lord goring. Robert, I swear to you on my honour that that lady is stainless and guiltless of all offence towards you.
sir robert chiltern. She is a vile, an infamous thing!
lord goring. Don’t say that, Robert! It was for your sake she came here. It was to try and save you she came here. She loves you and no one else.
sir robert chiltern. You are mad. What have I to do with her intrigues with you? Let her remain your mistress! You are well suited to each other. She, corrupt and shameful—you, false as a friend, treacherous as an enemy even—
lord goring. It is not true, Robert. Before heaven, it is not true. In her presence and in yours I will explain all.
sir robert chiltern. Let me pass, sir. You have lied enough upon your word of honour.
[sir robert chiltern goes out. lord goring rushes to the door of the drawing-room, when mrs. cheveley comes out, looking radiant and much amused.]
mrs. cheveley. [With a mock curtsey] Good evening, Lord Goring!
lord goring. Mrs. Cheveley! Great heavens! . . . May I ask what you were doing in my drawing-room?
mrs. cheveley. Merely listening. I have a perfect passion for listening through keyholes. One always hears such wonderful things through them.