RICHARD. Just so, Sergeant. Well, I'm not ashamed of them: thank
you kindly for the apology. (He holds out his hands.)

SERGEANT (not availing himself of the offer). One gentleman to
another, sir. Wouldn't you like to say a word to your missis,
sir, before you go?

RICHARD (smiling). Oh, we shall meet again before--eh? (Meaning
"before you hang me.")

SERGEANT (loudly, with ostentatious cheerfulness). Oh, of course,
of course. No call for the lady to distress herself. Still--(in a
lower voice, intended for Richard alone) your last chance, sir.

They look at one another significantly for a moment. Than Richard
exhales a deep breath and turns towards Judith.

RICHARD (very distinctly). My love. (She looks at him, pitiably
pale, and tries to answer, but cannot--tries also to come to him,
but cannot trust herself to stand without the support of the
table.) This gallant gentleman is good enough to allow us a
moment of leavetaking. (The sergeant retires delicately and joins
his men near the door.) He is trying to spare you the truth; but
you had better know it. Are you listening to me? (She signifies
assent.) Do you understand that I am going to my death? (She
signifies that she understands.) Remember, you must find our
friend who was with us just now. Do you understand? (She
signifies yes.) See that you get him safely out of harm's way.
Don't for your life let him know of my danger; but if he finds it
out, tell him that he cannot save me: they would hang him; and