derisive laughter._] I am deeply flattered by your enjoyment of the
prospect.

SOPHY.

Ha, ha, ha! why, you must take me for a fool!

QUEX.

Why?

SOPHY.

Why, can't you see that our being found together like this, here or
anywhere, would do for _you_ as well as for me?

QUEX.

[_Rising._] Of course I see it. [_Advancing to her._] But, my dear
Sophy, _I_ am already done for. _You_ provide for that. And so, if I
have to part with my last shred of character, I will lose it in
association with a woman of your class rather than with a lady whom I,
with the rest of the world, hold in the highest esteem.

SOPHY.

[_After a pause._] Ho! oh, indeed?

QUEX.