Elizabeth. Oh, Arnold, believe me, I have tried to make the best of it. I’ve tried to love you, but I can’t. After all, one either loves or one doesn’t. Trying is no help. And now I’m at the end of my tether. I can’t help the consequences—I must do what my whole self yearns for.
Arnold. My poor child, I’m so afraid you’ll be unhappy. I’m so afraid you’ll regret.
Elizabeth. You must leave me to my fate. I hope you’ll forget me and all the unhappiness I’ve caused you.
Arnold. [There is a pause. Arnold walks up and down the room reflectively. He stops and faces her.] If you love this man and want to go to him I’ll do nothing to prevent you. My only wish is to do what is best for you.
Elizabeth. Arnold, that’s awfully kind of you. If I’m treating you badly at least I want you to know that I’m grateful for all your kindness to me.
Arnold. But there’s one favour I should like you to do me. Will you?
Elizabeth. Oh, Arnold, of course I’ll do anything I can.
Arnold. Teddie hasn’t very much money. You’ve been used to a certain amount of luxury, and I can’t bear to think that you should do without anything you’ve had. It would kill me to think that you were suffering any hardship or privation.
Elizabeth. Oh, but Teddie can earn enough for our needs. After all, we don’t want much money.
Arnold. I’m afraid my mother’s life hasn’t been very easy, but it’s obvious that the only thing that’s made it possible is that Porteous was rich. I want you to let me make you an allowance of two thousand a year.