Jenny Here there is no relying on oaths, on probity. Despite law and honor, women these days are often trapped. They rely on words, and are deceived. So, to protect ourselves, we must make them put their fair words in writing. It's only fair. But, what use will it be to get it in writing, if we don't enforce the contract? I see very plainly, that in this ungrateful century, one cannot hope to rely on anything that's not in writing. But, we prefer to be the sport and dupes of men. Urania Say no more, Jenny. My incensed heart is resolved. If I can, I will avenge our whole sex on this man. Jenny What, then? To get the world's attention, does it take more than to wear a pretty wig? An empty head, a little whipper snapper, who admires only himself, and chatters pleasantly, because he has good manners, can plead with us about his love with complete impunity. He surprises us and makes his ardent declaration--but recoils when it comes time to make good on it. It's a hideous thing that cries to heaven for vengeance. Abuse like this is grounds for revoking the license we give men. Even if you don't want to marry him to avenge yourself, you must do it to enrage him, and to satisfy the rest of us! Urania (sighing) But, if he no longer loves me, what good is it to force him into such a sad marriage? Jenny Who marries only for love nowadays? That was fine, when you were an adolescent. It's no crime to marry without love, and, even without respect. What's necessary is to marry! You are at an age when your attractions will wither and disappear. The advice I'm giving you, in my zeal, is good. I intend to apply it to myself. To be an old maid is a frightful evil, far worse than all the unhappiness that marriage can cause. (Enter Hastings and Flavella) Hastings Chance has led you here and saved me the trouble of finding you. Urania Chance has favored us equally, for I have been saved the trouble of hunting you up. Hastings Always preoccupied? Aren't you yet undeceived? Don't you-- Don't you realize that your passion is a chimera and a hallucination? Give it up--believe me. You won't profit by crossing my plans. Show yourself to be wise. Urania As usual, you babble without rhyme or reason. But, you know what I want to talk about. Here is McNaughten's written promise to marry me; given as a mark of his affection and in his own handwriting. (Flavella flinches) Hastings Where is your credulity leading you, sis? Urania He wrote me, I tell you. I've been swindled. Listen, niece-- Flavella You may be quite sure I'm listening very carefully, auntie. Urania Without exaggeration, you are very pleasant to try to steal a heart like his from me, and to appropriate my treasure so boldly. Such an action is stupid and not honest. Flavella Who could possibly ravish a conquest from your arms? Your eyes guarantee that when one has been struck by your manifold attraction, they will never change. They are charming eyes which steal men from others.