Page:Passions 2.pdf/33

Rh

Ser. Every thing in the next room is set out, Ma'am—Have you any orders?

Mrs. F. Don't trouble me about it; I'll look at it by and by, if I have nothing better to do. (Exit Ser.)—Miss Freeman, there is no time to lose; Bescatti and you must be busy, for I expect Mr. Tweedle this morning with a new song in his pocket.

Ser. All the voters are come. Ma'am, and my master says, we must open the great room immediately. (Opens folding-doors at the bottom of the stage, and discovers a large room with a long table set out, plentifully covered with cold meats, &c. &c.)

Mrs. F. What could possess the creatures to come so early? If I am to have the whole morning of it, I shall be dead before it is over. Heigh ho! here they are.

''Free. (with a very affable smiling countenance.)'' Come in, ladies and gentlemen come in, my very good neighbours; my wife will be proud to see you. (presents them to Mrs. Freeman, who receives them with affected condescension; whilst Charlotte draws herself up by her mother's side, and curtseys to them in the same affected manner.)—This is my very good friend Mr. Ginger, my dear; and this is worthy Mr. Fudge.—But where is your wife, Mr. Fudge? we are near