The Benefit of the Doubt; a Comedy in Three Acts

by Arthur Wing Pinero

Theophila.

[Irritably.] Oh, I am not going to appear quite a wreck before Mrs. Allingham. Find her, aunt.

[Mrs. Cloys goes out. Fraser brings a foot-stool to Theophila and places it under her feet. She nods in acknowledgment.

Fraser.

[Sarcastically.] You must not forget to thank Mrs. Allingham for taking her place by your bedside all last night.

Theophila.

[Indignantly.] Ah, it was shameful of aunt to have allowed that! She hid herself behind the curtains and peeped at me. She saw how ugly I was! I’ll never forgive aunt for permitting it! Oh——!

Fraser.

[Glancing at the door.] Sssh——!

[He walks away as Olive enters, followed by Mrs. Cloys. Olive is dressed as in the previous Act. Upon encountering Fraser she slightly inclines her head to him, with eyes averted; he bows stiffly. She then comes and stands before Theophila.