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CRAIG’S WIFE
169

Mrs. Craig

Well, you’re certainly not beginning very auspiciously, I can tell you that.

Craig

But I shall be at least a self-respecting fool; and that’s something I could never be if I stayed here. There’s something in a man, Harriet, that I suppose is his essential manhood; and you insulted that last night, And I should be too embarrassed here, under your eye, knowing that you had no respect for that manhood. I should remember my lover’s ardors and enthusiasms for our future; and you bearing with me contemptuously, for the sake of your future. I couldn’t stand it.

Mrs. Craig

You’re not telling the truth; I always respected you; and I never had anything but respect for your plans, either.

Craig

Don’t try to soften the blow, Harriet; I assure you it isn’t necessary.
[He turns towards the door, and she makes a move towards him.

Mrs. Craig

Where are you going when you leave here?
[He turns and looks at her.

Craig

That ’ud be rather interesting to know, Harriet—where a lot like me are going.—Out of fashion, possibly.

Mrs. Craig

Well, what about your things?—Aren’t you going to take anything with you?