Cæsar's Wife: A Comedy in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Arthur.

You shouldn't have done that. The old lady knows quite well an affair of this sort is no business of yours. I wish you'd told her so.

Violet.

Arthur, what could I do? His wife was there, and his mother. If you'd seen them.... I couldn't bear to look at their misery and do nothing. I said I was sure that when you knew all the facts you'd reprieve the man.

Arthur.

It's not in my power to do anything of the sort. The prerogative of mercy is with the Khedive.

Violet.

I know, but if you advise him to exercise it he will. He's only too anxious to, but he won't move without your advice.

Arthur.

It's monstrous of the Princess to try and make use of you in this way. She prepared a complete trap for you.