BEATRICE.
Because it was my cousin who urged Mr Rowan always to come back. I have that on my conscience.
BERTHA.
It should be on Mr Hand’s conscience, should it not?
BEATRICE.
[Uncertainly.] On mine, too. Because—I spoke to my cousin about Mr Rowan when he was away and, to a certain extent, it was I...
BERTHA.
[Nods slowly.] I see. And that is on your conscience. Only that?
BEATRICE.
I think so.
BERTHA.
[Almost cheerfully.] It looks as if it was you, Miss Justice, who brought my husband back to Ireland.
BEATRICE.
I, Mrs Rowan?
BERTHA.
Yes, you. By your letters to him and then by speaking to your cousin as you said just now. Do you not think that you are the person who brought him back?
BEATRICE.
[Blushing suddenly.] No. I could not think that.
BERTHA.
[Watches her for a moment; then turning aside.] You know that my husband is writing very much since he came back.