=Parson.= (_reading from book_) We are gathered together here in the presence of this company to join together this man and woman in the holy bonds of matrimony. If any man can show just cause why they may not lawfully be joined together, let him now speak, or else hereafter forever hold his peace--(_during the delivery of this, PETE manifests uneasiness and occasionally glances around at D. C. When GRAEF enters he displays joy by rubbing hands gleefully_)
Enter _GRAEF D. C.; goes down C. Speaks as he comes forward._
=Graef.= One moment, Parson. I forbid this marriage.
=Graef.= Aunt--Helen--you are being imposed upon!
=Wheeler.= (_angrily_) What is the meaning of this interference, sir?
=Graef.= (_to HELEN_) That man has a wife living.
=Wheeler.= 'Tis false! As false as he who makes the accusation. (_to HELEN, angrily_) You will not allow yourself to be influenced by the base charge of a common thief, will you?
=Graef.= Helen, I ask no one to believe my simple word. I have proof amply sufficient to convince you of the truthfulness of my assertion. (_to WHEELER_) Do you deny my charge?
=Wheeler.= I do, and challenge you to produce your proof.
=Graef.= (_to WHEELER_) It is here. Do you know this lady?
=Mrs. T.= (_to GRAEF_) Who is that woman?
=Graef.= Uncle's daughter, (_the DEACON'S back is turned toward MRS. D._) and your would-be son-in-law's wife.
=Wheeler.= I cannot deny it. (_bows head. MRS. T. catches HELEN by arm and supports her to sofa as MRS. D. speaks. PARSON B. closes book and crosses to R. of MISS AMELIA_)
=Mrs. D=. Alas, it is too true! But I remain such only until the courts sever our relation. (_goes to sofa and helps comfort HELEN, after casting a longing glance at the DEACON who still stands with back toward her_)
=Wheeler.= (_hisses through clenched teeth, to GRAEF_) So I have _you_ to thank for this humiliation, have I?
=Graef.= Yes, and it is a pleasure I have been anticipating for the past two days.
=Wheeler.= Then you prepared this plan for my exposure?
=Wheeler.= Have you the effrontery to tell me to my teeth that you deliberately prepared my downfall?
=Wheeler.= Then, you miserable cur, I'll be revenged. (_rushes at GRAEF who retreats a little. PETE draws huge butcher knife and runs to GRAEF'S side_)