Lord Town. No, let me not (though I this moment cast her from my heart for ever) let me not urge her punishment beyond her crimes——I know the world is fond of any tale that feeds its appetite of scandal: and as I am conscious, severities of this kind seldom fail of imputations too gross to mention, I here, before you both acquit her of the least suspicion rais'd against the honour of my bed. Therefore when abroad her conduct may be question'd, do her fame that justice.
Lady Town. O sister!
[Turns to Lady Grace weeping.
Lord Town. When I am spoken of, where without favour this action may be canvass'd, relate but half my provocations, and give me up to censure.
[Going.
Lady Town. Support me! save me! hide me from the world!
[Falls on Lady Grace's neck.
Lord Town. [Returning.]——I had forgot me—You have no share in my resentment; therefore, as you have liv'd in friendship with her, your parting may admit of gentler terms than suit the honour of an injur'd husband.
[Offers to go out.