Dol. [Looks at card. Aside.] Ralph Murdell?—the devil! [To Ralph.] Well, I thought you were either a Paul Pry or a villainous rascal!
Ralph. [Turns suddenly.] What did you say?
Dol. I say we are often mistaken. [Crosses to R. Aside.] I’ll keep my eyes on you, my fine bird. [Exit R. 2 E.]
Ralph. [Looking around.] Where is Hilda? I did not like the look in her eye! I must be careful, or she will upset all my plans. She comes.
Enter Hilda, R. 2 E.
Ralph. You are late!
Hil. I am, sir! but not too late for what I have to say. Think you I will stand calmly by and witness your villainy and allow you to deceive another as you have basely deceived me? No! If I am not your wife in law, I am in the sight of Heaven, and I dare you to make another victim.
Ralph. [L., aside.] I must pacify her somehow. [To Hilda.] Hilda! [Takes her hand and leads her to bench L. 3 E. Enter Adrienne in background R. 5 E. She listens behind statue L. 4 E.] I have repented saying those harsh words. I did not mean it. It was in anger I spoke.
Hil. Oh, Ralph! if I could only believe you.
Ralph. You can; and if you could but look into my heart you would know that you, and you only, are the one for whom its pulses beat.