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II]

Look here, Richard. We have said all there is to be said. Let the past be past.

[Quickly and harshly.] Wait. One thing more. For you, too, must know me as I am—now.

More? Is there more?

I told you that when I saw your eyes this afternoon I felt sad. Your humility and confusion, I felt, united you to me in brotherhood. [He turns half round towards him.] At that moment I felt our whole life together in the past, and I longed to put my arm around your neck.

[Deeply and suddenly touched.] It is noble of you, Richard, to forgive me like this.

[Struggling with himself.] I told you that I wished you not to do anything false and secret against me—against our friendship, against her; not to steal her from me, craftily, secretly, meanly—in the dark, in the night—you, Robert, my friend.

I know. And it was noble of you.

[Looks up at him with a steady gaze.] No. Not noble. Ignoble.

[Makes an involuntary gesture.] How? Why?