Nio. (clinging to Dunn as she recoils from Helen, to L. of Dunn) Petramos! I ask protection from this Medusa!
Dunn. Of course! Yes! Helen, you’re too severe.
Nio. (L. C., rising) Helen! Ah! Like her of Troy, at whom the finger of scandal pointed. (pose, as if denouncing Helen)
Hel. It is false! The story is untrue!
Car. Be calm, Helen!
Dunn turns up C., back to audience, shaking with laughter.
Hel. (R. C.) How dare you hint at scandal against me; but such innuendos will not deter me. Peter! This woman leaves this house, or I do!
Nio. (L. C.) Then there is little doubt which of us two will go. He’d sooner fifty fold, that I should stay.
Dunn. (turning round C.) I must endorse that truism, if it ruins me. I would! Damme! there! (turns again up stage)
Hel. Caroline, you hear!