Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 3.pdf/252

220

Nin. Dare you insult me? You durst not once have done it.—I do not ask then to see him; but give him this letter.

Lor. (taking the letter.) Do you wish this precious piece to be read, child, or to be burnt?

Nin. Why ask that? to be read, certainly.

Lor. I must not give it to the Count, then, but keep it to myself: and if you'll just allow me to make the slight alteration of putting Lorimore the valet for Valdemere the master, as I read, it will be a very pretty, reasonable letter, and one that may advance your honour withal.

Nin. Audacious coxcomb! Give it me again. (Snatches the letter from him, and turns away.)

Lor. She is as proud as that little devil of a page, her brother.

Page. The more devil he be, the fitter company for you. Whom spoke you to? (seeing Nina) Oh, oh! Is Nina here?Nina, Nina, (Running after her.)

Nin. (returning.) My dear Theodore, is it thee? I did not ask for thee, lest thou should'st chide me for coming to the castle.

Page. I won't chide, but I'm sorry to see thee here. Fie, woman! thou art the daughter of as brave an officer, though a poor one, as any in the service; art thou not ashamed to come, thus meanly, after a lover who despises thee?