G. (Insolently.) You couldn't while I am alive. (Aside.) If
that doesn't bring her pride to her rescue, nothing will.
MRS. H. (Drawing herself up.) Couldn't do it? I' (Softening.)
You're right. I don't believe I could-though you are what you are-a
coward and a liar in grain.
CAPT. G. It doesn't hurt so much after your little lecture-with
demonstrations.
MRS. H. One mass of vanity! Will nothing ever touch you in this
life? There must be a Hereafter if it's only
for the benefit of-But you will have it all to yourself.
CAPT. G. (Under his eyebrows.) Are you certain of that?
MRS. H. I shall have had mine in this life; and it will serve me
right,
CAPT. G. But the admiration that you insisted on so strongly a
moment ago? (Aside.) Oh, I am a brute!
MRS. H. (Fiercely.) Will that con-sole me for knowing that you
will go to her with the same words, the same arguments, and
the-the same pet names you used to me? And if she cares for you,
you two will laugh over my story. Won't that be punishment heavy
enough even for me-even for me?-And it's all useless. That's
another punishment.
CAPT. G. (Feebly.) Oh, come! I'm not so low as you think.
MRS.
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