Phil. (peremptorily) I know what my duty is, and it shall be done. (to Beatrice) Am I not right?
Bea. (humbly) Yes, Philip.
Phil. (goes to Kate, C., takes her hand and puts arm round her; to Kate) You have battled with the world long enough. Now it is my turn. Till to-day I have been living in a fool’s paradise, but now I have awaken from my dream. I am not afraid, because I am not alone. (goes slowly to Beatrice and takes her hand) Many things have been taken from me. My fortune, my good name, my father’s memory—all these are gone! but you are left to me. I have a wife to work for, whose love will sustain me; who will share my trials as she has shared my prosperity. (goes towards Kate) Don’t fear for me. I will fight and I will conquer. (dropping exhausted) Ah, if I were only stronger! (on sofa; Beatrice goes to fire, L.)
Sir P. (goes to Kate who is R. of sofa; to Kate who is about to speak) You have said enough. Remember, your brother is an invalid. (goes to R.C.)
Phil. But I won’t be an invalid—I’ll make my will to-day.
Bea. Another will? (at fire)
Phil. Leaving Kate everything.
Kate. (to back of sofa, R. of Philip) Philip! I must speak, for our sister’s sake. If you have no thought for yourself, have some for her.
Phil. Mildred is provided for already. I cannot deal with her money; but I can with my own.