The scene opens with a discussion of the pre-conditions for a divorce. The first is that the couple must have been married for at least a year before they can divorce. If they are not married for a long period of time, then the divorce will not be a valid one. The second is that if the couple is already married, then they will not have to divorce until the public has been made aware that they are married. If the public does not know about the marriage, then it will not make sense for the couple to divorce.