The Circle: A Comedy in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Arnold. It’s the only condition I make. My mind is absolutely made up. I will never divorce you, but I will enable you to divorce me.

Elizabeth. Oh, Arnold, it’s cruel to be so generous.

Arnold. It’s not generous at all. It’s the only way I have of showing you how deep and passionate and sincere my love is for you.

[There is a silence. He holds out his hand.

Good-night. I have a great deal of work to do before I go to bed.

Elizabeth. Good-night.

Arnold. Do you mind if I kiss you?

Elizabeth. [With agony.] Oh, Arnold!

[He gravely kisses her on the forehead and then goes out. Elizabeth stands lost in thought. She is shattered. Lady Kitty and Porteous come in. Lady Kitty wears a cloak.