Well,
What is it you wish me to do?

ALFRED.

You must tell
Matilda, I meant to have call'd--to leave word--
To explain--but the time was so pressing--

JOHN.

My lord,
Your lordship's obedient! I really can't do . . .

ALFRED.

You wish then to break off my marriage?

JOHN.

No, no!
But indeed I can't see why yourself you need take
These letters.

ALFRED.

Not see? would you have me, then, break
A promise my honor is pledged to?

JOHN (humming).