_R._ Thou dost not know her, Because, I thank thee for it, thou dost not love her. And, friend, thy speech is gross; why the truth is There’s not a man or woman on God’s earth, However humble, mean, or ill-appearing, That hath not in his sight some grace and favour, Which angels see: but mortals overlook it, Being spiritually blind: for which affliction They have suffered half their shames, and slain the just. But Love, God’s gift, is spiritual sight; 1801 ’Tis the perception, which man lacks of all, Given him of one, to see as angels see. This is man’s marriage: and what now I love Is not, friend, what thou seest,—though thou mayst see A beauty unparallel’d,—but rather that Which by love’s gift I see: so say no more. _F._ Forgive me, Richard: ’tis a just rebuke. I did speak grossly. ’Tis that artist’s pride Of which you used to warn me: I will confess it. In my own case I am idealist 1811 At the price of all the world. If I believed I were as others, I should mock myself. I have not yet come to that. Now, in my excuse, Diana is sometimes laughable. _R._ And who Would not be laughable who had his way, Or if one set his humours on a throne? _F._ Well, you will rule her. Still there’s room to fear You may not win her. _R._ I doubt not to win: At least if you’ll be gone. _F._ Trust me to go. 1820 _Re-enter Diana with papers in hand. Laura and Flora._ _D._ Frederick! _F._ Your ladyship! _D._ This settlement Is but waste paper. Didst thou draw it thyself? _F._ I did, your ladyship. _D._ Then pray explain. _F._ If I have made any error.... _D._ Error, sir! The lady is here left wholly unprovided. And if Sir Gregory had not by good fortune Studied the terms, but trusted to thy skill, He had left his daughter penniless. _F._ There is full time To draw it afresh. I humbly crave your pardon For my mistake. _D._ Stay, I have more against thee. 1830 I will proceed in form. We have an audience: Stand upon thy defence. I am the plaintiff, The accuser; and, Ricardo, be thou judge. Hear all. This gentleman hath been my secretary Now for twelve months. In all my affairs I have set No limit to my trust: I have ever shewn him Absolute confidence: and yet how think you Hath he repaid me? He hath lied to me. I accuse him here to his face before you all. He said to-day he had been last night to Milan 1840 And brought me a letter, when he had never been there, And had not brought it. Contradict me, sir, If I say wrong. You hear he is silent. Now I say he forged that letter. _F._ Silence, my lady, Is the answer fittest for a charge too gross To be denied.