Sterling. Thank you, thank you!
[He takes the box of tablets out of the envelope.
Blanche. [Going to him.] You don't realize why I've told you all this!
Sterling. [Counting out the tablets.] One, two. To give me hope! To give me hope!
[He empties the other ten tablets into the envelope, twists it up, and throws it in the fireplace.
Blanche. No, no, just the opposite!
Sterling. Then you've defeated your end, dear; you will stay here with me.
Blanche. [Trying to make him realize the exact position.] Opposite you at the table, receiving our friends, keeping up appearances, yes—but nearer to you than that? No! Never!
Sterling. But you will stay?
[Leonard enters from Left.