Ethel. [Whispers to Kitty and Mrs. Lorrimer.] How composed she is.
Mrs. Lorrimer. [Whispering back.] One would think she was a widow! I couldn't do better myself! [A short pause in the dialogue. Clergyman looks up and raises his voice a little, addressing the congregation in the church ... but not too loud so as to be too evident.
Clergyman. "If any man ... [A door is shut heavily off stage. At sound of door slam, Douglas exits and returns after Jeannette's entrance, going directly to Mrs. Wolton, who seems overcome.] can show just cause why these two persons should not lawfully be joined together ... [A commotion among the guests, who turn away from the altar, to look back into the church.] ... let him now speak. [Douglas goes top of aisle, to block the passage.] or else hereafter forever hold his peace...."
Jeannette enters, going to the foot of the chancel steps, cries "Stop!" She is a young and attractive looking woman, fashionably, but quietly dressed. All in the church are stunned. The groom, turning, sees her, and starts, but controls himself, glaring at Jeannette. Marion gazes in terror and horror at her; her bouquet drops unnoticed by her. Mrs. Wolton starts to leave her pew, but is held back and persuaded by Mrs. Fletcher to remain quietly where she is. Mr. Dawson steps down one step toward Jeannette.
Dawson. [To Jeannette.] Who are you?
Jeannette. [With a gesture toward Fletcher.] Ask him!
Dawson. What right have you to interrupt this ceremony?
Jeannette. [With a gesture as before.] Ask him!
Fletcher. She has no right! [Jeannette makes an exclamation of denial aloud.
Marion. Swear that, Ned, swear it to me before this altar.