beatrice. [sweetly.] Don't you?
booth. [intensely serious.] Beatrice, your callousness shocks me! That you can dream of deserting Hugh . . a man of all others who requires constant care and attention.
beatrice. May I remark that the separation is as much Hugh's wish as mine?
booth. I don't believe that.
beatrice. [her eyebrows up.] Really!
booth. I don't imply that you're lying. But you must know that it's Hugh's nature to wish to do anything that he thinks anybody wishes him to do. All my life I've had to stand up for him . . and by Jove, I'll continue to do so.
edward. [from the depths of his armchair.] If you'd taught him to stand up for himself—
The door is flung almost off its hinges by hugh who then stands stamping and pale green with rage.
hugh. Look here, Booth . . I will not have you interfering with my private affairs. Is one never to be free from your bullying?
booth. You ought to be grateful.