BARON. I have just admitted the charge of adultery and have advanced as extenuating circumstances, partly that it was the result of pressing need when, after ten years of married life, I suddenly found myself unmarried, and partly that it was done with the consent of the Baroness herself. As I have now come to believe that all this was a trap set to make a case against me, it is my duty, for the sake of my son, to hold back no further——
BARONESS. [Exclaims instinctively] Axel!
BARON. What caused me to break my marital vows was the faithlessness of the Baroness.
JUDGE. Baron, can you prove that the Baroness has been faithless to you?
BARON. No! For I was concerned about the honour of the family, and I destroyed all proofs that I obtained. But I still venture to believe that, in this matter, the Baroness will stand by the confession she once made to me.
JUDGE. Baroness, do you admit this offence as preceding and, therefore, probably causing the lapse of the Baron?
BARONESS. No!
JUDGE. Are you willing to repeat under oath that you are innocent of this charge?
BARONESS. Yes!
BARON. Good heavens! No, she must not do that! No perjury for my sake!