Char. You stay in here. You must obey me. Stay, and let me keep them. (Exit into hall. The voices of many solders are heard, the noise of their boots on the porch. (Without)—So you have come to search the place?
[A wild sort of irony in her tone.
Winth. With your permission.
Char. (at the door). Oh, certainly. Come in, come in. Perhaps you think you'll find other of your friends?
Winth. Madam, my quickest way is to make the best of a bad business, for you must see my duty in this matter. My men, with your permission, must search your house and then your grounds.
Mrs. S. I have told you, sir, that no one can deny the right of conquest.
[Winthrop, white and silent, turns to the men.
Winth. Hopkins, will you conduct the search, as quickly and as quietly as possible?
Hop. As you say.