Scarlett tells Melanie not to talk with her. But Melanie receives her with complete kindness, and then graciously takes Belle's contribution for the hospital, which neither of the other women would stoop to accept. The second scene is one of the dramatic high points of the movie. As you remember, all through the story, Scarlett has had eyes for Melanie's husband Ashley, and nursed secret dreams of running away with him. One day, Scarlett and Ashley are caught in mad embrace in the lumber shop.
Word spreads through town like wildfire.
Later that night, Melanie throws a surprise birthday party for Ashley. Rhett Butler demands that Scarlett go to the party as invited, so that Melanie can have the public satisfaction of throwing Scarlett out of her home. Scarlett arrives at the door dressed in a red gown, wearing plenty of rouge. Her eyes flash coldly like a cornered cat. But Melanie walks all the way across the room, greets Scarlett with open arms, and asks her to help receive the other guests.