Enter Mrs. Gaines, R.
Mrs. G. Ah, you trollop! here you are! Your master told me that he had sold you and sent you down the river, but I knew better; I knew it was a lie. And when he left home this evening, he said he was going to the city on business, and I knew that was a lie too, and determined to follow him, and see what he was up to. I rode all the way over here to-night. My side-saddle was lent out, and I had to ride ten miles bare-back, and I can scarcely walk; and your master has just left here. Now deny that, if you dare.
Melinda. Madam, I will deny nothing which is true. Your husband has just gone from here, but God knows that I am innocent of any thing wrong with him.
Mrs. G. It’s a lie! I know better. If you are innocent, what are you doing here, cooped up in this cottage by yourself? Tell me that!
Melinda. God knows that I was brought here against my will, and I beg that you will take me away.
Mrs. G. Yes, Melinda, I will see that you are taken away, but it shall be after a fashion that you won’t like. I know that your master loves you, and I intend to put a stop to it. Here, drink the contents of this vial,—drink it!
Melinda. Oh, you will not take my life,—you will not!
Mrs. G. Drink the poison this moment!
Melinda. I cannot drink it.