Richard
Why, then?
Beatrice
Otherwise I could not see you.
[She looks at him for a moment and then turns aside quickly.]
Richard
[After a pause repeats uncertainly.] Otherwise you could not see me?
Beatrice
[Suddenly confused.] I had better go. They are not coming back. [Rising.] Mr Rowan, I must go.
Richard
[Extending his arms.] But you are running away. Remain. Tell me what your words mean. Are you afraid of me?
Beatrice
[Sinks back again.] Afraid? No.
Richard
Have you confidence in me? Do you feel that you know me?
Beatrice
[Again shyly.] It is hard to know anyone but oneself.
Richard
Hard to know me? I sent you from Rome the chapters of my book as I wrote them; and letters for nine long years. Well, eight years.
Beatrice
Yes, it was nearly a year before your first letter came.