Frances. A woman must choose what her interpretation of life is to be ... as a man must too in his way ... as you and I have chosen, Henry.
Trebell. [Asking from real interest in her.] Was yours a deliberate choice and do you never regret it?
Frances. [Very simply and clearly.] Perhaps one does nothing quite deliberately and for a definite reason. My state has its compensations ... if one doesn't value them too highly. I've travelled in thought over all this question. You mustn't blame a woman for wishing not to bear children. But ... well, if one doesn't like the fruit one mustn't cultivate the flower. And I suppose that saying condemns poor Amy ... condemned her to death ... [Then her face hardens as she concentrates her meaning.] and brands most men as ... let's unsentimentally call it illogical, doesn't it?
He takes the thrust in silence.
Trebell. Did you notice the light in my window as you came in?
Frances. Yes ... in both as I got out of the cab. Do you want the curtains drawn back?
Trebell. Yes ... don't touch them.
He has thrown himself into his chair by the fire. She lapses into thought again.
Frances. Poor little woman.
Trebell. [In deep anger.] Well, if women will be little and poor....