Peter and Lady Teazle argue about the luxuries Lady Teazle buys with Peter’s money. Lady Teazle says she needs to keep up with fashion, and Peter urges her to remember her life in the country. Lady Teazle explains that she does not care about what she did before they were married, as she now wants to enjoy living among society. They both wish for the other’s death.

Peter says a husband should have authority over his wife, but Lady Teazle rejects his claim and decides to go to Lady Sneerwell’s. Peter criticizes Sneerwell, but he agrees to join Lady Teazle at Sneerwell’s home. After Lady Teazle leaves, Peter laments that he cannot make Lady Teazle love him, but he notes how attractive she is when they fight.

Sneerwell, Joseph, Crabtree, Benjamin, and Candour are gossiping, and Lady Teazle and Maria join them. Sneerwell encourages Maria to play cards with Joseph, and Lady Teazle is disappointed that Joseph chooses to go to Maria instead of Lady Teazle.

The group gossips about different people around town, and Peter arrives, whom they all think will ruin their fun. Peter sarcastically compliments their wit.