Beat. Signora Clarice, I beg you— Clar. Stand away, and do not dare to importune me. Beat. So severe with him who is your destined husband? Clar. They may drag me by force to the altar, but you will have only my hand, never my heart. Beat. You disdain me, but I hope to appease you. Clar. I shall abhor you to all eternity. Beat. If you knew me, you would not say so. Clar. I know you well enough as the destroyer of my happiness. Beat. But I have the means of comforting you. Clar. You deceive yourself; there is no one but Silvio who can comfort me. Beat. 'Tis true, I cannot give you the same comfort as your Silvio might, but I can at least contribute to your happiness. Clar. I think it is already enough, sir, that though I speak to you as harshly as possible, you should continue