DICKON So then, dear friends, this strange incident is happily elucidated. The pain and contumely have fallen most heavily upon my dear lord and master, but you are witnesses, even now, of his silent and Christian forgiveness of your suspicions. Bygones, therefore, be bygones. The future brightens—with orange-blossoms! Hymen and Felicity stand with us here ready to unite two amorous and bashful lovers. His lordship is reticent; yet to you alone, of all beautiful ladies, Mistress Rachel—
RAVENSBANE [In a mighty voice.] Silence!
DICKON My lord would—
RAVENSBANE Silence! Dare not to speak to her!
DICKON [Biting his lip.] My babe is weaned.
RACHEL [Still at Richard’s side.] Oh, my lord, if I have made you suffer—
RICHARD [Appealingly.] Rachel!
RAVENSBANE [Approaching her, raises one arm to screen his face.] Gracious lady! let fall your eyes; look not upon me. If I have dared remain in your presence, if I dare now speak once more to you, ’tis because I would have you know—O forgive me!—that I love you.
RICHARD Sir! This lady has renewed her promise to be my wife.
RAVENSBANE Your wife, or not, I love her.