Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/329

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Jane. Not so, Count Freberg, Monfort is too noble. Say rather, that he is a man in grief, Wearing at times a strange and scowling eye; And thou, less generous than beseems a friend, Hast thought too hardly of him.

''Freb. (Bowing with great respect.)'' So will I say I'll own nor word, nor will, that can offend you.

Lady. De Monfort is engag'd to grace our feast, Ere long you'll see him here.

Jane. I thank you truly, but this homely dress Suits not the splendour of such scenes as these.

''Freb. (Pointing to her dress.)'' Such artless and majestick elegance, So exquisitely just, so nobly simple, Will make the gorgeous blush.

''Jane. (Smiling.)'' Nay, nay, be more consistent, courteous knight, And do not praise a plain and simple guise With such profusion of unsimple words. I cannot join your company to-night.

Lady. Not stay to see your brother?

Jane. Therefore it is I would not, gentle hostess. Here he will find all that can woo the heart To joy and sweet forgetfulness of pain; The sight of me would wake his feeling mind To other thoughts. I am no doting mistress, No fond distracted wife, who must forthwith Rush to his arms and weep. I am his sister: