Page:Passions 2.pdf/404

392

''Ser. (to Lady'' S.) Some poor people from the village are come to wish your Ladyship health and happiness.

Lady S. (ungraciously.) I am obliged to them.—What do they mean? Ay, ay! tell them I am obliged to them. You need not wait; that is all.

(Exit Ser. whilst Mrs. B. smiles significantly to her husband.)

Soph. I wonder if my old friend, Huskins, be amongst them: I'll run and see. (going to run out.)

Lady S. Perhaps, Miss Seabright, will do me the honour to consult me upon what friendships are proper for her to cultivate.

Mrs. B. (seeing Sophia distressed.) If your Ladyship will permit us, she shall retire with me for a little. (Exeunt Mrs. B. and Sophia.

''Wil. (aside to his father, as they are about to follow them.)'' What an ugly witch it is! must we leave Sophia with her? (Exeunt Beaumont and William B. Lady Sarah looking after them suspiciously.)

Lady S. (turning to him with affected sprightliness.) So you have been upon the watch, I suppose, and will not suffer me to stroll thro' these shady walks alone: I am positively to have no time to myself.

Sea. You don't call me an intruder, I hope?

Lady S. Indeed if you become very troublesome, I don't know what I may call you. He, he, he! (laughing foolishly. Seabright putting his hand up to