Madam, my quickest way is to make the best of a bad
business, for you must see my duty in this matter. My men, with your
permission, must search your house and then your grounds.
Mrs. S. I have told you, sir, that no one can deny the right of
conquest.
[Winthrop, white and silent, turns to the men.
Winth. Hopkins, will you conduct the search, as quickly and as
quietly as possible?
Hop. As you say.
[He and the soldiers start to the door, but are stopped by a cry
from Charlotte, who stands between curtains at door center.
Char. Wait there! Your search shall not be long. See, I have all
you wish. I have the paper here! (She tears it from the front of her
dress). See, all the plans! Your visit shall not be in vain. And if you
want a prisoner, and if you are not satisfied, why then take me. Ha!
I am not afraid of you! Come, take me as your spy; I'll do you men no
harm. Here, take the paper; it's all you need. I have the information,
but I'll give it back to you. (She tears the paper in pieces, flinging
it at them). There, fit the pieces for yourselves!
[The men all gather around the table, placing the paper before
them.
Hop. It's only torn twice.
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