Scene III.

Manet Sostrata .

Sostra. How unjustly Do husbands stretch their censures to all wives Because of the offences of a few, Whose faults reflect dishonour on the rest! - For, heav'n so help me, as I'm innocent Of what my husband now accuses me! But 'tis no easy task to clear myself; So fix'd and rooted is the notion in them, That Step-Mothers are all severe. - Not I; For I have ever lov'd Philumena As my own daughter; nor can I conceive What accident has drawn her hatred on me. My son's return, I hope, will settle all; And, ah, I've too much cause to wish his coming.

Exit.