SISTER. Will you let her bring someone into the house who'll destroy you? If you only knew how I hate that man.
DOCTOR. I do. His last book's terrible; and shows a certain lack of mental balance.
SISTER. They ought to shut him up.
DOCTOR. Many people have said so, but I don't think him bad enough.
SISTER. Because you're eccentric yourself, and live in daily contact with a woman who's mad.
DOCTOR. I admit abnormality has always had a strong attraction for me, and originality is at least not commonplace. (The syren of a steamer is heard.) What was that?
SISTER. Your nerves are on edge. It's only the steamer. (Pause.) Now, I implore you, go away!
DOCTOR. I ought to want to; but I'm held fast. (Pause.) From here I can see his portrait in my study. The sunlight throws a shadow on it that changes it completely. It makes him look like.... Horrible! You see what I mean?
HATER. The devil! Come away!
DOCTOR. I can't.