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[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?

[Mastering his emotion.] Together no. Fight your part alone. I will not free you. Leave me to fight mine.

[Rises, decided.] You allow me, then?

[Rises also, calmly.] Free yourself.

[In alarm.] What does this mean

[Calmly.] Bertha, evidently. Did you not ask her to come?

Yes, but [Looking about him.] Then I am going, Richard.

No. I am going.

[Desperately.] Richard, I appeal to you. Let me go. It is over. She is yours. Keep her and forgive me, both of you.

Because you are generous enough to allow me?