How strange! Dear cousin! Sir! I wish'd to see you,
Needing protection--nay! I was to blame,
Too hasty, you must think me bold indeed!

_Arth._ [_Aside_] Is all her nature, art?--How beautiful!
[_Aloud._] Dear Florence. [_Attempts to take her hand warmly,
she bows._] I have scarcely words to speak.
Cousin! I'll be your champion. [_Aloud._]

_Flor._ There is nought
In which you can assist me? I have come
Here, cousin, to entreat you, take this money.
Indeed, you can repay me quite soon, when
Your brother is more just. It is for him
That I would give it--

_Arth._ For him? yes! you are
Betroth'd?

_Flor._ My father wills so--

_Arth._ I need not
This money--

_Flor._ Cousin, take it. You are proud.
Will you refuse me?

_Arth._ 'Tis my character
To doubt your sex, and yet from you I'd take it,
But that I need it not in truth.