booth. [determined to capture the conversation again.] Has made a . . ?
edward. Will make . . if you understand that better, Booth.
booth. I don't understand it at all. [they leave him the field.] And why for no earthly reason we must suddenly open up a—a street, which is very painful . . I really cannot see. One never knows who may be listening. [he glances most uneasily towards the door and drops his voice.] In that unhappy business, Edward, you very wisely did what we all felt to be your duty. I'm sure we all hope you have succeeded in your endeavours. But the least we can do now in respect to our poor father's memory is to bury the matter in—in decent oblivion. And please . . please don't talk of prison. I thought you'd given up that idea long ago. [having dismissed that subject unopposed, he takes a long breath.] Now we will return to the original subject of discussion. Hugh, this question of a separation—
Past all patience, hugh jumps up and flings his chair back to its place.
hugh. Beatrice and I mean to separate. And nothing you may say will prevent us. The only difficulty in the way is money. Can we command enough to live apart comfortably?
booth. Well?
hugh. Well . . we can't.
booth. Well?
hugh. So we can't separate.
booth. [speaking with bewilderment.] Then what in Heaven's name have we been discussing it for?