Mr Sullivan, as soon as he was satisfied that the colonel was shut out, immediately repaired to his wife's dressing-room, where he found her reading.
"Madam," said he, fixing his eyes sternly on her, "I have been informed of what took place last night."
"I'm sure I do not know what that was," replied the lady, coolly, "except that you were very tipsy."
"Granted, madam; you took advantage of it; and your conduct—"
"My conduct, Mr Sullivan!" replied his wife, kindling with anger.
"Yes, Mrs Sullivan, your conduct. A married woman, madam, who allows gentlemen—"
"Gentlemen, Mr Sullivan! I allow no gentleman but yourself. Are you sure that you are quite sober?"
"Yes, madam, I am; but this affected coolness will not avail you: deny, if you can, that Colonel Ellice did not last night—"
"Well, then, I do deny it. Neither Colonel Ellice nor any other man ever did—"
"Did what, madam?" interrupted the husband in a rage.