frances. It's true enough . . it's true of men towards women. You can't think of them through generations as one thing and then suddenly find them another.

trebell. [Hammering at his fixed idea.] She should have brought that child into the world.

frances. You didn't love her enough!

trebell. I didn't love her at all.

frances. Then why should she value your gift?

trebell. For its own sake.

frances. [Turning away.] It's hopeless . . you don't understand.

trebell. [Helpless; almost like a deserted child.] I've been trying to . . all through the night.

frances. [Turning back enlightened a little.] That's more the trouble then than the Cabinet question?

He shakes himself to his feet and begins to pace the room; his keenness coming back to him, his brow knitting again with the delight of thought.