Is it anything to do with Mr. Gunning?
Miss Woodward.
Nothing at all. How could it be?
Parbury.
Miss Woodward, I don’t like to press you, but this general cloud of mystery is seriously affecting my nerves. At least tell me—I make it a personal favour—the cause of the quarrel between my wife and you.
Miss Woodward.
It’s impossible! Mrs. Parbury may tell you after I’ve gone. I’d rather you despised me then than now.
Parbury.
[Wonderingly.] Despise you?
[Their eyes meet. Pause.