AMOS. In what way?
GERTRUDE. I want you to join me in persuading Mrs. Ebbsmith—my friend, Mrs. Ebbsmith—to come to Ketherick with me.
AMOS. My dear sister—!
GERTRUDE. [Firmly.] Please, Amos!
AGNES. Stop a moment! Mr. Winterfield, your sister doesn't in the least understand how matters are with me. I am returning to England, but with Mr. Cleeve. [Recklessly.] Oh, you'd hear of it eventually! He is reconciled to his wife.
GERTRUDE. Oh—! Then, surely, you—!
AGNES. No. The reconciliation goes no further than mere outward appearances. He relies upon me as much as ever. [Beating her hands together passionately.] He can't spare me—can't spare me!
AMOS. [In a low voice to GERTRUDE.] Are you satisfied?
GERTRUDE. I suspected something of the kind. [Going to AGNES, gripping her wrist tightly.] Pull yourself out of the mud! Get up out of the mud!
AGNES. I have no will to—no desire to!