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Mrs. B. O dear! still dwelling upon these ideas! (he turns from her, and walks to the bottom of the stage; she sighs deeply, and follows him with her eyes. A long pause.)

''Serv. (to Balt.) Excuse me if I intrude, Sir. And you too, my good lady, (bowing very low to Mrs.'' B.) Here is a letter that I received a few moments ago, and I thought it expedient and proper that you should know its contents immediately. (gives the letter to Balt.)

Balt. Let me see. (reads.) "An unknown well-wisher thinks it right to inform you, that your friend"—

Serv. He ought to have said patron, Sir. I'm sure, I have always been proud to name you as my patron to every body:—the family of Baltimore has always been such to me.

Balt. Well, well, no matter. (reads again) "To ruin your friend, 'Squire Baltimore. His adversary"—

Serv. Meaning Freeman, Sir.

Balt. I understand! (reads again.) "His adversary being busy in buying up the claims of some of his principal creditors. If he would walk long at large, let him walk cautiously."

Serv. Meaning that he will lay you up. Sir.

Balt. I understand it perfectly.

Mrs. B. O no, no! Some malicious person has written this.

Balt. Permit me, Madam, to speak to my man of business, without interruption.