Irene.
No—it means that she has just heard from Lord Dangars that he is an old and intimate friend of your husband’s, and that they chanced to come together again two days ago in Rome.
Leslie.
I am grieved to pain you, Irene, but I am sure that my husband can’t be aware of the true character of Lord Dangars.
Irene.
Possibly not, but my mother sees that Lord Dangars may hear of her conduct through Mr. Renshaw, and is therefore anxious to conciliate you without delay.
Leslie.
Oh! [She tears Mrs. Stonehay’s letter into pieces.]
Irene.
Oh, Leslie, the meanness of my life is crushing me! I can’t be faithful to my mother, and yet I loathe myself for being a traitor to her. I seem to bring a worldly taint even into your home, and yet your home is so sweet and pure to me that I haven’t the courage to shut myself out of it. How you must despise me!