BUSIE BODY. (continued 2)

Miran. Well, if you have such Love and Tenderness, (since our Woing has been short) pray reserve it for our future Days, to let the World see we are Lovers after Wedlock; 'twill be a Novelty—

Sir Geo. Haste then, and let us tye the Knot, and prove the envy'd Pair—

Miran. Hold! not so fast, I have provided better than to venture on dangerous Experiments headlong— My Guardian, trusting to my dissembled Love, has given up my Fortune to my own dispose; but with this Proviso, that he to Morrow morning weds me. He is now gone to Doctors Commons for a License.

Sir Geo. Ha, a License!

Miran. But I have planted Emissaries that infallibly take him down to Epsom, under pretence that a Brother Usurer of his, is to make him his Executor; the thing on Earth he covets.

Sir Geo. 'Tis his known Character.

Miran. Now my Instruments confirm him, this Man is dying, and he sends me word he goes this Minute; it must be to Morrow e'er he can be undeceiv'd. That time is ours.

Sir Geo. Let us improve it then, and settle on our coming Years, endless, endless Happiness.

Miran. I dare not stir till I hear he's on the Road—then I and my Writings, the most material point, are soon removed.

Sir Geo. I have one Favour to ask, if it lies in your power, you wou'd be a Friend to poor Charles, tho' the Son of this tenacious Man: He is as free from all his Vices, as Nature and a good Education can make him; and what now I have vanity enough to hope will induce you, he is the Man on Earth I love.

Miran. I never was his Enemy, and only put it on as it help'd my Designs on his Father. If his Uncle's Estate ought to be in his Possession, which I shrewdly suspect, I may do him a singular piece of Service.

Sir Geo. You are all Goodness.

Enter Scentwell.

Scentw. Oh, Madam, my Master and Mr. Marplot are just coming into the House.

Miran. Undone, undone! if he finds you here in this Crisis, all my Plots are unravell'd.

Sir Geo. What shall I do! can't I get back into the Garden?

Scentw. Oh, no! he comes up those Stairs.

Miran. Here, here, here! can you condescend to stand behind this Chimney-Board, Sir George?

Sir Geo. Any where, any where, dear Madam, without Ceremony.

Scentw. Come, come, Sir; lie close—

(They put him behind the Chimney-Board.

Enter Sir Francis and Marplot: Sir Francis peeling an Orange.

Sir Fran. I cou'd not go, tho' 'tis upon Life and Death, without taking leave of dear Chargee. Besides, this Fellow buz'd in my Ears, that thou might'st be so desperate to shoot that wild Rake which haunts the Garden-Gate; and that wou'd bring us into Trouble, dear—

Miran. So, Marplot brought you back then: I am oblig'd to him for that, I'm sure—

(Frowning at Marplot aside.

Marpl. By her Looks she means she is not oblig'd to me. I have done some Mischief now, but what I can't imagine.

Sir Fran. Well, Chargee, I have had three Messengers to come to Epsom to my Neighbour Squeezum's who, for all his vast Riches, is departing.

(Sighs.

Marpl. Ay, see what all you Usurers must come to.

Sir Fran. Peace, ye young Knave! Some Forty Years hence I may think on't— But, Chargee, I'll be with thee to Morrow, before those pretty Eyes are open; I will, I will, Chargee, I'll rouze you, I saith.— Here Mrs. Scentwell, lift up your Lady's Chimney-Board, that I may throw my Peel in, and not litter her Chamber.

Miran. Oh my Stars! what will become of us now?

Scentw. Oh, pray Sir, give it me; I love it above all things in Nature, indeed I do.

Sir Fran. No, no, Hussy; you have the Green Pip already, I'll have no more Apothecary's Bills.

(Goes towards the Chimney.

Miran. Hold, hold, hold, dear Gardee, I have a, a, a, a, a Monkey shut up there; and if you open it before the Man comes that is to tame it, 'tis so wild 'twill break all my China, or get away, and that wou'd break my Heart; for I am fond on't to Distraction, next thee, dear Gardee.

(In a flattering Tone.

Sir Fran. Well, well, Chargee, I wont open it; she shall have her Monkey, poor Rogue; here throw this Peel out of the Window.

(Exit Scentwell.

Marpl. A Monkey, dear Madam, let me see it; I can tame a Monkey as well as the best of them all. Oh how I love the little Minatures of Man.

Miran. Be quiet, Mischief, and stand farther from the Chimney— You shall not see my Monkey—why sure—

(Striving with him.

Marpl. For Heaven's sake, dear Madam, let me but peep, to see if it be as pretty as my Lady Fiddle-Faddle's. Has it got a Chain?

Miran. Not yet, but I design it one shall last its Life-time: Nay, you shall not see it— Look, Gardee, how he teazes me!

Sir Fran. (Getting between him and the Chimney.) Sirrah, Sirrah, let my Chargee's Monkey alone, or Bambo shall fly about your Ears. What is there no dealing with you?

Marpl. Pugh, pox of the Monkey! here's a Rout: I wish he may Rival you.

Enter a Servant.

Serv. Sir, they put two more Horses in the Coach, as you order'd, and 'tis ready at the Door.

Sir Fran. Well, I'm going to be Executor, better for thee, Jewel. B'ye Chargee, one Buss!— I'm glad thou hast got a a Monkey to divert thee a little.

Miran. Thank'e, dear Gardee.— Nay, I'll see you to the Coach.

Sir Fran. That's kind, adod.

Miran. Come along, Impertinence.

(To Marplot.

Marpl. (Stepping back.) Egad, I will see the Monkey: Now (Lifts up the Board, and discovers Sir George.) Oh Lord, Oh Lord! Thieves, Thieves, Murder!

Sir Geo. Dam'e, you unlucky Dog! 'tis I, which way shall I get out, shew me instantly, or I'll cut your Throat.

Marpl. Undone, undone! At that Door there. But hold, hold, break that China, and I'll bring you off.

(He runs off at the Corner, and throws down some China.

Re-enter Sir Francis, Miranda, and Scentwell.

Sir Fran. Mercy on me! what's the matter?

Miran. Oh, you Toad! what have you done?

Marpl. No great harm, I beg of you to forgive me: Longing to see the Monkey, I did but just raise up the Board, and it flew over my Shoulders, scratch'd all my Face, broke yon' China, and whisk'd out of the Window.

Sir Fran. Was ever such an unlucky Rogue! Sirrah, I forbid you my House. Call the Servants to get the Monkey again; I wou'd stay my self to look it, but that you know my earnest Business.

Scentw. Oh my Lady will be the best to lure it back; all them Creatures love my Lady extremely.

Miran. Go, go, dear Gardee; I hope I shall recover it.

Sir Fran. B'ye, by'e, Dear'e. Ah, Mischief, how you look now! B'ye, b'ye.

(Exit.

Miran. Scentwell, see him in the Coach, and bring me word.

Scentw. Yes, Madam.

Miran. So, Sir, you have done your Friend a signal piece of Service, I suppose.

Marpl. Why look you, Madam! if I have committed a fault, thank your self; no Man is more Serviceable when I am let into a Secret, nor none more Unlucky at finding it out. Who cou'd divine your Meaning, when you talk'd of a Blunderbuss, who thought of a Rendevous? and when you talk'd of a Monkey, who the Devil dreamt of Sir George?

Miran. A sign you converse but little with our Sex, when you can't reconcile Contradictions.

Enter Scentwell.

Scentw. He's gone, Madam, as fast as the Coach, and Six can carry him.

Enter Sir George.

Sir Geo. Then I may appear.

Marpl. Dear, Sir George, make my Peace! On my Soul, I did not think of you.

Sir Geo. I dare swear thou didst not. Madam, I beg you to forgive him.

Miran. Well, Sir George, if he can be secret.

I Marpl. Ods heart, Madam, I'm as secret as a Priest when I'm trusted.

Sir Geo. Why 'tis with a Priest our Business is at present.

Scentw. Madam, here's Mrs. Isabinda's Woman to wait on you.

Miran. Bring her up.

Enter Patch.

How do'e, Mrs. Patch, what News from your Lady?

Patch. That's for your private Ear, Madam. Sir George, there's a Friend of yours has an urgent Occasion for your Assistance.

Sir Geo. His Name.

Patch. Charles.

Marpl. Ha! then there is something a-foot that I know nothing of. I'll wait on you, Sir George.

Sir Geo. A third Person may not be proper perhaps; as soon as I have dispatch'd my own Affairs, I am at his Service. I'll send my Servant to tell him, I'll wait upon him in half an Hour.

Miran. How come you employ'd in this Message, Mrs. Patch?

Patch. Want of Business, Madam. I am discharg'd by my Master, but hope to serve my Lady still.

Miran. How discharg'd! you must tell me the whole Story within.

Patch. With all my Heart, Madam.

Marpl. Pish! Pox, I wish I were fairly out of the House. I find Marriage is the end of this Secret: And now I am half mad to know what Charles wants him for.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Madam, I'm doubly press'd, by Love and Friendship: This Exigence admits of no delay. Shall we make Marplot of the Party?

Miran. If you'll run the Hazard, Sir George; I believe he means well.

Marpl. Nay, nay, for my part, I desire to be let into nothing: I'll begon, therefore pray don't mistrust me.

(Going.

Sir Geo. So now has he a mind to be gone to Charles: but not knowing what Affairs he may have upon his Hands at present, I'm resolv'd he sha'n't stir: No, Mr. Marplot, you must not leave us, we want a third Person.

(Takes hold of him.

Marpl. I never had more mind to be gone in my Life.

Miran. Come along then; if we fail in the Voyage, thank your self for taking this ill starr'd Gentleman on Board.

Sir Geo.

The End of the Fourth ACT.

ACT the Fifth.

Enter Miranda, Patch, and Scentwell.

Miran. WELL, Patch, I have done a strange bold thing! my Fate is determin'd, and Expectation is no more. Now to avoid the Impertinence and Roguery of an old Man, I have thrown my self into the Extravagance of a young one; if he shou'd despise, slight or use me ill, there's no Remedy from a Husband, but the Grave; and that's a terrible Sanctuary to one of my Age and Constitution.

Patch. O fear not, Madam, you'll find your account in Sir George Airy; it is impossible a Man of Sense shou'd use a Woman ill, indued with Beauty, Wit and Fortune. It must be the Lady's fault, if she does not wear the unfashionable Name of Wife easie, when nothing but Complaisance and good Humour is requisite on either side to make them happy.

Miran. I long till I am out of this House, lest any Accident shou'd bring my Guardian back. Scentwell, put my best Jewels into the little Casket, slip them, into thy Pocket, and let us march off to Sir. Jealous's.

Scentw. It shall be done, Madam.

(Exit Scentwell.

I2 Patch. Sir George will be impatient, Madam; if their Plot succeeds, we shall be well receiv'd; if not, he will be able to protect us. Besides, I long to know how my young Lady fares.

Miran. Farewell, old Mammon, and thy detested Walls; 'twill be no more sweet Sir Francis, I shall be compell'd to the odious Task of Dissembling no longer to get my own, and coax him with the wheedling Names of my Precious, my Dear, dear Gardee. Oh Heavens!

Enter Sir Francis behind.

Sir Fran. Ah, my sweet Chargee, don't be frighted. (She starts.) But thy poor Gardee has been abused, cheated, fool'd, betray'd, but no Body knows by whom.

Miran. (Aside.) Undone! past Redemption.

Sir Fran. What won't you speak to me, Chargee!

Miran. I'm so surpriz'd with Joy to see you, I know not what to say.

Sir Fran. Poor, dear Girl! But do'e know that my Son, or some such Rogue, to rob or murder me, or both, contriv'd this Journey? For upon the Road I met my Neighbour Squeezum well, and coming to Town.

Miran. Good lack, good lack! what Tricks are there in this World!

Enter Scentwell, with a Diamond Necklace in her Hand; not seeing Sir Francis.

Scentw. Madam, be pleas'd to tye this Neck-lace on; for I can't get it into the—

(Seeing Sir Francis.

Miran. The Wench is a Fool, I think! cou'd you not have carry'd it to be mended, without putting it in the Box?

Sir Fran. What's the matter?

Miran. Only Dear'e, I bid her, I bid her— Your ill Usage has put every thing out of my Head. But won't you go, Gardee, and find out these Fellows, and have them punish'd! and, and—

Sir Fran. Where shou'd I look them, Child? No I'll sit me down contented with my Safety, nor stir out of my own Doors, till I go with thee to a Parson.

Miran. (Aside.) If he goes into his Closet I am ruin'd. Oh! bless me in this Fright, I had forgot Mrs. Patch.

Patch. Ay, Madam, and I stay for your speedy Answer.

Miran. (Aside.) I must get him out of the House. Now assist me Fortune.

Sir Fran. Mrs. Patch, I profess I did not see you, how dost thou do, Mrs. Patch; well don't you repent leaving my Chargee?

Patch. Yes, every body must love her—but I came now— Madam, what did I come for, my Invention is at the last Ebb.

(Aside to Miranda.

Sir Fran. Nay, never Whisper, tell me.

Miran. She came, dear Gardee to invite me to her Lady's Wedding, and you shall go with me Gardee, 'tis to be done this Moment to a Spanish Merchant; Old Sir Jealous keeps on his Humour, the first Minute he sees her, the next he marries her.

Sir Fran. Ha, ha, ha, I'd go if I thought the sight of Matrimony wou'd tempt Chargee to perform her Promise: There was a smile, there was a consenting Look with those pretty Twinklers, worth a Million. Ods precious, I am happier than the Great Mogul, the Emperour of China, or all the Potentates that are not in Wars. Speak, confirm it, make me leap out of my Skin.

Miran. When one has resolv'd, 'tis in vain to stand shall I, shall I, if ever I marry, positively this is my Wedding Day.

Sir Fran. Oh! happy, happy Man— Verily I will beget a Son, the first Night shall disinherit that Dog, Charles. I have Estate enough to purchase a Barony, and be the immortalizing the whole Family of the Gripes.

Miran. Come then Gardee, give me thy Hand, let's to this House of Hymen.

Sir Fran.

Miran.

(Exeunt.

Enter Sir Jealous meeting a Servant.

Serv. Sir, here's a couple of Gentlemen enquire for you; one of 'em calls himself Seignor Diego Babinetto.

Sir Jeal. Ha! Seignor Babinetto! Admit 'em instantly— Joyful Minute; I'll have my Daughter marry'd to Night.

Enter Charles in Spanish Habit, with Sir George drest like a Merchant.

Sir Jeal. Senior, beso Las Manos vuestra merced es muy bien venido en esta tierra.

Char. Senhor, soy muy humilde, y muy obligado Cryado de vuestra merced: Mi Padre Embia a vuestra merced, los mas profondos de sus respetos; y a Commissionado este Mercadel Ingles, de concluyr un negocio, que me Haze el mas dichoso hombre del mundo, Haziendo me su yerno.

Sir Jeal. I am glad on't, for I find I have lost much of my Spanish. Sir, I am your most humble Servant. Seignor Don Diego Babinetto has inform'd me that you are Commission'd by Seignor Don Pedro, &c. his worthy Father.

Sir Geo. To see an Affair of Marriage Consummated between a Daughter of yours, and Seignor Diego Babinetto his Son here. True, Sir, such a Trust is repos'd in me as that Letter will inform you. I hope 'twill pass upon him. (Aside.)

(Gives him a Letter.

Sir Jeal. Ay, 'tis his Hand.

(Seems to read.

Sir Geo. Good —— you have counterfeited to a Nicety, Charles.

(Aside to Charles.

Char. If the whole Plot succeeds as well, I'm happy.

Sir Jeal. Sir I find by this, that you are a Man of Honour and Probity; I think, Sir, he calls you Meanwell.

Sir Geo. Meanwell is my Name, Sir.

Sir Jeal. A very good Name, and very Significant.

Char. Yes, Faith if he knew all.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. For to Mean-well is to be honest, and to be honest is the Virtue of a Friend, and a Friend is the Delight and Support of Human Society.

Sir Geo. You shall find that I'll Discharge the part of a Friend in what I have undertaken, Sir Jealous.

Char. But little does he think to whom.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Therefore, Sir, I must intreat the Presence of your fair Daughter, and the Assistance of your Chaplain; for Seignor Don Pedro strictly enjoyn'd me to see the Marriage Rites perform'd as soon as we should arrive, to avoid the Accidental Overtures of Venus.

Sir Jeal. Overtures of Venus!

Sir Geo. Ay, Sir, that is, those little Hawking Females that traverse the Park, and the Play-house to put off their damag'd Ware—they fasten upon Foreigners like Leeches, and watch their Arrival as carefully, as the Kentish Men do a Ship-wreck. I warrant you they have heard of him already.

Sir Jeal. Nay, I know this Town swarms with them.

Sir Geo. Ay, and then you know the Spaniards are naturally Amorous, but very Constant, the first Face fixes 'em, and it may be dangerous to let him ramble e'er he is tied.

Char. Well hinted.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. Pat to my Purpose— Well, Sir, there is but one thing more, and they shall be married instantly.

Char. Pray Heaven, that one thing more don't spoil all.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. Don Pedro writ me Word in his last but one, that he design'd the Sum of Five Thousand Crowns by way of Joynture for my Daughter; and that it shou'd be paid into my Hand upon the Day of Marriage.

Char. Oh! the Devil.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. In order to lodge it in some of our Funds, in case she should become a Widow, and return for England.

Sir Geo. Pox on't, this is an unlucky Turn. What shall I say?

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. And he does not mention one Word of it in this Letter.

Char. I don't know how he should.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Humph! True, Sir Jealous, he told me such a Thing, but, but, but, but—he, he, he, he—he did not imagine that you would insist upon the very Day, for, for, for, for Money you know is dangerous returning by Sea, an, an, an, an—

Char. Zounds, say we have brought it in Commodities.

(Aside to Sir George.

Sir Geo. And so Sir, he has sent it in Merchandize, Tobacco, Sugars, Spices, Limons, and so forth, which shall be turn'd into Money with all Expedition: In the mean time, Sir, if you please to accept of my Bond for Performance.

Sir Jeal. It is enough, Sir, I am so pleas'd with the Countenance of Seignor Diego, and the Harmony of your Name, that I'll take your Word, and will fetch my Daughter this Moment. Within there (Enter Servant) desire Mr. Tackum my Neighbour's Chaplain to walk hither.

Serv. Yes, Sir.

(Exit.

Sir Jeal. Gentlemen, I'll return in an Instant.

(Exit.

Char. Wondrous well. Let me embrace thee.

Sir Geo. Egad that 5000 l. had like to have ruin'd the Plot.

Char. But that's over! And if Fortune throws no more Rubs in our way.

Sir Geo. Thou'lt carry the Prize—but hist, here he comes.

Enter Sir Jealous, dragging in Isabinda.

Sir Jeal. Come along, you stubborn Baggage you, come along.

Isab.

Sir Jeal. How's that!

Isab.

Char. Oh! that I cou'd discover my self to her.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Have a care what you do. You had better trust to his Obstinacy.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. Did you ever see such a perverse Slut: Off I say Mr. Meanwell pray help me a little.

Sir Geo. Rise, Madam, and do not disoblige your Father, who has provided a Husband worthy of you, one that will Love you equal with his Soul, and one that you will Love, when once you know him.

Isab. Oh! never, never. Cou'd I suspect that Falshood in my Heart, I wou'd this Moment tear it from my Breast, and streight present him with the Treacherous Part.

Char. Oh! my charming faithful Dear.

(Aside.

Sir Jeal. Falshood! why, who the Devil are you in Love with? Ha! Don't provoke me, for by St. Jago I shall beat you, Housewife.

Char. Heaven forbid; for I shall infallibly discover my self if he should.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Have Patience, Madam! and look at him: Why will you prepossess your self against a Man that is Master of all the Charms you would desire in a Husband?

Sir Jeal. Ay, look at him, Isabinda, Senior pase vind adelante.

Char. My Heart bleeds to see her grieve, whom I imagin'd would with Joy receive me. Seniora obligue me vuestra merced de sumano.

Sir Jeal. (Pulling up her Head.) Hold up your Head, hold up your Head, Housewife, and look at him: Is there a properer, handsomer, better shap'd Fellow in England, ye Jade you. Ha! see, see the obstinate Baggage shuts her Eyes; by St. Jago, I have a good Mind to beat 'em out.

(Pushes her down.

Isab.

Sir Geo. Sir Jealous, you are too passionate. Give me leave, I'll try by gentle Words to work her to your Purpose.

Sir Jeal. I pray do, Mr. Meanwell, I pray do; she'll break my Heart. (weeps) There is in that, Jewels of the Value of 3000 l. which were her Mother's; and a Paper wherein I have settled one half of my Estate upon her now, and the whole when I dye. But provided she marries this Gentleman, else by St. Jago, I'll turn her out of Doors to beg or starve. Tell her this, Mr. Meanwell, pray do.

(Walks off.

K Sir Geo. Ha! this is beyond Expectation— Trust to me, Sir, I'll lay the dangerous Consequence of disobeying you at this Juncture before her, I warrant you.

Char. A sudden Joy runs thro' my Heart like a propitious Omen.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. Come, Madam, do not blindly cast your Life away just in the Moment you would wish to have it.

Isab. Pray cease your Trouble, Sir, I have no Wish but sudden Death to free me from this hated Spaniard. If you are his Friend inform him what I say; my Heart is given to another Youth, whom I love with the same strength of Passion that I hate this Diego; with whom, if I am forc'd to wed, my own Hand shall cut the Gordian Knot.

Sir Geo. Suppose this Spaniard which you strive to shun should be the very Man to whom you'd flye?

Isab. Ha!

Sir Geo. Would you not blame your rash Result, and curse those Eyes that would not look on Charles.

Isab. On Charles! Oh you have inspir'd new Life, and collected every wandring Sense. Where is he? Oh! let me flye into his Arms.

(Rises.

Sir Geo. Hold, hold, hold, 'Zdeath, Madam, you'll ruin all, your Father believes him to be Seignor Barbinetto. Compose your self a little, pray Madam.

(He runs to Sir Jealous.

Char. Her Eyes declare she knows me.

(Aside.

Sir Geo. She begins to hear Reason, Sir, the fear of being turn'd out of Doors has done it.

(Runs back to Isabinda.

Isab. 'Tis he, oh! my ravish'd Soul.

Sir Geo. Take heed, Madam, you don't betray your self. Seem with Reluctance to consent, or you are undone, (runs to Sir Jealous,) speak gently to her, Sir, I'm sure she'll yield, I see it in her Face.

Sir Jeal. Well, Isabinda, can you refuse to bless a Father, whose only Care is to make you happy, as Mr. Meanwell has inform'd you. Come, wipe thy Eyes; nay, prithee do, or thou wilt break thy Father's Heart; see thou bring'st the Tears in mine to think of thy undutiful Carriage to me.

(Weeps.

Isab. Oh! do not weep, Sir, your Tears are like a Ponyard to my Soul; do with me what you please, I am all Obedience.

Sir Jeal. Ha! then thou art my Child agen.

Sir Geo. 'Tis done, and now Friend the Day's thy own.

Char. The happiest of my Life, if nothing Intervene.

Sir Jeal. And wilt thou love him?

Isab. I will endeavour it, Sir.

Enter Servant.

Serv. Sir, Here is Mr. Tackum.

Sir Jeal. Show him into the Parlour—Senior tome vind sueipora; cete Momenta les Junta les Manos.

(Gives her to Charles.

Char. Oh! transport—Senior yo la recibo Como se deve un Tesoro tan Grande. Oh! my Joy, my Life, my Soul.

(Embrace.

Isab. My Faithful everlasting Comfort.

Sir Jeal. Now, Mr. Meanwell let's to the Parson,

(Exit.

SCENE Changes to the Street before Sir Jealous's Door.

Enter Marplot, Solus.

Marpl. I have hunted all over the Town for Charles, but can't find him; and by Whisper's scouting at the End of the Street, I suspect he must be in this House again. I'm inform'd too that he has borrow'd a Spanish Habit out of the Play-house. What can it mean?

K2

Enter a Servant of Sir Jealous's to him, out of the House.

Hark'e, Sir, do you belong to this House?

Serv. Yes, Sir.

Marpl. Pray can you tell if there be a Gentleman in it in Spanish Habit?

Serv. There is a Spanish Gentleman within, that is just a going to marry my young Lady, Sir.

Marpl. Are you sure he is a Spanish Gentleman?

Serv. I'm sure he speaks no English, that I hear of.

Marpl. Then that can't be him I want; for 'tis an English Gentleman, tho' I suppose he may be dress'd like a Spaniard, that I enquire after.

Serv. Ha! who knows but this may be an Impostor? I'll inform my Master; for if he shou'd be impos'd upon, he'll beat us all round. (Aside.) Pray, come in, Sir, and see if this be the Person you enquire for.

SCENE Changes to the Inside the House.

Enter Marplot.

Marpl. So, this was a good Contrivance: If this be Charles, now will he wonder how I found him out.

Enter Servant and Jealous.

Sir Jeal. What is your earnest Business, Blockhead, that you must speak with me before the Ceremony's past? Ha! who's this?

Serv. Why this Gentleman, Sir, wants another Gentleman in Spanish Habit, he says.

Sir Jeal. In Spanish Habit! 'tis some Friend of Seignior Don Diego's, I warrant. Sir, I suppose you wou'd speak with Seignior Barbinetto—

Marpl. Hy-day! what the Devil does he say now!— Sir, I don't understand you.

Sir Jeal. Don't you understand Spanish, Sir?

Marpl. Not I indeed, Sir.

Sir Jeal. I thought you had known Seignior Barbinetto.

Marpl. Not I, upon my word, Sir.

Sir Jeal. What then you'd speak with his Friend, the English Merchant, Mr. Meanwell.

Marpl. Neither, Sir; not I.

Sir Jeal. Why who are you then, Sir? and what do you want?

(In an angry Tone.

Marpl. Nay, nothing at all, not I, Sir. Pox on him! I wish I were out, he begins to exalt his Voice, I shall be beaten agen.

Sir Jeal. Nothing at all, Sir! Why then what Business have you in my House? ha?

Serv. You said you wanted a Gentleman in Spanish Habit.

Marpl. Why ay, but his Name is neither Barbinetto nor Meanwell.

Sir Jeal. What is his Name then, Sirrah, ha? Now I look at you agen, I believe you are the Rogue threaten'd me with half a Dozen Mirmidons— Speak, Sir, who is it you look for? or, or—

Marpl. A terrible old Dog!— Why, Sir, only an honest young Fellow of my Acquaintance— I thought that here might be a Ball, and that he might have been here in a Masquerade; 'tis Charles, Sir Francis Gripe's Son, because I know he us'd to come hither sometimes.

Sir Jeal. Did he so?— Not that I know of, I'm sure. Pray Heaven that this be Don Diego— If I shou'd be trick'd now— Ha! my Heart misgives me plaguily—within there! stop the Marriage— Run, Sirrah, call all my Servants! I'll be satisfy'd that this is Seignior Pedro's Son e're he has my Daughter.

Marpl. Ha, Sir George, what have I done now ?

Enter Sir George with a drawn Sword between the Scenes.

Sir Geo. Ha! Marplot, here— Oh the unlucky Dog—what's the matter, Sir Jealous?

Sir Jeal. Nay, I don't know the matter, Mr.Meanwell.

Marpl. Upon my Soul, Sir George—

(Going up to Sir Geo.

Sir Jeal. Nay then, I'm betray'd, ruin'd, undone: Thieves, Traytors, Rogues! (Offers to go in.) Stop the Marriage, I say—

Sir Geo. I say, go on Mr.Tackum— Nay, no Ent'ring here, I guard this Passage, old Gentleman; the Act and Deed were both your own, and I'll see 'em sign'd, or die for't.

Enter Servants.

Sir Jeal. A pox on the Act and Deed!— Fall on, knock him down.

Sir Geo. Ay, come on, Scoundrils! I'll prick your Jackets for you.

Sir Jeal. Z'ounds, Sirrah, I'll be Reveng'd on you.

(Beats Marplot.

Sir Geo. Ay, there your Vengeance is due; Ha, ha.

Marpl. Why, what do you beat me for? I ha'nt marry'd your Daughter.

Sir Jeal. Rascals! why don't you knock him down?

Serv. We are afraid of his Sword, Sir; if you'll take that from him, we'll knock him down presently.

Enter Charles and Isabinda.

Sir Jeal. Seize her then.

Char. Rascals, retire; she's my Wife, touch her if you dare, I'll make Dogs meat of you.

Sir Jeal. Ah! downright English:— Oh, oh, oh, oh!

Enter Sir Francis Gripe, Mirand, Patch, Scentwell, and Whisper.

Sir Fran. Into the House of Joy we Enter without knocking: Ha! I think 'tis the House of Sorrow, Sir Jealous.

Sir Jeal. Oh Sir Francis! are you come? What was this your Contrivance, to abuse, trick, and chouse me of my Child!

Sir Fran. My Contrivance! what do you mean?

Sir Jeal. No, you don't know your Son there in Spanish Habit.

Sir Fran. How! my Son in Spanish Habit. Sirrah, you'll come to be hang'd; get out of my sight, ye Dog! get out of my sight.

Sir Jeal. Get out of your sight, Sir! Get out with your Bags; let's see what you'll give him now to maintain my Daughter on.

Sir Fran. Give him! He shall be never the better for a Penny of mine—and you might have look'd after your Daughter better, Sir Jealous. Trick'd, quotha! Egad, I think you design'd to trick me: But look ye, Gentlemen, I believe I shall trick you both. This Lady is my Wife, do you see? And my Estate shall descend only to the Heirs of her Body.

Sir Geo. Lawfully begotten by me— I shall be extremely oblig'd to you, Sir Francis.

Sir Fran. Ha, ha, ha, ha, poor Sir George! You see your Project was of no use. Does not your Hundred Pound stick in your Stomach? Ha, ha, ha.

Sir Geo. No faith, Sir Francis, this Lady has given me a Cordial for that.

(Takes her by the Hand.

Sir Fran. Hold, Sir, you have nothing to say to this Lady.

Sir Geo. Nor you nothing to do with my Wife, Sir.

Sir Fran. Wife, Sir!

Miran. Ay really, Guardian, 'tis even so. I hope you'll forgive my first Offence.

Sir Fran. What have you chous'd me out of my Consent, and your Writings then, Mistress, ha?

Miran. Out of nothing but my own, Guardian.

Sir Jeal. Ha, ha, ha, 'tis some Comfort at least to see you are over-reach'd as well as my self. Will you settle your Estate upon your Son now?

Sir Fran. He shall starve first.

Miran. That I have taken care to prevent. There, Sir, is the Writings of your Uncle's Estate, which has been your due these three Years.

(Gives Char. Papers.

Char. I shall study to deserve this Favour.

Sir Fran. What have you robb'd me too, Mistress! Egad I'll make you restore 'em.— Huswife, I will so.

Sir Jeal. Take care I don't make you pay the Arrears, Sir. 'Tis well it's no worse, since 'tis no better. Come, young Man, seeing thou hast out-witted me, take her, and Bless you both.

Char. I hope, Sir, you'll bestow your Blessing too, 'tis all I'll ask.

(Kneels.

Sir Fran. Confound you all!

(Exit.

Marpl. Mercy upon us! how he looks!

Sir Geo. Ha, ha, ne'er mind his Curses, Charles; thou'lt thrive not one jot the worse for 'em. Since this Gentleman is reconcil'd, we are all made happy.

Sir Jeal. I always lov'd Precaution, and took care to avoid Dangers. But when a thing was past, I ever had Philosophy to be easie.

Char. Which is the true sign of a great Soul: I lov'd your Daughter, and she me, and you shall have no reason to repent her Choice.

Isab. You will not blame me, Sir, for loving my own Country best.

Marpl. So here's every Body happy, I find, but poor Pilgarlick. I wonder what Satisfaction I shall have, for being cuff'd, kick'd, and beaten in your Service.

Sir Jeal. I have been a little too familiar with you, as things are fallen out; but since there's no help for't, you must forgive me.

Marpl. Egad I think so— But provided that you be not so familiar for the future.

Sir Geo. Thou hast been an unlucky Rogue.

Marpl. But very honest.

Char. That I'll vouch for; and freely forgive thee.

Sir Geo. And I'll do you one piece of Service more, Marplot, I'll take care that Sir Francis make you Master of your Estate.

Marpl. That will make me as happy as any of you.

Patch. Your humble Servant begs leave to remind you, Madam.

Isab. Sir, I hope you'll give me leave to take Patch into favour again.

Sir Jeal. Nay, let your Husband look to that, I have done with my Care.

Char. Her own Liberty shall always oblige me. Here's no Body but honest Whisper and Mrs. Scentwell to be provided for now. It shall be left to their Choice to Marry, or keep their Services.

Whisp. Nay then, I'll stick to my Master.

Scentw. Coxcomb! and I prefer my Lady before a Footman.

Sir Jeal. Hark, I hear Musick, the Fidlers smell a Wedding. What say you, young Fellows, will ye have a Dance?

Sir Geo. With all my Heart; call'em in.

A DANCE.

Sir Jeal. Now let us in and refresh our selves with a chearful Glass, in which we'll bury all Animosities: And

FINIS

The Editors of THE AUGUSTAN REPRINT SOCIETY

are pleased to announce that THE WILLIAM ANDREWS CLARK MEMORIAL LIBRARY of The University of California, Los Angeles

will become the publisher of the Augustan Reprints in May, 1949. The editorial policy of the Society will continue unchanged. As in the past, the editors will strive to furnish members inexpensive reprints of rare seventeenth and eighteenth century works.

Publications for the fourth year (1949-1950)

(At least six items will be printed in the main from the following list)

Series IV: Men, Manners, and Critics John Dryden, His Majesties Declaration Defended (1681) Daniel Defoe (?), Vindication of the Press (1718) Critical Remarks on Sir Charles Grandison, Clarissa, and Pamela (1754) Series VI: Poetry and Language Andre Dacier, Essay on Lyric Poetry Poems by Thomas Sprat Poems by the Earl of Dorset Samuel Johnson, Vanity of Human Wishes (1749), and one of the 1750 Rambler papers.

Series V: Drama Thomas Southerne, Oroonoko (1696) Mrs. Centlivre, The Busie Body (1709) Charles Johnson, Caelia (1733) Charles Macklin, Man of the World (1781) Extra Series: Lewis Theobald, Preface to Shakespeare's Works (1733) A few copies of the early publications of the Society are still available at the original rate.

GENERAL EDITORS

H. Richard Archer, William Andrews Clark Memorial Library Richard C. Boys, University of Michigan Edward Niles Hooker, University of California, Los Angeles H. T. Swedenberg, Jr., University of California, Los Angeles

To The Augustan Reprint Society The fourth year $2.50

William Andrews Clark Memorial Library The third and fourth year $5.00

2205 West Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 7, California The second, third and fourth year $7.50

As membership fee I enclose for: The first, second, third, and fourth year $10.00

Name [Add $.25 for each year if ordering from Great Britain or the continent]

Address

Make check or money order payable to The Regents of the University of California. Note: All income of the Society is devoted to defraying cost of printing and mailing.

PUBLICATIONS OF THE AUGUSTAN REPRINT SOCIETY

First Year (1946-1947)

1. Richard Blackmore's Essay upon Wit (1716), and Addison's Freeholder No. 45 (1716). (I, 1)

2. Samuel Cobb's Of Poetry and Discourse on Criticism (1707). (II, 1)

3. Letter to A.H. Esq.; concerning the Stage (1698), and Richard Willis' Occasional Paper No. IX (1698). (III, 1)

4. Essay on Wit (1748), together with Characters by Flecknoe, and Joseph Warton's Adventurer Nos. 127 and 133. (I, 2)

5. Samuel Wesley's Epistle to a Friend Concerning Poetry (1700) and Essay on Heroic Poetry (1693). (II, 2)

6. Representation of the Impiety and Immorality of the Stage (1704) and Some Thoughts Concerning the Stage (1704). (III, 2)

Second Year (1947-1948)

7. John Gay's The Present State of Wit (1711); and a section on Wit from The English Theophrastus (1702). (I, 3)

8. Rapin's De Carmine Pastorali, translated by Creech (1684). (II, 3)

9. T. Hanmer's (?) Some Remarks on the Tragedy of Hamlet (1736). (III, 3)

10. Corbyn Morris' Essay towards Fixing the True Standards of Wit, etc. (1744). (I, 4)

11. Thomas Purney's Discourse on the Pastoral (1717). (II, 4)

12. Essays on the Stage, selected, with an Introduction by Joseph Wood Krutch. (III, 4)

Third Year (1948-1949)

13. Sir John Falstaff (pseud.), The Theatre (1720). (IV, 1)

14. Edward Moore's The Gamester (1753). (V, 1)

15. John Oldmixon's Reflections on Dr. Swift's Letter to Harley (1712); and Arthur Mainwaring's The British Academy (1712). (VI, 1)

16. Nevil Payne's Fatal Jealousy (1673). (V, 2)

17. Nicholas Rowe's Some Account of the Life of Mr. William Shakespear (1709). (Extra Series, 1)

18. Aaron Hill's Preface to The Creation; and Thomas Brereton's Preface to Esther. (IV, 2)