Dor. Geoffrey returned! and Geoffrey a stalwart mariner, and grown to man’s estate! I can scarce believe it! Of a truth I could weep for very joy! I was but a child when he left, and now—I am seventeen! Geoffrey loved children,—it may be that he will be displeased with me now that I am a woman. I am rejoiced that I am decked in my new gown—it is more seemly than the russet, in which, methinks, I did look pale. Geoffrey a man!—my old playmate a man! Pity that I have not my new shoes, for they are comely; but they do compress my feet, and so pain me sorely. Nevertheless, I will put them on, for it behoveth a maiden to be neatly apparelled at all seasons.
Enter Geoffrey.
Geof. Mistress Dorothy!
Dor. (turning—she starts). Geoffrey! Oh, Geoffrey! (She rushes towards him.)
Geof. Mistress Dorothy, I am right glad to hold thy little hand once more. I have had this moment in view for many, many months!
Dor. And I too, Master Geoffrey;—and oh, I am indeed rejoiced!
Geof. How thou art grown! A woman! By my right hand, a very woman!
Dor. Yes, Master Geoffrey, I am a woman now!
Geof. And a fair one, Mistress Dorothy! (She turns.) Nay, ’tis but truth; and truth is made to be told. May I not say that thou art fair?