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the stage proudly.) And they shall see me advance. I am not a man to stop short at such beginnings as these, after the high connexions I have made: I feel that I am born for advancing. The embarrassment of public affairs at present, offers my activity a fair field for exertion. (A great noise and clamour heard without.) What is that? Who waits there?

What a cursed clamour and noise is this I hear?

Rob. Only my Lady, Sir, who has been all over the house with Mrs. Pry, and laying down some prudent regulations for the family.

Sea. And what have the servants to say to that?

Rob. A pretty deal, Sir: they are no wise mealy mouthed about the matter; and they're all coming to your honour with it in a body. (The noise without still coming nearer.)

Sea. Don't let the angry fools come to me; I'll have nothing to do with it. Go tell them so.

Rob. Very well, Sir; I'll be sure to tell them, he, he, he!

Sea. What, sirrah! is it a joke for you?

Rob. I didn't laugh, Sir.

''Sea. (very angry.)'' But you did, you damn'd fool!

(Voices without.) I'll tell his honour of it, that I will. His honour is a good master, and has always kept his house like a gentleman.

Sea. Did not I tell you not to let those angry ideots come to me. (Exit by the opposite side from the noise, in great haste, whilst Robert pushes