Lord Windermere. I will not—I cannot—she must come!
Lady Windermere. Then I shall do exactly as I have said. [Goes R.] You leave me no choice.
[Exit R.]
Lord Windermere. [Calling after her.] Margaret! Margaret! [A pause.] My God! What shall I do? I dare not tell her who this woman really is. The shame would kill her. [Sinks down into a chair and buries his face in his hands.]
Act Drop
SECOND ACT
SCENE
Drawing-room in Lord Windermere’s house. Door R.U. opening into ball-room, where band is playing. Door L. through which guests are entering. Door L.U. opens on to illuminated terrace. Palms, flowers, and brilliant lights. Room crowded with guests. Lady Windermere is receiving them.
Duchess of Berwick. [Up C.] So strange Lord Windermere isn’t here. Mr. Hopper is very late, too. You have kept those five dances for him, Agatha? [Comes down.]
Lady Agatha. Yes, mamma.