[They go behind a great rock half hidden by cedars. Bertrand enters below. Ardia steps out and stands before him. He kneels]
Ber. Spirit, hast come for me? I'll join thee, love,
When I have climbed this peak and met the sword
That sets my honor free.
Ard. Nay, rise, my lord.
Ber. [Rising] Thy living self? Here in the night alone?
Ard. Barca is here, and Gaina.
Ber. Sweet, the moon
Makes thee so fair.
Ard. [Smiling] Was I not always fair?
Ber. [Embracing her] My living love! Sit here,—and now thy story.
Ard. I'll shorten it to get to thine.
Ber. You had
The dagger that I sent you? [She shows it to him]
My sole gift
To love.