VAN. Fastman, you are in love with the woman to whom, by a civil contract of society, I am united for life.
REBECCA. (aside to FASTMAN) Yes, it’s quite true—he’s her husband.
FAST. (aside) Her husband!
VAN. This woman has destroyed every possible link that bound me to her. Hear me curse her, Fastman! I repudiate her!—do you understand me, Fastman?—I repudiate her! Cut him out, Fastman—go in and win!—Cut him out. I request it of you as a favour—you’ll be doing me an immense service.
FAST. Cut who out.
VAN. A perfidious dealer in mahogany! That rascally interloper, Bobbins.
REBECCA. The good for nothing old fellow!
FAST. You amaze me! It’s incredible!
VAN. If he attempt to expostulate—mind, this is your answer—I have the authority of her husband.
FAST. But my dear sir, suppose—