He'll never look at you again, and I don't blame him! I'm a man; I know. We don't respect women who sell out so cheap.

Ernest

You lie! [All turn, astounded. Helen runs toward Ernest with a cry of joy. John starts to block her. To John.] Stop! You're not fit to touch her. No man is.

John

[with a sarcastic laugh]

Humph! I suppose that's why you ran away.

Ernest

Yes. To protect her from myself.

John

Then why come back?