_David_.

Forfeit through woman.

_Grace_.

Forfeit through her power;--
A power not lost, as most men know, I think,
Beyond the knowledge of their trustful wives.

_Mary_.

[_Rising, and walking hurriedly to the window_.]

'Tis a wild night without.

_Ruth_.

And getting wild
Within. Now, Grace, I--all of us--protest
Against a scene to-night. Look! You have driven
One to the window blushing, and your lord,
With lowering brow, is making stern essay
To stare the fire-dogs out of countenance.
These honest brothers, with their honest wives,
Grow glum and solemn, too, as if they feared
At the next gust to see the windows burst,
Or a riven poplar crashing through the roof.
And think of me!--a simple-hearted maid