“If ever my father returns, and it shall be his pleasure, I shall obey, as I did when I consented to give my hand to your son…”

It seems that Isabella has a father, but what kind of a father is he? He was not there for her “espousals” and she was delivered into Manfred’s hand by her “guardians” who did not notice that Manfred is a villain. Do not forget there is Young Peasant who has already vowed to die in her defense…someone must help her fend off Manfred so he cannot indulge his horrid hope!