dame. [Aside.] She smiled upon me. The peril does not threaten me.
The Queen [still graciously.]I have to speak with you.
[She walks with him to the front of the stage.
Fabiani.And I, too, have to speak with you, Madame. I have to reproach you. To keep me away, to exile me for so long a time! Ah! 'twould not be so if, in the hours of absence, you thought of me as I think of you.
The Queen.You are unjust. Since you left me, I have thought of none but you.
Fabiani.Is it true? Am I so blessed? Say it once more.
The Queen [still smiling.]I swear it.
Fabiani.You love me then, as I love you?
The Queen.Yes, my lord.—Of a surety I have thought of none but you. And to such good purpose that I have arranged a pleasant surprise for your return.
Fabiani.A surprise!
The Queen.A meeting which will give you pleasure.
Fabiani.A meeting with whom?
The Queen.Guess.—You do not guess?
Fabiani.No, Madame.
The Queen.Turn your head.
[He turns and sees Jane on the threshold of the small door.
Fabiani [aside.]Jane!
Jane [aside.]'Tis he!
The Queen [still smiling.]My lord, know you this girl?
Fabiani.No, Madame.
The Queen.Girl, know you my lord?