Mrs. Wolton. [Who has gained control of herself.] But I don't understand how it was his money—
Dawson. [Interrupts.] At the time of your husband's death a large sum of money was needed to keep his wrong-doing from being made public. I took Fletcher into my confidence, and he lent us this sum.
Marion. You should have told me.
Dawson. I wanted to save you.
Marion. No! no! It was placing me in a terribly false position. It was placing all of us! Well, I take the debt now on my shoulders! Between us three we will manage to pay it up in time—I am ready to give up the rest of my life to it. [Crosses to Fletcher.] Don't be afraid, you will be paid!
Fletcher. And you still persist in your refusal to marry me?
Marion. Yes! Yes! Yes!! A thousand times now more than ever.
Fletcher. And do you think all those years you are trying to scrape up the money, I'll hold my tongue? I don't care about the money, I only care about you.—If I can't have you, do you think I'm going to accept the disgrace you helped heap upon me yesterday? Not I, if I know it! Throw me over, and I'll make public your father's record—every dishonest bit of it! [Strikes table.
Mrs. Wolton. [Cries out.] No! No! [Crosses to Dawson.
Dawson. You dare threaten?