Kate. Then, let them never know it. (crosses to R.C., L. of table)
Sir P. Nonsense. I must see you properly provided for.
Kate. I am provided for. (gets C.) I have earned my living for years, and I can earn it to the end. I am not used to wealth, and should not know what to do with it. They are, and could not be happy without it. Let them remain in ignorance of the truth.
Sir P. (rises and goes towards her, C.) Miss Derwent, you are a most extraordinary person. I tell you, you are entitled to a fortune, and you don’t ask how much it is. A woman—and no curiosity.
Kate. I don’t care how much it is or how little. I don’t want to know. (turns away to front of table)
Sir P. This is a matter of no less than two hundred thousand pounds. Well?
Kate. I said nothing.
Sir P. Then will you please say something?
Kate. I have nothing to say.
Sir P. A woman—and nothing to say. You regard two hundred thousand pounds with contempt. Think, how many new frocks it would buy. (going to her)