Page:Passions 2.pdf/87

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Char. I should have been a Pagan else. (Free. sits down and they all gather round him.) Now, my good Sir, it is pleasanter to sit in a dry seat like this, with so many friendly faces round you, than to squash amongst the cold mud and duck-weed, with roaches and eels for your comrades.

Free. Indeed, friend Charles, I sha'nt contradict you.

Free. He thinks I am still in the bed-room. (goes behind Balt, and lays his hand kindly upon his shoulder.)

Balt. Nay, my dear Isabella! let me go by myself! I would rather encounter him alone, than when you are all staring upon me.

Free. (still holding him.) Ha, ha, ha! My brave deliverer! I have caught you.

Balt. (turning hastily about, and shaking himself loose from his hold.) Ha! is it you?

Free. (stepping back disappointed.) It is me, Sir; and I flattered myself that the overflowings of a grateful heart would not be offensive.

Balt. They are not offensive, Sir; you mistake me. You are too—There is no occasion for all these thanks: I do not deserve them.

Sim. (vehemently.) Ah, but you do, Sir! and all the country round will thank you too. There is not a soul of them all, thof he might not care a