As you understand the word kind, the two are incompatible.
SIR JOHN.
And how does Miss Frankland understand it, pray?
MISS FRANKLAND.
That to put a speedy end to all suspense, even by a flat refusal, is kind in every thing that regards the affections; if I am not too presumptuous in supposing the present proposal to be a case of that nature.
SIR JOHN.
Faith, it is at least one of an extraordinary nature, and may excuse all concerned with it from the common rules of ceremony and etiquette. (Crossing the floor, then returning with a conceited smile.) Pardon me, Miss Frankland; I feel myself still at liberty to watch for some more propitious moment.
MISS FRANKLAND.
Your patience will be tired out ere you find it; and so will the patience of my friend (looking at her watch), whom I promised to meet nearly half an hour ago.
(Curtseying toSir John, who retires tardily, and lays his hand on his heart as he disappears.)
