Hel. (putting Dunn back, he falls into chair) Let Mr. Tompkins first hear the opinion of the ladies, whose sense of delicacy he has outraged.
Tomp. (C.) What’s the matter, Dunn?
Dunn. Nothing! Nothing! Don’t take any notice.
Hel. He must take notice, and apologize to ladies of irreproachable character—though it is scarcely to be expected from one so utterly depraved.
Tomp. I haven’t an idea what I’m supposed to have done, but few of us have past lives, wholly free from blame. Even you, Miss Griffin, may have something to regret.
Hel. What dare you insinuate? It is not true! Who could have told you? I—I——
Dunn. It’s right! It’s right! Tompkins has found it all out—Helen’s down—and I can’t triumph—I haven’t a crow left in me. (goes up L. to fire C.)
Hel. Even for your sake Carrie, I cannot remain here to be insulted.
Car. Is not Corney here to protect you? (comes down R. C.)
Corn. To be sure, tricks of this kind won’t help you, Tompkins, and we must ask you to take her away, if you have not the decency to apologise for her presence.