Mrs. P. P., what are you doing?
Pet. Nothing, dear, nothing; sit still. I’ll fetch a light.
[Exit.
Frank. Is it really your wish that I should continue my attentions? (Getting close to her.) Gad, she’s a fine woman, and I never in my life could be in the dark with one, without giving her a kiss; and, encouraged as I am, who could resist?
[Attempts to kiss her.
Mrs. P. Don’t, don’t; I won’t allow it; how can you be so foolish? (Kisses her, and blacks his nose.) Go away: here’s P. (Lights up; Frank returns to his chair as P. enters, stands between them moonstruck at seeing Frank’s face; he trembles, places one candle on the table, and seizes Mrs. P.’s arm.)
Pet. Woman, look at that man—look at his nose. Now go to your room—to the glass, and look at your own! come, madam, come.
[He drags her off.
Frank. Very strange conduct; however, my poor friend is severely punished for the pains he has taken to test his wife’s constancy....
In the dénouement the position of Mrs. P. and Frank is explained: