You: It’s just this, and I don’t care whether or not I offend you. In fact, I hope I do. Someone ought to offend you now and then. You’re committing a crime, not only against us but against yourself. If I had my way—and I’m not being selfish, either—
She (blazing): As though any of you weren’t selfish!
You: What?
She: I’m so tired of it all. Don’t you think I hear something like this every day of my life? All of you working for yourselves, arguing for yourselves, talking eternally about the same thing. I can’t stand any more of it. I’m sick of it.
You (gravely): I beg your pardon, but you’re not being quite polite, are you? You’re a bit unjust.
She: Perhaps I’m rather excited. Sorry.
You: Perhaps not. This is the result of a long silence, isn’t it? You have never spoken like this before?
She: Yes, that’s it.
You (leaning forward): My dear, if I’ve said anything....
She (faintly): No, it’s nothing. Tell me, how can you—all of you—be so cold blooded and unfastidious at the same time?