ACT II
Frank : What is it, then? Why won’t you marry me?
Jenny : I’m sorry, but I don’t love you, Frank.
Frank : Love? I wonder if we don’t misuse that word . . . what exactly we mean by it? One has romantic ideas when one is young . . . not that I ever had; I think I always realised the true inwardness of these things . . . but you, perhaps, may have felt otherwise. I know that I have never been a romantic figure. I have no illusions on that score. But you must have outgrown schoolgirl notions by now. Listen, Jenny; I care for you very deeply. I believe I have it in my power to make you happy. You cannot doubt that I should be a good husband to you. I need not tell you that there is no one else in my life. There never has been. I don’t think that there’s anyone in yours. Surely, Jenny, you cannot wish to remain a spinster. Your chances are not exactly likely to increase, and you know that I would care for you, look after you. Won’t you reconsider your decision?
Jenny : Oh, no, Frank . . . No . . . it’s no good. I’m cut out for an old maid. Leave it at that . . .
Frank : Jenny, you're crying.
Jenny : No.
Frank : But you are. Why, Jenny? Have I hurt you? Forgive me if I have. Nothing was further from my wish.
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