendship. Let me ask frankly, sir, if it must separate me from one
who has honoured me with her consideration and affection?

ELSWORTH. You allude to my daughter--to Rose--

ARMSTRONG. I do, sir.

ELSWORTH. _Mister_ Armstrong--for I acknowledge no title bestowed by
an unlawful authority--I would rather wed my daughter to a Turk than
to one who had so forgotten his duty to his country.

[_Goes up_.--ARMSTRONG _bows_.

HARRY. Walter, we were friends once, but, as His Majesty's servant,
I can offer no compromise to a rebel. _Now_ you must not think of a
union with our family. [_Goes up_.

ROSE. This is nothing but blind prejudice. It has neither sense nor
justice. Hear me. That for which you discard him places him higher
in my esteem--shows me how worthy he is of the respect and honour of
every true woman. My greatest pride is that he to whom I have pledged
my hand wears those colours.

ARMSTRONG. Generous girl!