She Stoops to Conquer

Hastings learns that Mrs. Hardcastle has left to take Constance back to her aunt's house. Sir Charles Marlow arrives and he and Mr. Hardcastle laugh about Marlow's misunderstanding and humiliating behavior. Mr. Hardcastle mentions that Marlow did seem to be very fond of his daughter, suggesting that the arranged marriage will work well. Marlow, however, protests, claiming that he only met Kate Hardcastle once and did not enjoy the conversation very much. He leaves and Kate enters, telling her father and Sir Charles to hide behind a screen, as she will show them Marlow professing his love to her shortly.

Tony returns from driving his mother and Constance, but he has actually brought them right back home. Mrs. Hardcastle is confused by the dark, thinking herself forty miles away. Tony sees Mr. Hardcastle coming and pretends that he is a highway robber, telling his mother to hide. However, when Mr. Hardcastle sees his wife, he reveals the trick. Mrs. Hardcastle is angry at Tony, but he replies that she is getting what she deserves for spoiling him. Mr. Hardcastle agrees.

Hastings tries to persuade Constance to go through with their elopement, but she has decided it is better to wait and try to obtain her fortune rather than continuing to deceive everyone.