Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 3.pdf/221

Rh

which he never lacks courage, when the enemies of his country are before him.

Vald. True, he is brave in the field, but he is fortunate also. He serves under an active commander, while I waste my ardour in listless inactivity.

Dart. Cheer up then, noble Count, I have good news to tell you upon this score.

Vald. On this score! Is any change to take place? (In a feeble voice.)

Dart. (after a pause.) You are too well bred to be impatient for an answer.

Vald. O no; you mistake me; I am very impatient; I am on fire to hear it.

Dart. Expand then your doughty breast at thoughts of the glorious fields that are before you: your old General is set aside, and the most enterprising man in the service, Counthimself is now your Commander. (After a momentary pause, and eyeing him keenly.) Silent joy, they say, is most sincere; you are, I perceive, considerately and profoundly glad.

Vald. (assuming suddenly great animation.) O, immeasurably so. Great news indeed!—Strange—I mean very admirable news, if one could be sure it were true.

Dart. True! Who doubts what delights him?

Vald. I thought the regiment was promised to another person; I was not prepared to hear it.

Dart. So it appeared.