Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 8.djvu/303

 Col. If she be'nt married, at least she's lustily promis'd. But, is it certain that sir John Blunderbuss is dead at last?

''Ld. Sparkish''. Yes, or else he's sadly wrong'd, for they have buried him.

Miss. Why, if he be dead, he'll eat no more bread.

Col. But, is he really dead?

Lady Answ. Yes, colonel, as sure as you're alive —

Col. They say he was an honest man.

Lady Answ. Yes, with good looking to.

Miss feels a pimple on her face.

Miss. Lord! I think my goodness is coming out. Madam, will your ladyship please to lend me a patch?

Neverout. Miss, if you are a maid, put your hand upon your spot.

Miss. — There —

[Covering her face with both her hands.

Lady Smart. Well, thou art a mad girl.

[Gives her a tap.

Miss. Lord, madam, is that a blow to give a child?

Lady Smart lets fall her handkerchief, and the Colonel stoops for it.

Lady Smart. Colonel, you shall have a better office.

Col. O, madam, I can't have a better than to serve your ladyship.

Col. [to lady Sparkish.] Madam, has your ladyship