don't believe it?

Bishop. I only wish the matter depended upon what I myself believe. But
it does not, Mrs. Falk.

Leonarda. But surely you will admit that one ought to do good even at
the risk of one's reputation?

Bishop. Undoubtedly.

Leonarda. Well, will your lordship not apply that maxim to yourself?
It is quite possible that for a while your congregation's faith in you
might be a little disturbed if you were to call upon me; but you know
now, from my own lips, that the rumours you have heard are false, and
that you ought rather to be all the more anxious to support me in what
I am trying to do. And in that way you will do a good turn to these two
young people, and to me, without driving me away. For some years now
I have lived only for others. One does not do that without making some
sacrifices, my lord--especially when, as in my case, one does not feel
that one's life is quite over.

Bishop. You look the picture of youth, Mrs. Falk!

Leonarda. Oh, no--still I have not done it without a struggle. And now I
want a little reward for it. Who would not? I want to spend my life with
those for whom I have sacrificed myself; I want to see their happiness
and make it mine. Do not rob me of that, my lord! It depends upon you!

Bishop. I do not quite see how it depends upon me.

Leonarda. It depends upon you for this reason; if my exile is to be the
price paid for her marriage, my niece will never consent to wed your
nephew.

Bishop. That would be very distressing to me, Mrs. Falk.

Leonarda. I made haste to come to you, before she should know anything
about it. I have brought your letter with me. Take it back, my lord!
(Searches in her pocket for the letter.)

Bishop (noticing her growing anxiety). What is wrong?

Leonarda. The letter!--I laid it on my desk while I dressed to come
out, meaning to bring it with me--but in my hurry and anxiety I have
forgotten it! And now Aagot is making out accounts at that very desk. If
she sees your handwriting she will suspect something at once, because of
course we have been expecting you every day.

Bishop. Well, I suppose there is nothing to be done?

Leonarda. Indeed there is. When she comes here--for she will understand
everything and come straight here--could not your lordship meet her
yourself, and say to her--. (Stops short.)

Bishop. Say what?

Leonarda. "I have been mistaken. People should be judged, not by their
mistakes, but by what they have achieved; n