Page:Passions 2.pdf/118

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106
THE ELECTION:


Free. (kissing her hand with emotion.) I know she has, and I have not been ungrateful. (presenting Mrs. Free, to Mrs. B. and Balt.) And here is one who has not been so much your friend as she will be. Her too warm interest in a husband's success misled her into an error which she sincerely repents.

Mrs. Free. (affectedly.) Mrs. Baltimore has too much sensibility herself not to pardon the errors it occasions in others.

Mrs. B. (taking her hand.) Be assured, my dear madam, I can remember nothing with resentment that is connected with our present happiness.

Serv. (aside to Jenk.) And Mrs. Freeman is shaking hands with them too! O! there will be a stagnation to all activity! there will not be a law-suit in the parish for a century to come!

Jenk. (aside.) Well, how could I help it? Walk this way for God's sake or they will hear us.

(Jenk. and Ser. retire to the bottom of the stage quarrelling.)

Mrs. B. (looking round.) But there is something wanting for me still: My dear Charlotte—

Charl. (coming forward and jumping into Mrs. B's arms.) Yes, I was just waiting for this. O! I shall love you, and live with you, and hang about you continually! My sister, my aunty, my cousin! how many names may I call you?

Mrs. B. As many as you please. But there is another name that you must learn to say: (leading her up to Balt.) do you think you can look gravely