Robert monologue — Exiles: A Play in Three Acts

[_Bravely._] Until I had come to like her more and more (because I can assure you it is only a lightheaded idea of mine), to like her deeply, to love her. Would you have spoken to me then as you have just now? [_Richard is silent. Robert goes on more boldly._] It would have been different, would it not? For then it might have been too late while it is not too late now. What could I have said then? I could have said only: You are my friend, my dear good friend. I am very sorry but I love her. [_With a sudden fervent gesture._] I love her and I will take her from you, however I can, because I love her.