I want you to say that you forgive me the vile thing I would have done, Hortensia." Contrition quivered in his lowered voice.
He bent a knee to her, and held out his hand.

"I will not rise until you speak my pardon, child." "Why, if that be all, I pardon you very readily," she answered, still betraying no emotion.
He frowned.

"Too readily!" he cried.

"Too readily for sincerity.

I will not take it so." "Indeed, my lord, for a penitent, you are very difficult to please.