MAR. I can understand—that is the one you like better, is it? Well, never mind, dear, don’t be afraid of your husband meeting him—they won’t fight, will they? and if they do, what o’ that? People that fight are often the best friends in the world when it’s all over.
BLEN. If you request me to leave the house, I can only obey.
MAR. No, no, you mustn’t go—take him to your husband and say right out, “My dear, this is my old sweetheart, and you must not be jealous, and though I did like him once, what o’ that? I’m your wife now, and he can only be a friend, and there’s no harm in a friend coming to see me.” Be upright and downright, my dear—it’s the best way—for where there’s nothing concealed nothing can pop out.
LADY P. There are positions that exact great discretion from us—that absolutely render concealment a necessity, if only to avoid those explanations and confessions that must lead to mortification, if not to unhappiness.
BLEN. May I not exchange one word with you?
LADY P. If you will then immediately leave me, defer your visit here till another day, and not expose me to an embarrassment that will be most painful. Where’s my lord?
MAR. I don’t know, aunt—he’s somewhere about.
LADY P. In the house?
MAR. I think so—talking over the state of the nation with my husband.
LADY P. I must seek him instantly. (to BLENHEIM) Pray do not follow me. (to MARGERY) Say nothing of this meeting, I beg.