Kate. What do you say? Do you mean (staggers back against table for support)—can it be that it was to him—to Eugene that you then referred?
Liz. To whom else? It was of course Eugene.
Kate. Eugene! Oh, what a cruel mistake! Oh, what a wrong I have done a noble man! Heaven forgive me!
Eug. (going to her). Dear Kate, what is the matter? what do you mean?
Kate. Do not ask me; dear, forget what I have said. It is all right now—yes! all right now! Eugene—Lizzie—you do not need tell me anymore. I understand (joins their hands); I am very glad, and now will you please leave me? I—I would like to be alone.
Liz. You are not offended?
Kate. Offended? no indeed, child. I am sure you have both acted for the best.
Eug. Dear Kate, with the help of my sister and my wife, I hope I may one day be what I once thought I was—a man! (Exit, C., with Lizzie, who comes back to kiss Kate, then exit.)
Kate. Can it be true? Has the heavy load that has lain on my heart, at the bottom of all the other loads that have lain there of late, really gone? Yes—gone—all gone! Will he, can he forgive me? I must see him at once! (Rings bell.) How could I for a moment mistrust him?
(Enter Jennie, C.)