He has finished and addressed his letter, so he goes out with it. frances lifts her head. These two are in accord and can speak their feelings without disguise or preparation.
frances. Julia, Julia . . isn't it unbelievable?
mrs. farrant. I'd give . . oh, what wouldn't I give to have it undone!
frances. I knew he meant to . . and yet I thought I had his promise. If he really meant to . . I couldn't have stopped it, could I?
mrs. farrant. Walter sent to tell me and I sent round to . . .
frances. Walter came soon after, I think. Julia, I was in my room . . it was nearly breakfast time . . when I heard the shot. Oh . . don't you think it was cruel of him?
mrs. farrant. He had a right to. We must remember that.
frances. You say that easily of my brother . . you wouldn't say it of your husband.
They are apart by this. julia farrant goes to her gently.