Amelia.
And what is ſubſtituted in its ſtead?
Count.
Intrigue.
Amelia.
What a poor, uncomfortable ſubſtitute!
Count.
There are other things—Song, dance, the opera, and war.
[Since the entrance of the Count the Baron has removed to a table at a little diſtance.
Baron.
What are you talking of there?
Count.
Of war, Colonel.
Baron [riſing].
Ay, we like to talk on what we don’t underſtand.
Count. [riſing].
Therefore, to a lady, I always ſpeak of politics; and to her father, on love.
Baron.
I believe, Count, notwithſtanding your ſneer, I am ſtill as much of a proficient in that art as yourſelf.
Count.
I do not doubt it, my dear Colonel, for you are a ſoldier: and ſince the days of Alexander, whoever conquers men is certain to overcome women.
Baron.
An achievement to animate a poltroon.
Count.
And, I verily believe, gains more recruits than the king’s pay.
Baron.
Now we are on the ſubjed of arms, ſhould you