Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 8.djvu/336

325 Miss. I vow, Madam, I saw something in black; I thought it was a spirit.

Col. Why, miss, did you ever see a spirit?

Miss. No, sir; I thank God I never saw any thing worse than myself.

Neverout. Well, I did a very foolish thing yesterday, and was a great puppy for my pains.

Miss. Very likely; for they say, many a true word's spoke in jest.

Lady Smart. Well, did you deliver your message? you are fit to be sent for sorrow, you stay so long by the way.

Footman. Madam, my lady was not at home, so I did not leave the message.

Lady Smart. This it is to send a fool of an errand.

''Ld. Sparkish''. [looking at his watch.] 'Tis past twelve o'clock.

Lady Smart. Well, what is that among all us?

''Ld. Sparkish''. Madam, I must take my leave: come, gentlemen, are you for a march?

Lady Smart. Well, but your lordship and the colonel will dine with us to day; and, Mr. Neverout, I hope, we shall have your good company: there will be no soul else, beside my own lord and these ladies; for every body knows I hate a crowd; I would rather want vittles than elbow room: we dine punctually at three.

''Ld. Sparkish''. Madam, we'll be sure to attend your ladyship.

Col. Madam, my stomach serves me instead of a clock. Another