[_Bitterly._] That's right--that's more like you!
MRS. WESTERN. We gain nothing by abusing each other. And I didn't
interrupt _you._ Let's look facts in the face. Here we are, we two--tied.
HARVEY. [_With a groan._] Yes.
MRS. WESTERN. With our two children. If it weren't for them.... Well,
we've _got_ to remain together. Now there's this girl. It's quite evident,
after what you've said, that she can't stop here--
HARVEY. [_Jumping to his feet._] She shall!
MRS. WESTERN. [_Fretfully._] Oh, do be a man, and drop this mawkish
sentiment! You say she's fond of you--you've _made_ her fond of you. Was
this a very pretty thing--for a man of your age to do?
HARVEY. [_Sullenly, as he drops back into his chair._] Never mind my age.
MRS. WESTERN. Very well then--for a married man?
HARVEY. An unhappy man.
MRS. WESTERN. Even granting that--though if you're unhappy it's your own
fault--I've always been urging you to go on the County Council--What's
to become of the girl, if she stops here?
HARVEY. [_Desperately._] I don't know--but I can't let her go--I tell you
I can't!
MRS. WESTERN. [_Scarcely able to conceal her disgust._] Oh, if you knew
how painful it is to hear you whining like this! It's pitiable, really! In
the girl's own interest--how can she stop?
HARVEY. She must. I can't let her be turned out. It would break her heart.
MRS. WESTERN. [_Turning right round, and staring at him._] What?
HARVEY. [_Doggedly._] Yes--it would. She's very fond of me, that's the
truth.
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