Volume II Part 42 (1/2)

ELINOR

Ah, well, forgive me, Robin. I'll save you yet From all these troubles of your outlawry!

Trust me--for I can wind my poor Prince John Around my little finger. Who knows--with me To help you--there are but my two sons' lives That greatly hinder it--why, yourself might reign Upon the throne of England.

ROBIN

Are you so wrapped In treacheries, helplessly false, even to yourself, That now you do not know falsehood from truth, Darkness from light?

ELINOR

O Robin, I was true At least to you. If I were false to others, At least I--

ROBIN

No--not that--that sickening plea Of truth in treachery. Treachery cannot live With truth. The soul wherein they are wedded dies Of leprosy.

ELINOR

[_Coming closer to him._]

Have you no pity, Robin, No kinder word than this for the poor creature That crept--Ah, feel my heart, feel how it beats!

No pity?

ROBIN

Five years ago this might have moved me!

ELINOR

No pity?

ROBIN

None. There is no more to say.

My men shall guide you safely through the wood.

ELINOR

I never forgive!

[_Enter MARIAN from the cave; she stands silent and startled._]

ROBIN

My men shall guide you back.

[_Calls._]

Ho, there, my lads!

[_Enter several of the OUTLAWS._]

This lady needs a guide Back thro' the wood.