Hamilton.
Father, I have no excuse to make. [Giles picks up the letters and crosses quickly and shows them to Jefferson. Jefferson turns away saying "No, no." Giles then turns to Monroe. Monroe takes the letters and throws them on the table saying: "I prefer not." Hamilton comes back of table.] Since this accusation has been made I must insist on your reading all these documents. These are his—and these are hers. They both form part of the plot in which you are now involved. You will find no mention of state debts in them. Her letters are an attempt to drag me into a prolonged intrigue, and were necessary for the full effect of his blackmailing. [Looking at Giles who is standing c. between Monroe and Jefferson.] A conspiracy from beginning to end. A conspiracy to discredit Washington's administration and my office. Will you read them or do you condemn me to read them to you?
Betsy.
[Heard off l., calling.] Alexander? [A moment of suspense. Enters door l.] Alexander! Oh, I beg your pardon, gentlemen, I thought you had gone. [The men rise and there is an awkward pause.] But this was to be my day with my husband. Won't you let him off till to-morrow? We've been parted so long, you know. Won't you, Mr. Jefferson?
