_D._ Then tell me by what means The letter came to thee. Still silent. I hope Thou dost mark that, Ricardo. _F._ In my defence I say I have served your ladyship as well As you have trusted me: and for this matter,— You gave me a letter for the Duke of Milan 1851 Requiring speedy answer. I procured That answer in good time. _D._ Ah, but thou saidst That thou thyself didst bear it, as I bade thee. Silent? Now here’s a secret; there’s some matter Withheld from me which I have a right to know. I have cause to think thou hast upon thy person The explanation. I would see what papers Thou carriest with thee. _F._ I have no papers, madam, Such as you look to find. _D._ Thou sayst that letter 1860 Was not a forgery. I wish to see If something which I think is in thy pocket Is not a forgery. _F._ If on first appearance Of having wronged you, you mistrust me thus, There is no cure. Demand my papers from me: I cannot take them back. _D._ I do demand them. _F._ You shall have everything in perfect order Before this evening. _D._ Stay! I wish to see What papers thou hast with thee. _F._ Very well. This is the only pocket in my dress; 1870 Here the contents. (_Offers a few letters._) _D._ Is that the only pocket? I thought there was another little pocket On the left side. _F._ (_aside_). Ah! ’tis that villain Tristram Hath told her this. _D._ What say you, sir? Is’t true? No answer. Now I think the explanation Lies in that pocket. If I am wrong, ’tis easy To prove me so. But if thou hast a secret.... _F._ I have a secret, and you are well informed I carry it on me. And to prove to all ’Tis of a private nature, I will shew it. 1880 ’Tis but this little case. (_Shews case of portrait._) _D._ A portrait-case? _F._ A portrait. _D._ Ah, then, now we have the truth: Thou art in love. This is the wondrous sickness That keeps thee at home when I would send thee forth: Distracted thee in drawing of the deed.... _F._ Enough, my lady; you have pushed this far enough. _D._ Oh no! I have now another charge of falsehood. I have long suspected this; and yesterday When I did ask thee if thou wert in love, Thou didst deny it. But thou dost not now— 1890 So tell me who the lady is. _L._ (_aside to R._). All’s lost! _F._ (_coming quite to front_). Your ladyship must grant me in private conduct Some liberty: my honest duty and service Never surrendered that, and should avail To spare me this ungenerous inquisition.