Mrs. Denham.
Phrases, phrases, always phrases! When I am most in earnest you put me off with a jest.
Denham.
"If I laugh at any mortal thing, 'tis that I may not weep."
Mrs. Denham.
(sobbing) I know I have disappointed you; I know you are not satisfied with me; I have not made you happy.
Denham.
(starting up and pacing) Happy? Give me life! Give me life! Happiness can take care of itself. But there is no use in crying "Give, give!" like the horse-leech. If we want impossibilities we must achieve them. (Crosses r.)
Mrs. Denham.
You want incompatible things.