In the second place it is impossible.

Thirdly, Marzio will not attempt to carry out his threat." "Dear me! How simple you make it seem!" acclaimed the Signora Pandolfi, reviving at his first words, like a tired horse when he sees the top of the hill.
"But if papa should try and force me to it--what then ?" asked Lucia, who was not so easily satisfied.
"He cannot force you to it, my child--the law will not allow him to do so.

I told you so last night" "But the law is so far off--and he is so violent" answered the young girl.
"Never fear," said Don Paolo, reassuring her.

"I will manage it all.
These will be a struggle, perhaps; but I will make him see reason.

He had been with his friends last night, and his mind was excited; he was not himself.