Mrs. Cloys.
You don’t know what was really at the bottom of all my quarrels with your mother. I’ve no children. I’d have given the world if Theo had been mine.
Justina.
[A little bitterly.] Theo! Theo!
Mrs. Cloys.
[Taking her by the shoulder, almost shaking her.] You, too! [Kissing her.] Bless you, you’d have been better than nothing!
[She goes out. Justina stands, her lips parted, staring into space.
END OF THE FIRST ACT.
THE SECOND ACT
The Scene represents a room in Mr. Allingham’s cottage at Epsom. On the left-hand side is a fireplace, with a fire burning; above this is a door giving on to the hall; while below it is a similar door, over which hangs a portière, drawn aside, admitting to the dining-room. Facing us is a large open French window; and beyond is a view of a pretty garden with trees, laurels, etc. On the right, also facing us, but nearer, are a few balustered steps leading to an arched opening which is about three feet from the ground. The opening, across which runs a rod supporting a portière, admits to a small room, which, although containing no books that are visible, is called the library. All the furniture and accessories are characteristic of a well-to-do bachelor’s residence. It is twilight.