How we cite our quotes: (Name of Play, Act #)
Quote #4
MRS. HILLS: […] You remember, Everett, you've always said about the Mannons that pride goeth before a fall and that some day God would humble them in their sinful pride.
HILLS: I don't remember ever saying—
BLAKE: If you'll excuse me, that's darned nonsense! I've known Ezra Mannon all my life, and to those he wanted to know he was as plain and simple—
HILLS: Of course, Doctor. My wife entirely misunderstood me. I was, perhaps, wrongly referring to Mrs. Mannon.
BLAKE: She's all right, too—when you get to know her.
HILLS: I have no doubt. (The Hunted, Act 1)
We interrupt our quotes from major characters to bring you a little more from the townsfolk. It looks like the Mannons aren't the only well-off types who are above stretching the truth a little bit—even if some of them have a harder time keeping their mouths shut. Mr. Hills tries to backpedal to appease Doctor Blake.
Quote #5
ORIN: What was that stuff you wrote about some Captain Brant coming to see Mother? Do you mean to tell me there's actually been gossip started about her? By God, if he dares come here again, I'm make him damned sorry he did!
LAVINIA: I'm glad you feel that way about him. But there's no time to talk now. All I want to do is warn you to be on your guard. Don't let her baby you the way she used to and get you under her thumb again. Don't believe the lies she'll tell you! Wait until you've talked to me! Will you promise me?
ORIN: You mean—Mother? What the hell are you talking about, anyway? Are you loony? Honestly, Vinnie, I call that carrying your everlasting squabble with Mother a bit too far. You ought to be ashamed of yourself! (The Hunted, Act 2)
Lavinia recognizes that lying is a good way to control someone, and she knows her mother's very capable of controlling Orin. So she tries to undermine her mother's influence on him by this pre-emptive strike. It doesn't seem to be working so far; she'll need to up the ante.
Quote #6
LAVINIA: Has she succeeded in convincing you I'm out of my mind? Oh, Orin, how can you be so stupid? Look at me! You know in your heart I'm the same as I always was—your sister—who loves you, Orin!
ORIN: I didn't mean—I only think the shock of his death—
LAVINIA: I've never lied to you, have I? Even when we were little you always knew I told you the truth, didn't you?
ORIN: Yes—but—
LAVINIA: Then you must believe I wouldn't lie to you now! (The Hunted, Act 3)
Poor Orin. He doesn't know who to believe. Either his mother or sister is lying to him, and he's stuck in the middle of two powerful women. His response is to just become confused and childlike.