90
[Act II
Robert
[Eagerly, intensely.] Richard, you have driven me up to this point. She and I have only obeyed your will. You yourself have roused these words in my brain. Your own words. Shall we? Freely? Together?
Richard
[Mastering his emotion.] Together no. Fight your part alone. I will not free you. Leave me to fight mine.
Robert
[Rises, decided.] You allow me, then?
Richard
[Rises also, calmly.] Free yourself.
[A knock is heard at the hall door.]
Robert
[In alarm.] What does this mean
Richard
[Calmly.] Bertha, evidently. Did you not ask her to come?
Robert
Yes, but . . . [Looking about him.] Then I am going, Richard.
Richard
No. I am going.
Robert
[Desperately.] Richard, I appeal to you. Let me go. It is over. She is yours. Keep her and forgive me, both of you.
Richard
Because you are generous enough to allow me?