RAVENSBANE [With gentle courtesy.] Master Dickonson is my tutor.
JUSTICE MERTON And why has thy mother— Ah, I know well; I deserve all. But yet, it must not be published now! I am a justice now, an honoured citizen—and my young niece— Thy mother will not demand so much; she will be considerate; she will ask some gold, of course, but she will show pity!
RAVENSBANE My mother is the Marchioness of Rickby.
JUSTICE MERTON Yes, yes; ’twas well planned, a clever trick. ’Twas skilful of her. But surely thy mother gave thee commands to—
RAVENSBANE My mother gave me her blessing.
JUSTICE MERTON Ah, ’tis well then. Young man, my son, I too will give thee my blessing, if thou wilt but go—go instantly—go with half my fortune, go away forever, and leave my reputation unstained.
RAVENSBANE Go away? [Starting for the study door.] Ah, sir, with much pleasure.
JUSTICE MERTON You will go? You will leave me my honour—and my Rachel?
RAVENSBANE Rachel? Rachel is yours? No, no, Mistress Rachel is mine. We are ours.
JUSTICE MERTON [Pleadingly.] Consider the disgrace.