Mrs. Lynx monologue — Married Life: A Comedy, in Three Acts

(_Alone._)--Now what course shall I take?--that my husband is guilty, I have abundant of proof--and that I can never, never live with him again, is equally sure. I have sought a refuge here, in a miserable lodging-house; for where had I to go? Where _could_ an outraged and a homeless wife seek for shelter? with friends--with relations? No, no; I could not endure that bitter humiliation. If I am to be wretched, it shall be unseen and alone; I'll have no cold and affected sympathy--no pity from my kindred. Pity! there is no such feeling! 'tis disguised triumph, and we know it too; else why does the soul rise up within us and spurn it?--(_Looking off, R. H., F. E._)--Ah, _he_ here! the writer of the letter I received yesterday? then he has traced me to this house. What shall I do? he must not see me. Hark!--(_listens_)--he is making enquiries concerning me; how shall I avoid him? To retaliate upon my husband, I affected to encourage that man, and he thus presumes upon it. But now, though I shall never return again to my home, I must avoid all that would make me cease to respect myself--I'll to my room.