[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?
ROBERT.
[Hotly.] Richard, you will make me angry with you if you say that.
RICHARD.
Angry or not, I will not live on your generosity. You have asked her to meet you here tonight and alone. Solve the question between you.
ROBERT.
[Promptly.] Open the door. I shall wait in the garden. [He goes towards the porch.] Explain to her, Richard, as best you can. I cannot see her now.