Ext. A midsummer dawn. Thornfield the grounds

ROCHESTER (CONT'D)

I was duped into marriage with

this lunatic fifteen years ago.

Briggs and Wood are deeply repelled.

WOOD

Let us go. We have seen enough.

Bertha puts her arm through Rochester's; lays her head on

his shoulder; smiles at Jane, magnanimous in her victory.

ROCHESTER

My own demon, Bertha.

With shocking speed and strength Bertha lays her nails into

Rochester's cheek. He struggles with her.

Grace assists Rochester. They do not hit; they subdue.

Bertha's attack is effectively contained. They have her on

her knees, her arms behind her.

Bertha lifts her head and screams. If a scream could

express the agony of a whole soul then this would. Jane

turns on her heels. She stumbles, finds the door, exits.