PIKE

[gravely]

I did.[pg 172]

LADY CREECH

Don't you see, don't you hear that—he's consented? He didn't mumble his words—don't you hear him?

ETHEL

I do, and disbelieve my own ears. Yesterday, when I wanted something I thought of value—and that was a name—he refused to let me buy it—to-day, when I know that that name is less than nothing, worse than nothing—he bids me give my fortune for it. What manner of man is this! And you,

[to LADY CREECH and ALMERIC]

what are you that after last night you come to me and ask a settlement?

LADY CREECH