The Love Chase By James Sheridan Knowles

THE LOVE-CHASE by James Sheridan Knowles DRAMATIS PERSONAE(AS ORIGINALLY PERFORMED AT THE HAYMARKET, IN l837.) Sir William Fondlove, an old Baronet Mr. Strickland.Waller, in love with Lydia Mr. Elton.Wildrake, a Sportsman Mr. Webster.Trueworth, a Friend of Sir William Mr Hemmings.Neville, Friend to Waller Mr. Worrell.Humphreys, Friend to Waller Mr. Hutchings.Lash Mr. Ross.Chargewell, a Landlord Mr. Edwards.George, a Waiter Mr. Bishop.First Lawyer Mr. Ray.Widow Green Mrs. Glover.Constance, Daughter to Sir William Fondlove Mrs. Nisbett.Lydia, lady’s Maid to Widow Green Miss Vandenhoff.Alice, Housekeeper to Master Waller Mrs. Tayleure.Phoebe, Maid to Constance, Miss Wrighten.Amelia Miss Gallot.First Lady Mrs. Gallot. SCENE–LONDON. ACT I. SCENE I.–The Lobby of an Inn. [Enter CHARGEWELL, hurriedly.] Charg. What, hoa there! Hoa, sirrahs! More wine! Are the knaves asleep? Let not our guests cool, or we shall starve the till! Good waiting, more than viands and wine, doth help to make the inn!– George!–Richard!–Ralph!–Where are you? [Enter GEORGE.] George. Here am I, sir! Charg. Have you taken in more wine to that company? George. Yes, sir. Charg. That’s right. Serve them as quick as they order! A fair company! I have seen them here before. Take care they come again. A choice company! That Master Waller, I hear, is a fine spirit– leads the town. Pay him much duty. A deep purse, and easy strings. George. And there is another, sir;–a capital gentleman, though from the country. A gentleman most learned in dogs and horses! He doth talk wondrous edification: –one Master Wildrake. I wish you could hear him, sir. Charg. Well, well!–attend to them. Let them not cool o’er the liquor, or their calls will grow slack. Keep feeding the fire while it blazes, and the blaze will continue. Look to it well! George. I will, sir. Charg. And be careful, above all, that you please Master Waller. He is a guest worth pleasing. He is a gentleman. Free order, quick pay! George. And such, I’ll dare be sworn, is the other. A man of mighty stores of knowledge–most learned in dogs and horses! Never was I so edified by the discourse of mortal man. [They go out severally.] SCENE II.–A Room. [MASTER WALLER, MASTER WILDRAKE, MASTER TRUEWORTH, MASTER NEVILLE, and MASTER HUMPHREYS, sitting round a table.] Wal. Well, Master Wildrake, speak you of the chase! To hear you one doth feel the bounding steed; You bring the hounds and game, and all to view – All scudding to the jovial huntsman’s cheer! And yet I pity the poor crowned deer,And always fancy ’tis by fortune’s spite, That lordly head of his, he bears so high – Like Virtue, stately in calamity,And hunted by the human, worldly hound – Is made to fly before the pack, that straight Burst into song at prospect of his death. You say their cry is harmony; and yetThe chorus scarce is music to my ear, When I bethink me what it sounds to his; Nor deem I sweet the note that rings the knell Of the once merry forester! Nev. The same thingsPlease us or pain, according to the thought We take of them. Some smile at their own death, Which most do shrink from, as beast of prey It kills to look upon. But you, who take Such pity of the deer, whence follows it You hunt more costly game?–the comely maid, To wit, that waits on buxom Widow Green? Hum. The comely maid! Such term not half the sum Of her rich beauty gives! Were rule to go By loveliness, I knew not in the court,Or city, lady might not fitly serve That lady serving-maid! True. Come! your defence?Why show you ruth where there’s least argument, Deny it where there’s most? You will not plead? Oh, Master Waller, where we use to huntWe think the sport no crime! Hum. I give you joy,You prosper in your chase. Wal. Not so! The maidIn simple honesty I must pronounceA miracle of virtue, well as beauty. Nev. And well do I believe you, Master Waller; Those know I who have ventured gift and promise But for a minute of her ear–the boonOf a poor dozen words spoke through a chink – And come off bootless, save the haughty scorn That cast their bounties back to them again. True. That warrants her what Master Waller speaks her. Is she so very fair? Nev. Yes, Master Trueworth;And I believe indeed an honest maid: But Love’s the coin to market with for love, And that knows Master Waller. On pretence Of sneaking kindness for gay Widow Green, He visits her, for sake of her fair maid! To whom a glance or word avails to hintHis proper errand; and–as glimpses only Do only serve to whet the wish to see –Awakens interest to hear the taleSo stintingly that’s told. I know his practice – Luck to you, Master Waller! If you win,You merit it, who take the way to win! Wal. Good Master Neville! True. I should laugh to seeThe poacher snared!–the maid, for mistress sought, Turn out a wife. Nev. How say you, Master Waller?Things quite as strange have fallen! Wed. Impossible! True. Impossible! Most possible of things – If thou’rt in love! Where merit lies itself, What matters it to want the name, which weighed, Is not the worth of so much breath as it takes To utter it! If, but from Nature’s hand, She is all you could expect of gentle blood, Face, form, mien, speech; with these, what to belong To lady more behoves–thoughts delicate, Affections generous, and modesty –Perfectionating, brightening crown of all! – If she hath these–true titles to thy heart – What does she lack that’s title to thy hand? The name of lady, which is none of these, But may belong without? Thou mightst do worse Than marry her. Thou wouldst, undoing her, Yea, by my mother’s name, a shameful act Most shamefully performed! Wal. [Starting up and drawing.] Sir! Nev. [And the others, interposing.] Gentlemen! True. All’s right! Sit down!–I will not draw again. A word with you: If–as a man–thou sayest, Upon thy honour, I have spoken wrong,I’ll ask thy pardon!–though I never hold Communion with thee more! Wal. [After a pause, putting up his sword.] My sword is sheathed?Wilt let me take thy hand? True. ‘Tis thine, good sir,And faster than before–A fault confessed Is a new virtue added to a man!Yet let me own some blame was mine. A truth May be too harshly told–but ’tis a theme I am tender on–I had a sister, sir,You understand me!–‘Twas my happiness To own her once–I would forget her now! – I have forgotten!–I know not if she lives! – Things of such strain as we were speaking of, Spite of myself, remind me of her!–So! – Nev. Sit down! Let’s have more wine. Wild. Not so, good sirs.Partaking of your hospitality,I have overlooked good friends I came to visit, And who have late become sojourners here – Old country friends and neighbours, and with whom I e’en take up my quarters. Master Trueworth, Bear witness for me. True. It is even so.Sir William Fondlove and his charming daughter. Wild. Ay, neighbour Constance. Charming, does he say? Yes, neighbour Constance is a charming girl To those that do not know her. If she plies me As hard as was her custom in the country, I should not wonder though, this very day, I seek the home I quitted for a month! [Aside.] Good even, gentlemen. Hum. Nay, if you go,We all break up, and sally forth together. Wal. Be it so–Your hand again, good Master Trueworth! I am sorry I did pain you. True. It is thine, sir. [They go out.] SCENE III.–Sir William Fondlove’s House.–A Room. [Enter SIR WILLIAM FONDLOVE.] Sir Wil. At sixty-two, to be in leading-strings, Is an old child–and with a daughter, too! Her mother held me ne’er in check so strait As she. I must not go but where she likes, Nor see but whom she likes, do anythingBut what she likes!–A slut bare twenty-one! Nor minces she commands! A brigadierMore coolly doth not give his orders out Than she! Her waiting-maid is aide-de-camp; My steward adjutant; my lacqueys serjeants; That bring me her high pleasure how I march And counter-march–when I’m on duty–when I’m off–when suits it not to tell it me Herself–“Sir William, thus my mistress says!” As saying it were enough–no will of mine Consulted! I will marry. Must I serve,Better a wife, my mistress, than a daughter! And yet the vixen says, if I do marry,I’ll find she’ll rule my wife, as well as me! [Enter TRUEWORTH.] Ah, Master Trueworth! Welcome, Master Trueworth! True. Thanks, sir; I am glad to see you look so well! Sir Wil. Ah, Master Trueworth, when one turns the hill, ‘Tis rapid going down! We climb by steps; By strides we reach the bottom. Look at me, And guess my age. True. Turned fifty. Sir Wil. Ten years more!How marvellously well I wear! I think You would not flatter me!–But scan me close, And pryingly, as one who seeks a thingHe means to find–What signs of age dost see? True. None! Sir Wil. None about the corners of the eyes? Lines that diverge like to the spider’s joists, Whereon he builds his airy fortalice?They call them crow’s feet–has the ugly bird Been perching there?–Eh?–Well? True. There’s something like,But not what one must see, unless he’s blind Like steeple on a hill! Sir Wil. [After a pause.] Your eyes are good! I am certainly a wonder for my age;I walk as well as ever! Do I stoop? True. A plummet from your head would find your heel. Sir Wil. It is my make–my make, good Master Trueworth; I do not study it. Do you observeThe hollow in my back? That’s natural. As now I stand, so stood I when a child, A rosy, chubby boy!–I am youthful toA miracle! My arm is firm as ’twasAt twenty. Feel it! True. [Feeling SIR WILLIAM’S arm.] It is deal! Sir Wil. Oak–oak,Isn’t it, Master Trueworth? Thou hast known me Ten years and upwards. Thinkest my leg is shrunk? True. No. Sir Wil. No! not in the calf? True. As big a calfAs ever! Sir Wil. Thank you, thank you–I believe it! When others waste, ’tis growing-time with me! I feel it, Master Trueworth! Vigour, sir, In every joint of me–could run!–could leap! Why shouldn’t I marry? Knife and fork I play Better than many a boy of twenty-five –Why shouldn’t I marry? If they come to wine, My brace of bottles can I carry home,And ne’er a headache. Death! why shouldn’t I marry? True. I see in nature no impediment. Sir Wil. Impediment? She’s all appliances! – And fortune’s with me, too! The Widow Green Gives hints to me. The pleasant Widow Green Whose fortieth year, instead of autumn, brings, A second summer in. Odds bodikins,How young she looks! What life is in her eyes! What ease is in her gait!–while, as she walks, Her waist, still tapering, takes it pliantly! How lollingly she bears her head withal: On this side now–now that! When enters she A drawing-room, what worlds of gracious things Her curtsey says!–she sinks with such a sway, Greeting on either hand the company,Then slowly rises to her state again! She is the empress of the card-table!Her hand and arm!–Gods, did you see her deal – With curved and pliant wrist dispense the pack, Which, at the touch of her fair fingers fly! How soft she speaks–how very soft! Her voice Comes melting from her round and swelling throat, Reminding you of sweetest, mellowest things – Plums, peaches, apricots, and nectarines – Whose bloom is poor to paint her cheeks and lips. By Jove, I’ll marry! True. You forget, Sir William,I do not know the lady. Sir Wil. Great your loss.By all the gods I’ll marry!–but my daughter Must needs be married first. She rules my house; Would rule it still, and will not have me wed. A clever, handsome, darling, forward minx! When I became a widower, the reinsHer mother dropped she caught,–a hoyden girl; Nor, since, would e’er give up; howe’er I strove To coax or catch them from her. One way still Or t’other she would keep them–laugh, pout, plead; Now vanquish me with water, now with fire; Would box my face, and, ere I well could ope My mouth to chide her, stop it with a kiss! The monkey! What a plague she’s to me! How I love her! how I love the Widow Green! True. Then marry her! Sir Wil. I tell thee, first of allMust needs my daughter marry. See I not A hope of that; she nought affects the sex: Comes suitor after suitor–all in vain.Fast as they bow she curtsies, and says, “Nay!” Or she, a woman, lacks a woman’s heart,Or hath a special taste which none can hit. True. Or taste, perhaps, which is already hit. Sir Wil. Eh!–how? True. Remember you no country friend, Companion of her walks–her squire to church, Her beau whenever she went visiting –Before she came to town? Sir Wil. No! True. None?–art sure?No playmate when she was a girl? Sir Wil. O! ay!That Master Wildrake, I did pray thee go And wait for at the inn; but had forgotten. Is he come? True. And in the house. Some friends that met him, As he alighted, laid strong hands upon Him, And made him stop for dinner. We had else Been earlier with you. Sir Wil. Ha! I am glad he is come. True. She may be smit with him. Sir Wil. As cat with dog! True. He heard her voice as we did mount the stairs, And darted straight to join her. Sir Wil. You shall seeWhat wondrous calm and harmony take place, When fire meets gunpowder! Con. [Without.] Who sent for you?What made you come? Wild. [Without.] To see the town, not you! A kiss! Con. I vow I’ll not. Wild. I swear you shall. Con. A saucy cub! I vow, I had as lief Your whipper-in had kissed me. Sir Wil. Do you hear? True. I do. Most pleasing discords! [Enter CONSTANCE and WILDRAKE.] Con. Father, speakTo neighbour Wildrake! Sir Wil. Very glad to see him! Wild. I thank you, good Sir William! Give you joy Of your good looks! Con. What, Phoebe!–Phoebe!–Phoebe! Sir Wil. What wantest thou with thy lap-dog? Con. Only, sir,To welcome neighbour Wildrake! What a figure To show himself in town! Sir Wil. Wilt hold thy peace? Con. Yes; if you’ll lesson me to hold my laughter! Wildrake. Wild. Well? Con. Let me walk thee in the Park –How they would stare at thee! Sir Wil. Wilt ne’er give o’er? Wild. Nay, let her have her way–I heed her not! Though to more courteous welcome I have right; Although I am neighbour Wildrake! Reason is reason! Con. And right is right! so welcome, neighbour Wildrake, I am very, very, very glad to see you!Come, for a quarter of an hour we’ll e’en Agree together! How do your horses, neighbour? Wild. Pshaw! Con. And your dogs? Wild. Pshaw! Con. Whipper-in and huntsman? Sir Wil. Converse of things thou knowest to talk about! Con. And keep him silent, father, when I know He cannot talk of any other things?How does thy hunter? What a sorry trick He played thee t’other day, to balk his leap And throw thee, neighbour! Did he balk the leap? Confess! You sportsmen never are to blame! Say you are fowlers, ’tis your dog’s in fault! Say you are anglers, ’tis your tackle’s wrong; Say you are hunters, why the honest horse That bears your weight, must bear your blunders too! Why, whither go you? Wild. Anywhere from thee. Con. With me you mean. Wild. I mean it not. Con. You do!I’ll give you fifty reasons for’t–and first, Where you go, neighbour, I’ll go! [They go out–WILDRAKE, pettishly–CONSTANCE laughing.] Sir Wil. Do you mark?Much love is there! True. Indeed, a heap, or none!I’d wager on the heap! Sir Wil. Ay!–Do you thinkThese discords, as in the musicians’ art, Are subtle servitors to harmony?That all this war’s for peace? This wrangling but A masquerade where love his roguish face Conceals beneath an ugly visor!–Well? True. Your guess and my conceit are not a mile Apart. Unlike to other common flowers,The flower of love shews various in the bud; ‘Twill look a thistle, and ’twill blow a rose! And with your leave I’ll put it to the test; Affect myself, for thy fair daughter, love – Make him my confidant–dilate to himUpon the graces of her heart and mind, Feature and form–that well may comment bear – Till–like the practised connoisseur, who finds A gem of heart out in a household picture The unskilled owner held so cheap he grudged Renewal of the chipped and tarnished frame, But values now as priceless–I arouse him Into a quick sense of the worth of thatWhose merit hitherto, from lack of skill, Or dulling habit of acquaintanceship,He has not been awake to. Con. [Without.] Neighbour Wildrake! Sir Wil. Hither they come. I fancy well thy game! O to be free to marry Widow Green!I’ll call her hence anon–then ply him well. [SIR WILLIAM goes out.] Wild. [Without.] Nay, neighbour Constance! True. He is high in storm. [Enter WILDRAKE and CONSTANCE.] Wild. To Lincolnshire, I tell thee. Con. Lincolnshire!What, prithee, takes thee off to Lincolnshire? Wild. Too great delight in thy fair company. True. Nay, Master Wildrake, why away so soon? You are scarce a day in town!–Extremes like this, And starts of purpose, are the signs of love. Though immatured as yet. [Aside.] Con. He’s long enoughIn town! What should he here? He’s lost in town: No man is he for concerts, balls, or routs! No game he knows at cards, save rare Pope Joan! He ne’er could master dance beyond a jig; And as for music, nothing to compareTo the melodious yelping of a hound, Except the braying of his huntsman’s horn! Ask HIM to stay in town! Sir Wil. [Without.] Hoa, Constance! Con. Sir! –Neighbour, a pleasant ride to Lincolnshire! Good-bye! Sir Wil. [Without.] Why, Constance! Con. Coming, sir. Shake hands!Neighbour, good-bye! Don’t look so woe-begone; ‘Tis but a two-days’ ride, and thou wilt see Rover, and Spot, and Nettle, and the rest Of thy dear country friends! Sir Wil. [Without.] Constance! I say. Con. Anon!–Commend me to the gentle souls, And pat them for me!–Will you, neighbour Wildrake? Sir Wil. [Without.] Why, Constance! Constance! Con. In a moment, sir!Good-bye!–I’d cry, dear neighbour–if I could! Good-bye!–A pleasant day when next you hunt! And, prithee, mind thy horse don’t balk his leap! Good-bye!–and, after dinner, drink my health! “A bumper, sirs, to neighbour Constance!”–Do! – And give it with a speech, wherein unfold My many graces, more accomplishments,And virtues topping either–in a word, How I’m the fairest, kindest, best of neighbours! [They go out severally.–TRUEWORTH trying to pacify WILDRAKE– CONSTANCE laughing.] ACT II. SCENE I.–A Room in Sir William’s House. [Enter TRUEWORTH and WILDRAKE.] Wild. Nay, Master Trueworth, I must needs be gone! She treats me worse and worse! I am a stock, That words have none to pay her. For her sake I quit the town to-day. I like a jest,But hers are jests past bearing. I am her butt, She nothing does but practise on! A plague! – Fly her shafts ever your way? True. Would they did! Wild. Art mad?–or wishest she should drive thee so? True. Thou knowest her not. Wild. I know not neighbour Constance? Then know I not myself, or anythingWhich as myself I know! True. Heigh ho! Wild. Heigh ho!Why what a burden that for a man’s song! Would fit a maiden that was sick for love. Heigh ho! Come ride with me to Lincolnshire, And turn thy “Heigh ho!” into “hilly ho!” True. Nay, rather tarry thou in town with me. Men sometimes find a friend’s hand of avail, When useless proves their own. Wilt lend me thine? Wild. Or may my horse break down in a steeple-chase! True. A steeple-chase. What made thee think of that? I’m for the steeple–not to ride a race, Only to get there!–nor alone, in sooth, But in fair company. Wild. Thou’rt not in love! True. Heigh ho! Wild. Thou wouldst not marry! True. With your help. Wild. And whom, I prithee? True. Gentle Mistress Constance! Wild. What!–neighbour Constance?–Never did I dream That mortal man would fall in love with her. [Aside.] In love with neighbour Constance!–I feel strange At thought that she should marry!–[Aside.] Go to church With neighbour Constance! That’s a steeple-chase I never thought of. I feel very strange! What seest in neighbour Constance? True. Lovers’ eyesSee with a vision proper to themselves; Yet thousand eyes will vouch what mine affirm. First, then, I see in her the mould express Of woman–stature, feature, body, limb – Breathing the gentle sex we value most,When most ’tis at antipodes with ours! Wild. You mean that neighbour Constance is a woman. Why, yes; she is a woman, certainly. True. So much for person. Now for her complexion. What shall we liken to her dainty skin?Her arm, for instance? – Wild. Snow will match it. True. Snow!It is her arm without the smoothness on’t; Then is not snow transparent. ‘Twill not do. Wild. A pearl’s transparent! True. So it is, but yetYields not elastic to the thrilled touch! I know not what to liken to her armExcept her beauteous fellow! Oh! to be The chosen friend of two such neighbours! Wild. WouldHis tongue would make a halt. He makes too free With neighbour Constance! Can’t he let her arms Alone! I trust their chosen friendWill ne’er be he! I’m vexed. [Aside.] True. But graceful thingsGrow doubly graceful in the graceful use! Hast marked her ever walk the drawing-room? Wild. [Snappishly.] No. True. No! Why, where have been your eyes? Wild. In my head!But I begin to doubt if open yet. [Aside.] True. Yet that’s a trifle to the dance; down which She floats as though she were a form of air; The ground feels not her foot, or tells not on’t; Her movements are the painting of the strain, Its swell, its fall, its mirth, its tenderness! Then is she fifty Constances!–each moment Another one, and each, except its fellow, Without a peer! You have danced with her! Wild. I hateTo dance! I can’t endure to dance!–Of course You have danced with her? True. I have. Wild. You have? True. I have. Wild. I do abominate to dance!–could carve Fiddlers and company! A dancing manTo me was ever like a dancing dog!Save less to be endured.–Ne’er saw I one But I bethought me of the master’s whip. True. A man might bear the whip to dance with her! Wild. Not if I had the laying of it on! True. Well; let that pass. The lady is the theme. Wild. Yes; make an end of it!–I’m sick of it. [Aside.] True. How well she plays the harpsichord and harp! How well she sings to them! Whoe’er would prove The power of song, should hear thy neighbour sing, Especially a love-song! Wild. Does she singSuch songs to thee? True. Oh, yes, and constantly.For such I ever ask her. Wild. Forward minx! [Aside.]Maids should not sing love-songs to gentlemen! Think’st neighbour Constance is a girl to love? True. A girl to love?–Ay, and with all her soul! Wild. How know you that? True. I have studied close the sex. Wild. You town-rakes are the devil for the sex! [Aside.] True. Not your most sensitive and serious maid I’d always take for deep impressions. Mind The adage of the bow. The pensive browI have oft seen bright in wedlock, and anon O’ercast in widowhood; then, bright again. Ere half the season of the weeds was out; While, in the airy one, I have known one cloud Forerunner of a gloom that ne’er cleared up – So would it prove with neighbour Constance. Not On superficial grounds she’ll ever love; But once she does, the odds are ten to one Her first love is her last! Wild. I wish I ne’erHad come to town! I was a happy man Among my dogs and horses. [Aside.] Hast thou broke Thy passion to her? True. Never. Wild. Never? True. No.I hoped you’d act my proxy there. Wild. I thank you. True. I knew ‘twould be a pleasure to you. Wild. Yes;A pleasure!–an unutterable pleasure! True. Thank you! You make my happiness your own. Wild. I do. True. I see you do. Dear Master Wildrake! Oh, what a blessing is a friend in need! You’ll go and court your neighbour for me? Wild. Yes. True. And says she “nay” at first, you’ll press again? Wild. Ay, and again! True. There’s one thing I mistrust–yea, most mistrust, That of my poor deserts you’ll make too much. Wild. Fear anything but that. True. ‘Twere better farYou slightly spoke of them. Wild. You think so? True. Yes.Or rather did not speak of them at all. Wild. You think so? True. Yes. Wild. Then I’ll not say a wordAbout them. True. Thank you! A judicious friendIs better than a zealous: you are both! I see you’ll plead my cause as ’twere your own; Then stay in town, and win your neighbour for me; Make me the envy of a score of menThat die for her as I do. Make her mine, And when the last “Amen!” declares complete The mystic tying of the holy knot,And ‘fore the priest a blushing wife she stands, Be thine the right to claim the second kiss She pays for change from maidenhood to wifehood. [Goes out.] Wild. Take that thyself! The first be mine, or none! A man in love with neighbour Constance! Never Dreamed I that such a thing could come to pass! Such person, such endowments, such a soul! I never thought to ask myself beforeIf she were man or woman! Suitors, too, Dying for her! I’ll e’en make one among ’em! Woo her to go to church along with him,And for my pains the privilege to take The second kiss? I’ll take the second kiss, And first one too–and last! No man shall touch Her lips but me. I’ll massacre the manThat looks upon her! Yet what chance have I With lovers of the town, whose study ’tis To please your lady belles!–who dress, walk, talk, To hit their tastes–what chance, a country squire Like me? Yet your true fair, I have heard, prefers The man before his coat at any time;And such a one may neighbour Constance be. I’ll show a limb with any of them! Silks I’ll wear, nor keep my legs in cases more. I’ll learn to dance town-dances, and frequent Their concerts! Die away at melting strains, Or seem to do so–far the easier thing,And as effective quite; leave naught undone To conquer neighbour Constance. [Enter LASH.] Lash. Sir. Wild. Well, sir? Lash. So please you, sir, your horse is at the door. Wild. Unsaddle him again and put him up. And, hark you, get a tailor for me, sir – The rarest can be found. Lash. The man’s below, sir,That owns the mare your worship thought to buy. Wild. Tell him I do not want her, sir. Lash. I vowYou will not find her like in Lincolnshire. Wild. Go to! She’s spavined. Lash. Sir! Wild. Touched in the wind. Lash. I trust my master be not touched in the head! I vow, a faultless beast! [Aside.] Wild. I want her not,And that’s your answer. Go to the hosier’s, sir, And bid him send me samples of his gear, Of twenty different kinds. Lash. I will, sir.–Sir! Wild. Well, sir. Lash. Squire Brush’s huntsman’s here, and says His master’s kennel is for sale. Wild. The dogsAre only fit for hanging! – Lash. Finer bred – Wild. Sirrah, if more to me thou talkest of dogs, Horses, or aught that to thy craft belongs, Thou mayst go hang for me!–A cordwainer Go fetch me straight–the choicest in the town. Away, sir! Do thy errands smart and well As thou canst crack thy whip! [LASH goes out.] Dear neighbour Constance,I’ll give up horses, dogs, and all for thee! [Goes out.] SCENE II. [Enter WIDOW GREEN and LYDIA.] W. Green. Lydia, my gloves. If Master Waller calls, I shall be in at three; and say the same To old Sir William Fondlove. Tarry yet! – What progress, think you, make I in the heart Of fair young Master Waller? Gods, my girl, It is a heart to win and man as well!How speed I, think you? Didst, as I desired, Detain him in my absence when he called, And, without seeming, sound him touching me? Lydia. Yes. W. Green. And effects he me, or not? How guess you? What said he of me? Looked he balked, or not, To find me not at home? Inquired he when I would be back, as much he longed to see me? What did he–said he? Come!–Is he in love, Or like to fall into it? Goes well my game, Or shall I have my labour for my pains? Lydia. I think he is in love.–O poor evasion! O to love truth, and yet not dare to speak it! [Aside.] W. Green. You think he is in love–I’m sure of it. As well have asked you has he eyes and ears, And brain and heart to use them? Maids do throw Trick after trick away, but widows knowTo play their cards! How am I looking, Lydia? Lydia. E’en as you ever look. W. Green. Handsome, my girl?Eh? Clear in my complexion? Eh?–brimful Of spirits? not too much of me, nor yetToo little?–Eh?–A woman worth a man? Look at me, Lydia! Would you credit, girl, I was a scarecrow before marriage? Lydia. Nay! – W. Green. Girl, but I tell thee “yea.” That gown of thine – And thou art slender–would have hung about me! There’s something of me now! good sooth, enough! Lydia, I’m quite contented with myself;I’m just the thing, methinks, a widow should be. So, Master Waller, you believe, affects me? But, Lydia, not enough to hook the fish; To prove the angler’s skill, it must be caught; And lovers, Lydia, like the angler’s prey – Which, when he draws it near the landing-place, Takes warning and runs out the slender line, And with a spring perchance jerks off the hold When we do fish for them, and hook, and think They are all but in the creel, will make the dart That sets them free to roam the flood again! Lydia. Is’t so? W. Green. Thou’lt find it so, or better luck Than many another maid! Now mark me, Lydia: Sir William Fondlove fancies me. ‘Tis well! I do not fancy him! What should I doWith an old man?–Attend upon the gout, Or the rheumatics! Wrap me in the cloudOf a darkened chamber–‘stead of shining out, The sun of balls, and routs, and gala-days! But he affects me, Lydia; so he may!Now take a lesson from me–Jealousy Had better go with open, naked breast,Than pin or button with a gem. Less plague, The plague-spot; that doth speedy make an end One way or t’other, girl. Yet, never love Was warm without a spice of jealousy.Thy lesson now–Sir William Fondlove’s rich, And riches, though they’re paste, yet being many, The jewel love we often cast away for.I use him but for Master Waller’s sake. Dost like my policy? Lydia. You will not chide me? W. Green. Nay, Lydia, I do like to hear thy thoughts, They are such novel things–plants that do thrive With country air! I marvel still they flower, And thou so long in town! Speak freely, girl! Lydia. I cannot think love thrives by artifice, Or can disguise its mood, and show its face. I would not hide one portion of my heart Where I did give it and did feel ’twas right, Nor feign a wish, to mask a wish that was, Howe’er to keep it. For no cause exceptMyself would I be loved. What were’t to me, My lover valued me the more, the moreHe saw me comely in another’s eyes, When his alone the vision I would showBecoming to? I have sought the reason oft, They paint Love as a child, and still have thought, It was because true love, like infancy,Frank, trusting, unobservant of its mood, Doth show its wish at once, and means no more! W. Green. Thou’lt find out better when thy time doth come. Now wouldst believe I love not Master Waller? I never knew what love was, Lydia;That is, as your romances have it. First, I married for a fortune. Having that,And being freed from him that brought it me, I marry now, to please my vanity,A man that is the fashion. O the delight Of a sensation, and yourself the cause!To note the stir of eyes, and ears, and tongues, When they do usher Mistress Waller in,Late Widow Green, her hand upon the arm Of her young, handsome husband!–How my fan Will be in requisition–I do feelMy heart begin to flutter now–my blood To mount into my cheek! My honeymoonWill be a month of triumphs!–“Mistress Waller!” That name, for which a score of damsels sigh, And but the widow had the wit to win!Why, it will be the talk of east to west, And north and south!–The children loved the man, And lost him so–I liked, but there I stopped; For what is it to love, but mind and heart And soul upon another to depend?Depend upon another? Nothing beBut what another wills? Give up the rights Of mine own brain and heart? I thank my stars I never came to that extremity. [Goes out.] Lydia. She never loved, indeed! She knows not love, Except what’s told of it! She never felt it. To stem a torrent, easy, looking at it;But once you venture in, you nothing know Except the speed with which you’re borne away, Howe’er you strive to check it. She suspects not Her maid, not she, brings Master Waller hither. Nor dare I undeceive her. Well might she say Her young and handsome husband! Yet his face And person are the least of him, and vanish When shines his soul out through his open eye! He all but says he loves me! His respect Has vanquished me! He looks the will to speak His passion, and the fear that ties his tongue – The fear? He loves not honestly, and yet I’ll swear he loves–I’ll swear he honours me! It is but my condition is a bar,Denies him give me all. But knew he me As I do know myself! Whate’er his purpose, When next we speak, he shall declare it to me. [Goes out.] SCENE III.–Sir William Fondlove’s. [Enter CONSTANCE, dressed for riding, and PHOEBE.] Con. Well, Phoebe, would you know me? Are those locks That cluster on my forehead and my cheek, Sufficient mask? Show I what I would seem, A lady for the chase? My darkened browsAnd heightened colour, foreign to my face, Do they my face pass off for stranger too? What think you? Phoebe. That he’ll ne’er discover you. Con. Then send him to me. Say a lady wants To speak with him, unless indeed it beA man in lady’s gear; I look so bold And speak so gruff. Away! [PHOEBE goes out.] That I am glad He stays in town, I own, but if I am,‘Tis only for the tricks I’ll play upon him, And now begin, persuading him his fameHath made me fancy him, and brought me hither On visit to his worship. Soft, his foot! THIS he? Why, what has metamorphosed him. And changed my sportsman to fine gentleman? Well he becomes his clothes! But, check my wonder, Lest I forget myself. Why, what an airThe fellow hath. A man to set a cap at! [Enter WILDRAKE.] Wild. Kind lady, I attend your fair commands. Con. My veiled face denies me justice, sir, Else would you see a maiden’s blushing cheek Do penance for her forwardness; too late, I own, repented of. Yet if ’tis true,By our own hearts of others we may judge, Mine in no peril lies that’s shown to you, Whose heart, I’m sure, is noble. Worthy sir, Souls attract souls when they’re of kindred vein. The life that you love, I love. Well I know, ‘Mongst those who breast the feats of the bold chase, You stand without a peer; and for myself I dare avow ‘mong such, none follows them With heartier glee than I do. Wild. Churl were heThat would gainsay you, madam. Con. [Curtseying.] What delightTo back the flying steed, that challenges The wind for speed!–seems native more of air Than earth!–whose burden only lends him fire! – Whose soul, in his task, turns labour into sport; Who makes your pastime his! I sit him now! He takes away my breath! He makes me reel! I touch not earth–I see not–hear not. All Is ecstasy of motion! Wild. You are used,I see, to the chase. Con. I am, sir. Then the leap,To see the saucy barrier, and knowThe mettle that can clear it! Then, your time To prove you master of the manege. NowYou keep him well together for a space, Both horse and rider braced as you were one, Scanning the distance–then you give him rein, And let him fly at it, and o’er he goesLight as a bird on wing. Wild. ‘Twere a bold leap,I see, that turned you, madam. Con. [Curtseying.] Sir, you’re good!And then the hounds, sir! Nothing I admire Beyond the running of the well-trained pack. The training’s everything! Keen on the scent! At fault none losing heart!–but all at work! None leaving his task to another!–answering The watchful huntsman’s cautions, check, or cheer. As steed his rider’s rein! Away they goHow close they keep together! What a pack! Nor turn, nor ditch, nor stream divides them–as They moved with one intelligence, act, will! And then the concert they keep up!–enough To make one tenant of the merry wood,To list their jocund music! Wild. You describeThe huntsman’s pastime to the life. Con. I love it!To wood and glen, hamlet and town, it is A laughing holiday! Not a hill-topBut’s then alive! Footmen with horsemen vie, All earth’s astir, roused with the revelry Of vigour, health, and joy! Cheer awakes cheer, While Echo’s mimic tongue, that never tires, Keeps up the hearty din! Each face is then Its neighbour’s glass–where Gladness sees itself, And at the bright reflection grows more glad! Breaks into tenfold mirth!–laughs like a child! Would make a gift of its heart, it is so free! Would scarce accept a kingdom, ’tis so rich! Shakes hands with all, and vows it never knew That life was life before! Wild. Nay, every wayYou do fair justice, lady, to the chase; But fancies change. Con. Such fancy is not mine. Wild. I would it were not mine, for your fair sake. I have quite given o’er the chase. Con. You say not so! Wild. Forsworn, indeed, the sportsman’s life, and grown, As you may partly see, town-gentleman.I care not now to mount a steed, unless To amble ‘long the street; no paces mind, Except my own, to walk the drawing-room, Or in the ball-room to come off with grace; No leap for me, to match the light coupe; No music like the violin and harp,To which the huntsman’s dog and horn I find Are somewhat coarse and homely minstrelsy: Then fields of ill-dressed rustics, you’ll confess, Are well exchanged for rooms of beaux and belles In short, I’ve ta’en another thought of life – Become another man! Con. The cause, I pray? Wild. The cause of causes, lady. Con. He’s in love! [Aside.] Wild. To you, of women, I would name it last; Yet your frank bearing merits like return; I, that did hunt the game, am caught myself In chase I never dreamed of! [Goes out.] Con. He is in love!Wildrake’s in love! ‘Tis that keeps him in town, Turns him from sportsman to town-gentleman. I never dreamed that he could be in love! In love with whom?–I’ll find the vixen out! What right has she to set her cap at him? I warrant me, a forward, artful minx;I hate him worse than ever. I’ll do all I can to spoil the match. He’ll never marry – Sure he will never marry! He will haveMore sense than that! My back doth ope and shut – My temples throb and shoot–I am cold and hot! Were he to marry, there would be an endTo neighbour Constance–neighbour Wildrake–why, I should not know myself! [Enter TRUEWORTH.] Dear Master Trueworth,What think you!–neighbour Wildrake is in love! In love! Would you believe it, Master Trueworth? Ne’er heed my dress and looks, but answer me. Knowest thou of any lady he has seenThat’s like to cozen him? True. I am not sure –We talked to-day about the Widow Green! Con. Her that my father fancies. Let him wed her! Marry her to-morrow–if he will, to-night. I can’t spare neighbour Wildrake–neighbour Wildrake! Although I would not marry him myself,I could not hear that other married him! Go to my father–’tis a proper match!He has my leave! He’s welcome to bring home The Widow Green. I’ll give up house and all! She would be mad to marry neighbour Wildrake; He would wear out her patience–plague her to death, As he does me. She must not marry him! [They go out.] ACT III. SCENE I.–A Room in Widow Green’s. [Enter MASTER WALLER, following LYDIA.] Wal. But thou shalt hear me, gentle Lydia. Sweet maiden, thou art frightened at thyself! Thy own perfections ’tis that talk to thee. Thy beauty rich!–thy richer grace!–thy mind, More rich again than that, though richest each! Except for these, I had no tongue for thee, Eyes for thee!–ears!–had never followed thee! – Had never loved thee, Lydia! Hear me! – Lydia. LoveShould seek its match. No match am I for thee. Wal. Right! Love should seek its match; and that is, love Or nothing! Station–fortune–find their match In things resembling them. They are not love! Comes love (that subtle essence, without which Life were but leaden dulness!–weariness! A plodding trudger on a heavy road!)Comes it of title-deeds which fools may boast? Or coffers vilest hands may hold the keys of? Or that ethereal lamp that lights the eyes To shed the sparkling lustre o’er the face, Gives to the velvet skin its blushing glow, And burns as bright beneath the peasant’s roof As roof of palaced prince? Yes, Love should seek Its match–then give my love its match in thine, Its match which in thy gentle breast doth lodge So rich–so earthly, heavenly fair and rich, As monarchs have no thought of on their thrones, Which kingdoms do bear up. Lydia. Wast thou a monarch,Me wouldst thou make thy queen? Wal. I would. Lydia. What! PassA princess by for me? Wal. I would. Lydia. SupposeThy subjects would prevent thee? Wal. Then, in spiteOf them! Lydia. Suppose they were too strong for thee? Wal. Why, then I’d give them up my throne–content With that thou’dst yield me in thy gentle breast. Lydia. Can subjects do what monarchs do? Wal. Far more!Far less! Lydia. Among those things, where more their power, Is marriage one? Wal. Yes. Lydia. And no part of love,You say, is rank or wealth? Wal. No part of love. Lydia. Is marriage part of love? Wal. At times it is,At times is not. Men love and marry–love And marry not. Lydia. Then have they not the power;So must they hapless part with those they love. Wal. Oh, no! not part! How could they love and part? Lydia. How could they love not part, not free to wed? Wal. Alone in marriage doth not union lie! Lydia. Alone where hands are free! O yes–alone! Love that is love, bestoweth all it can! It is protection, if ’tis anything,Which nothing in its object leaves exposed Its care can shelter. Love that’s free to wed, Not wedding, but profanes the name of love; Which is, on high authority to Earth’s,For Heaven did sit approving at its feast, A holy thing! Why make you love to me?Women whose hearts are free, by nature tender, Their fancies hit by those they are besought by, Do first impressions quickly–deeply take; And, balked in their election, have been known To droop a whole life through! Gain for a maid, A broken heart!–to barter her young love, And find she changed it for a counterfeit! Wal. If there is truth in man, I love thee! Hear me! In wedlock, families claim property.Old notions, which we needs must humour often, Bar us to wed where we are forced to love! Thou hear’st? Lydia. I do. Wal. My family is proud;Our ancestor, whose arms we bear, did win An earldom by his deeds. ‘Tis not enough I please myself! I must please others, who Desert in wealth and station only see.Thou hear’st? Lydia. I do. Wal. I cannot marry thee,And must I lose thee? Do not turn away! Without the altar I can honour thee!Can cherish thee, nor swear it to the priest; For more than life I love thee! Lydia. Say thou hatest me,And I’ll believe thee! Wherein differs love From hate, to do the work of hate–destroy? Thy ancestor won title to his deeds!Was one of them, to teach an honest maid The deed of sin–first steal her love, and then Her virtue? If thy family is proud,Mine, sir, is worthy! if we are poor, the lack Of riches, sir, is not the lack of shame, That I should act a part, would raise a blush, Nor fear to burn an honest brother’s cheek! Thou wouldest share a throne with me! Thou wouldst rob me of A throne!–reduce me from dominion toBase vassalage!–pull off my crown for me, And give my forehead in its place a brand! You have insulted me. To shew you, sir,The heart you make so light of, you are beloved – But she that tells you so, tells you beside She ne’er beholds you more! [Goes out.] Wal. Stay, Lydia!–No!‘Tis vain! She is in virtue resolute, As she is bland and tender in affection. She is a miracle, beholding whichWonder doth grow on wonder! What a maid! No mood but doth become her–yea, adorn her. She turns unsightly anger into beauty!Sour scorn grows sweetness, touching her sweet lips! And indignation, lighting on her brow,Transforms to brightness as the cloud to gold That overhangs the sun! I love her! Ay!And all the throes of serious passion feel At thought of losing her!–so my light love, Which but her person did at first affect, Her soul has metamorphosed–made a thing Of solid thoughts and wishes–I must have her! [Enter WIDOW GREEN, unnoticed SIR WALLER, who continues abstracted.] W. Green. What! Master Waller, and contemplative Presumptive proof of love! Of me he thinks! Revolves the point “to be or not to be!” “To be!” by all the triumphs of my sex!There was a sigh! My life upon’t, that sigh, If construed, would translate “Dear Widow Green!” Wal. Enchanting woman! W. Green. That is I!–most deepAbstraction, sure concomitant of love. Now, could I see his busy fancy’s painting, How should I blush to gaze upon myself. Wal. The matchless form of woman! The choice calling Of the aspiring artist, whose ambitionRobs Nature to outdo her–the perfections Of her rare various workmanship combines To aggrandise his art at Nature’s cost,And make a paragon! W. Green. Gods! how he draws me!Soon as he sees me, at my feet he falls! – Good Master Waller! Wal. Ha! The Widow Green! W. Green. He is confounded! So am I. O dear! How catching is emotion. He can’t speak! O beautiful confusion! AmiableExcess of modesty with passion struggling! Now comes he to declare himself, but wants The courage. I must help him.–Master Waller! [Enter SIR WILLIAM FONDLOVE.] Sir Wil. Dear Widow Green! W. Green. Sir William Fondlove! Wal. ThankMy lucky stars! [Aside.] W. Green. I would he had the gout,And kept his room! [Aside.]–You’re welcome, dear Sir William! ‘Tis very, very kind of you to call.Sir William Fondlove–Master Waller. Pray Be seated, gentlemen.–He shall requite me For his untimely visit. Though the nailBe driven home, it may want clinching yet To make the hold complete! For that, I’ll use him.–[Aside.] You’re looking monstrous well, Sir William! and No wonder. You’re a mine of happy spirits! Some women talk of such and such a style Of features in a man. Give me good humour; That lights the homeliest visage up with beauty, And makes the face, where beauty is already, Quite irresistible! Sir Wil. That’s hitting hard. [Aside.] Dear Widow Green, don’t say so! On my life You flatter me. You almost make me blush. W. Green. I durst not turn to Master Waller now, Nor need I. I can fancy how he looks!I warrant me he scowls on poor Sir William, As he could eat him up. I must improveHis discontent, and so make sure of him.–[Aside.] I flatter you, Sir William! O, you men!You men, that talk so meek, and all the while Do know so well your power! Who would think You had a marriageable daughter! YouDid marry very young. Sir Wil. A boy!–a boy!Who knew not his own mind. W. Green. Your daughter’s twenty.Come, you at least were twenty when you married; That makes you forty. Sir Wil. O dear! Widow Green. W. Green. Not forty? Sir Wil. You do quite embarrass me!I own I have the feelings of a boy, The freshness and the glow of spring-time, yet, – The relish yet for my young schooldays’ sports; Could whip a top–could shoot at taw–could play At prison-bars and leapfrog–so I might – Not with a limb, perhaps, as supple, but With quite as supple will. Yet I confess To more than forty! W. Green. Do you say so? Well,I’ll never guess a man’s age by his looks Again.–Poor Master Waller! He must writhe To hear I think Sir William is so young. I’ll turn his visit yet to more account.–[Aside.] A handsome ring, Sir William, that you wear! Sir Wil. Pray look at it. W. Green. The mention of a ringWill take away his breath. Wal. She must be mineWhate’er her terms! [Aside.] W. Green. I’ll steal a look at him! Wal. What! though it be the ring?–the marriage ring? If that she sticks at, she deserves to wear it Oh, the debate which love and prudence hold! [Aside.] W. Green. How highly he is wrought upon! His hands Are clenched!–I warrant me his frame doth shake! Poor Master Waller! I have filled his heart Brimful with passion for me. The delight Of proving thus my power! Sir Wil. Dear Widow Green! –She hears not! How the ring hath set her thinking! I’ll try and make her jealous. [Aside.]–Widow Green! W. Green. Sir William Fondlove! Sir Wil. Would you think that ringCould tell a story? W. Green. Could it? Ah, Sir William,I fear you are a rogue. Sir Wil. O no! W. Green. You are! Sir Wil. No, on my honour! Would you like to hear The story of the ring? W. Green. Much–very much. Sir Wil. Think’st we may venture draw our chairs apart A little more from Master Waller? W. Green. Yes.He’ll bring it to a scene! Dear–dear Sir William, How much I am obliged to him! A scene!Gods, we shall have a scene!–Good Master Waller, Your leave I pray you for a minute, while Sir William says a word or two to me. –He durst not trust his tongue for jealousy!–[Aside.] Now, dear Sir William! Sir Wil. You must promise meYou will not think me vain. W. Green. No fear of that. Sir Wil. Nor given to boast. W. Green. O! dear Sir William! Sir Wil. NorA flirt! W. Green. O! who would take you for a flirt? Sir Wil. How very kind you are! W. Green. Go on, Sir William. Sir Wil. Upon my life, I fear you’ll think me vain! I’m covered with confusion at the thought Of what I’ve done. ‘Twas very, very wrong To promise you the story of the ring;Men should not talk of such things. W. Green. Such as what?As ladies’ favours? Sir Wil. ‘Pon my life, I feelAs I were like to sink into the earth. W. Green. A lady then it was gave you the ring? Sir Wil. Don’t ask me to say yes, but only scan The inside of the ring.–How much she’s moved. [Aside.] Wal. They to each other company enough! I, company for no one but myself.I’ll take my leave, nor trouble them to pay The compliments of parting. Lydia! Lydia! [Goes out.] W. Green. What’s here? “Eliza!” So it was a lady! – How wondrously does Master Waller bear it! He surely will not hold much longer out.–[Aside.] Sir William! Nay, look up! What cause to cast Your eyes upon the ground? What an it were A lady? Sir Wil. You’re not angry? W. Green. No! Sir Wil. She is.I’ll take the tone she speaks in ‘gainst the word, For fifty crowns.–I have not told you all About the ring; though I would sooner die Than play the braggart!–yet, as truth is truth, And told by halves, may from a simple thing, By misconstruction, to a monster grow,I’ll tell the whole truth! W. Green. Dear Sir William, do! Sir Wil. The lady was a maid, and very young; Nor there in justice to her must I stop, But say that she was beautiful as young; And add to that that she was learned too, Almost enough to win for her that title, Our sex, in poor conceit of their own merits, And narrow spirit of monopoly,And jealousy, which gallantry eschews, Do give to women who assert their rightTo minds as well as we. W. Green. What! a blue-stocking? Sir Wil. I see–she’ll come to calling names at last.–[Aside.] I should offend myself to quote the term. But, to return, for yet I have not done; And further yet may go, then progress on That she was young, that she was beautiful. A wit and learned are naught to what’s to come – She had a heart! – W. Green. [Who during SIR WILLIAM’S speech has turned gradually.] What, Master Waller gone! [Aside.] Sir Wil. I say she had a heart – W. Green. [Starting up–SIR WILLIAM also.] A plague upon her! Sir Wil. I knew she would break out! [Aside.] W. Green. Here, take the ring. It has ruined me! Sir Wil. I vow thou hast no causeFor anger! W. Green. Have I not? I am undone,And all about that bauble of a ring. Sir Wil. You’re right, it is a bauble. W. Green. And the minxThat gave it thee! Sir Wil. You’re right, she was a minx. I knew she’d come to calling names at last. [Aside.] W. Green. Sir William Fondlove, leave me. Sir Wil. Widow Green! – W. Green. You have undone me, sir! Sir Wil. Don’t say so! Don’t!It was a girl–a child gave me the ring! W. Green. Do you hear me, sir? I bade you leave me. Sir Wil. IfI thought you were so jealous – W. Green. Jealous, sir!Sir William! quit my house. Sir Wil. A little girlTo make you jealous! W. Green. Sir, you’ll drive me mad! Sir Wil. A child, a perfect child, not ten years old! W. Green. Sir, I would be alone, sir! Sir Wil. Young enoughTo dandle still her doll! W. Green. Sir William Fondlove! Sir Wil. Dear Widow Green! W. Green. I hate you, sir! Detest you! Never wish To see you more! You have ruined me! Undone me! A blighted life I wear, and all through you! The fairest hopes that ever woman nourished, You’ve cankered in the very blowing! bloom And sweet destroyed, and nothing left me, but The melancholy stem. Sir Wil. And all aboutA little slut I gave a rattle to! – Would pester me for gingerbread and comfits! – A little roguish feigning! A love-trickI played to prove your love! W. Green. Sir William Fondlove!If of my own house you’ll not suffer me To be the mistress, I will leave it to you! Sir Wil. Dear Widow Green! The ring – W. Green. Confound the ring,The donor of it, thee, and everything! [Goes out.] Sir Wil. She is over head and ears in love with me! She’s mad with love! There’s love and all its signs! She’s jealous of me unto very death!Poor Widow Green! I warrant she is now In tears! I think I hear her sob! Poor thing! Sir William! Oh, Sir William! You have raised A furious tempest! Set your wits to work To turn it to a calm. No question thatShe loves me! None then that she’ll take me! So I’ll have the marriage settlements made out To-morrow, and a special licence got,And marry her the next day! I will make Quick work of it, and take her by surprise! Who but a widower a widow’s match?What could she see with else but partial eyes To guess me only forty? I’m a wonder!What shall I pass for in my wedding suit? I vow I am a puzzle to myself,As well as all the world besides. Odd’s life! To win the heart of buxom Widow Green! [Goes out.] [WIDOW GREEN re-enters with LYDIA.] W. Green. At last the dotard’s gone! Fly, Lydia, fly, This letter bear to Master Waller straight; Quick, quick, or I’m undone! He is abused, And I must undeceive him–own my love,And heart and hand at his disposal lay. Answer me not, my girl–obey me! Fly. [Goes out.] Lydia. Untowardly it falls!–I had resolved This hour to tell her I must quit her service! Go to his house! I will not disobeyHer last commands!–I’ll leave it at the door, And as it closes on me think I takeOne more adieu of him! Hard destiny! [Goes out.] SCENE II.–A Room in Sir William’s. [Enter CONSTANCE.] Con. The booby! He must fall in love, indeed! And now he’s naught but sentimental looks And sentences, pronounced ‘twixt breath and voice! And attitudes of tender languishment!Nor can I get from him the name of her Hath turned him from a stock into a fool. He hems and haws, now titters, now looks grave! Begins to speak and halts! takes off his eyes To fall in contemplation on a chair,A table, or the ceiling, wall, or floor! I’ll plague him worse and worse! O, here he comes! [Enter WILDRAKE.] Wild. Despite her spiteful usage I’m resolved To tell her now. Dear neighbour Constance! Con. Fool!Accost me like a lady, sir! I hateThe name of neighbour! Wild. Mistress Constance, then –I’ll call thee that. Con. Don’t call me anything!I hate to hear thee speak–to look at thee, To dwell in the same house with thee! Wild. In whatHave I offended? Con. What!–I hate an ape! Wild. An ape! Con. Who bade thee ape the gentleman? And put on dress that don’t belong to thee? Go! change thee with thy whipper-in or huntsman, And none will doubt thou wearest thy own clothes. Wild. A pretty pass! Mocked for the very dress I bought to pleasure her! Untoward things Are women! [Aside. Walks backwards and forwards.] Con. Do you call that walking? PrayWhat makes you twist your body so, and take Such pains to turn your toes out? If you’d walk, Walk thus! Walk like a man, as I do now! [Walking] Is yours the way a gentleman should walk? You neither walk like man nor gentleman! I’ll show you how you walk. [Mimicking him.] Do you call that walking? Wild. My thanks, for a drill-sergeant twice a day For her sake! [Aside.] Con. Now, of all things in the world, What made you dance last night? Wild. What made me dance? Con. Right! It was anything but dancing! Steps That never came from dancing-school–nor English, Nor Scotch, nor Irish! You must try to cut, And how you did it! [Cuts.] That’s the way to cut! And then your chasse! Thus you went, and thus. [Mimicking him.] As though you had been playing at hop, step, And jump!–and yet you looked so monstrous pleased, And played the simpleton with such a grace, Taking their tittering for compliment!I could have boxed you soundly for’t. Ten times Denied I that I knew you. Wild. Twenty guineasWere better in the gutter thrown than gone To fee a dancing-master! [Aside.] Con. And you’re grownAn amateur in music!–What fine air Was that you praised last night?–“The Widow Jones!” A country jig they turned into a song.You asked “If it had come from Italy?” The lady blushed and held her peace, and then You blushed and said, “Perhaps it came from France!” And then when blushed the lady more, nor spoke, You said, “At least it came from Germany!” The air was English!–a true English air; A downright English air!–a common air;Old as “When Good King Arthur.” Not a square, Court, alley, street, or lane about the town, In which it is not whistled, played, or sung! But you must have it come from Italy,Or Germany, or France. Go home! Go home! To Lincolnshire, and mind thy dog and horn! You’ll never do for town! “The Widow Jones” To come from Italy! Stay not in town,Or you’ll be married to the Widow Jones, Since you’ve forsworn, you say, the Widow Green! And morn and night they’ll din your ears with her! “Well met, dear Master Wildrake. A fine day! Pray, can you tell whence came the Widow Jones?” They love a jest in town! To Lincolnshire! You’ll never do for town! To Lincolnshire;