Page:Passions 2.pdf/42

30

Free. So you say, my dear; and you are generally in the right. But I don't know; I don't feel as if I did altogether right in opposing Mr. Baltimore, in his own person, in the very spot where his family has so long presided. If he did not provoke me—

Mrs. F. What, have you not got over these scruples yet? Has not all the rancorous opposition you have met with from him, wound you up to a higher pitch than this, Mr. Freeman? It has carried you thro' with many petty struggles against his proud will already, and would you let him get the better of you now?

''Free. (thoughtfully.)'' I could have wished to have lived in peace with him.

Mrs. Free. Yes, if he would have suffered you.

Free. Ay, indeed, if he would have suffered me. (musing for some time.) Well, it is very extraordinary this dislike which he seems to have taken to me: it is inexplicable! I came into his neighbourhood with the strongest desire to be upon good terms with, nay to be upon the most friendly and familiar footing with him; yet he very soon opposed me in every thing. (walking up and down and then stopping short.) I asked him to dine with me almost every day, just as one would ask their oldest and most intimate acquaintance; and he knew very well I expected no entertainments in return, which would have been a foolish expence in his situation, for I took care in the handsomest manner to let him understand as much.