Stands back of table L.C.

DUCHESS OF BERWICK. Come and bid good-bye to Lady Windermere, and thank her for your charming visit. Coming down again. And by the way, I must thank you for sending a card to Mr. Hopper – he's that rich young Australian people are taking such notice of just at present. His father made a great fortune by selling some kind of food in circular tins – most palatable, I believe – I fancy it is the thing the servants always refuse to eat. But the son is quite interesting. I think he's attracted by dear Agatha's clever talk. Of course, we should be very sorry to lose her, but I think that a mother who doesn't part with a daughter every season has no real affection. We're coming to-night, dear. Parker opens C. doors. And remember my advice, take the poor fellow out of town at once, it is the only thing to do. Good-bye, once more; come, Agatha.

 

Exeunt Duchess and Lady Agatha C.

 

LADY WINDERMERE. How horrible! I understand now what Lord Darlington meant by the imaginary instance of the couple not two years married. Oh! it can't be true – she spoke of enormous sums of money paid to this woman. I know where Arthur keeps his bank book – in one of the drawers of that desk. I might find out by that. I will find out. Opens drawer. No, it is some hideous mistake. Rises and goes C. Some silly scandal! He loves me! He loves me! But why should I not look? I am his wife, I have a right to look! Returns to bureau, takes out book and examines it page by page, smiles and gives a sigh of relief. I knew it! there is not a word of truth in this stupid story. Puts book back in drawer. As she does so, starts and takes out another book. A second book – private – locked! Tries to open it, but fails. Sees paper knife on bureau, and with it cuts cover from book. Begins to start at the first page. »Mrs.