Turning, he goes out, and slams the door. CLARE and MALISE remain face to face. Her lips have begun to quiver.
CLARE. Horrible!
She turns away, shuddering, and sits down on the edge of the armchair, covering her eyes with the backs of her hands. MALISE picks up the stick, and fingers it lovingly. Then putting it down, he moves so that he can see her face. She is sitting quite still, staring straight before her.
MALISE. Nothing could be better.
CLARE. I don't know what to do! I don't know what to do!
MALISE. Thank the stars for your good fortune.
CLARE. He means to have revenge on you! And it's all my fault.
MALISE. Let him. Let him go for his divorce. Get rid of him. Have done with him—somehow.
She gets up and stands with face averted. Then swiftly turning to him.
CLARE. If I must bring you harm—let me pay you back! I can't bear it otherwise! Make some use of me, if you don't mind!