[They look at each other steadily for a moment, neither yielding,]

VICAR. Then I accept the challenge! It is God and I against you,
Martha!

AUNTIE. God and I against you, William.

VICAR. So now—for my work!

AUNTIE [quietly]. Yes: what are you going to do?

VICAR. Three things.

AUNTIE. Yes—and they? . . .

VICAR. Tell Mary everything: send for my brother, Robert: and then—answer that monster in there.

AUNTIE [fearfully]. William, you would never dare! . . .

VICAR. Look! . . .