alice. Yes, I expect a man to be a good citizen. And you don't even eat properly.
With that she completes the accusation and edward searches round for a defence.
edward. Alice, it was always an effort with me to do all those things . . and lately every effort has had to go to my work.
alice. You did them . . on principle.
edward. Don't laugh at me.
alice. [whispering the awful words.] Then truthfully, Edward, once upon a time you were a bit of a prig.
edward. [with enough sense of humour to whisper back.] Was I?
alice. I'm afraid so! But the prig fell ill when your father died . . and had to be buried in his grave. [Then her voice rises stirringly.] Oh, don't you see what a blessing this cursed work was meant to be to you? Why must you stand stiff against it?
edward. [without a smile now.] But lately, Alice, I've hardly known myself. Once or twice I've lost my temper . . I've been brutal.
alice. That's the best news in the world. There's your own wicked nature coming out. That's what we've been waiting for . . that's what we want. That's you.