[She sinks by the desk, crushing the letter in her hand. She looks over at him, and then down at the letter, and then back at him.

Austin. Maggie!

Jinny. [Rising suddenly. She speaks with a voice trembling with only half-contained emotion and passion.] I told her to wait in the hall; may I read it?

[Holding out her hand for the letter.

Austin. Now look here, Jinny,—I always let you read everything, don't I?

Jinny. [Hiding his letter behind her back.] Yes. [Holding out her other hand.] Give it to me!

Austin. Now begin to show that you really are going to turn over a new leaf, and that your love is going to have perfect confidence, and don't ask to see this letter.

Jinny. But I do ask to see it!

Austin. Then this time I must refuse you!

Jinny. What! is it even more compromising than your letter to her?