The suitors hatch a plan for him to marry Kate,  as Baptista is rich. Kate, however, has no intentions of getting married. Petruchio attempts to woo her. Offstage,  Lilli has an opportunity to read the card. She walks on stage off-cue and begins hitting Fred,  who,  along with the other actors,  tries to remain in character as Baptista gives Petruchio permission to marry Kate. Lilli continues to strike Fred,  and he ends up spanking her.