frances. [Gentle and ironic.] Have you ever, for one moment, thought in that sense of anyone else?
trebell. Is that a complaint?
frances. The first in ten years' housekeeping.
trebell. No, I never have . . but I've never thought selfishly either.
frances. That's a paradox I don't quite understand.
trebell. Until women do they'll remain where they are . . and what they are.
frances. Oh, I know you hate us.
trebell. Yes, dear sister, I'm afraid I do. And I hate your influence on men . . compromise, tenderness, pity, lack of purpose. Women don't know the values of things, not even their own value.
For a moment she studies him, wonderingly.
frances. I'll take up the counter-accusation to-morrow. Now I'm tired and I'm going to bed. If I may insult you by mothering you, so should you. You look tired and I've seldom seen you.