Nina
[Impressively]
First, give me your word of honor that you’ll never reveal a word of what I’m going to tell you to a living soul—above all not to Gordon!
Madeline
[Looking at her in amazement—soothingly]
Couldn’t you tell me later, Mrs. Evans—after the race?
Nina
[Sternly—grabbing her by the wrist]
No, now! Do you promise?
Madeline
[With helpless annoyance]
Yes, Mrs. Evans.
Nina
[Sternly]
For the sake of your future happiness and my son’s I’ve got to speak! Your engagement forces me to ! You’ve probably wondered why I objected. It’s because the marriage is impossible. You can’t marry Gordon! I speak as your friend! You must break your engagement with him at once!
Madeline
[Cannot believe her ears—suddenly panic-stricken]
But why—why?
Darrell
[Who has come closer—resentfully thinking]
She wants to ruin my son’s life as she ruined mine! . . .
