Page:Passions 2.pdf/28

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16
THE ELECTION:

just now: I see Mr. Truebridge coming this way, and I wish to speak to him. Good morning, my dear Charlotte. (Exit Charlotte.

Enter Truebridge.

You are hurrying away very fast; I did not know you were here.

True. I have been in the library writing a letter, which I ought to have done before I left my own house. I am going from home for a few days, and I came to see Baltimore before I set out.

Mrs. B. You are always going from home. I am very sorry you are going at this time, when your presence here might have been so useful. You might have persuaded Baltimore, perhaps, to give up this foolish contest with so rich a competitor as Freeman.

True. No, it is better, perhaps, to let them fight it out. We should only have separated them, like two game cocks, who are sure to be at it again, beak and spurs, with more fury than ever.

Re-enter Baltimore.

Balt. to True. You have forgot your letter. A pleasant journey to you! (gives him a letter.)

True. Farewell for a few days! I hope to learn on my return, that you have carried on this contest with temper and liberality, since you will engage in it.

Balt. Why you know, Truebridge, I am compell'd to engage in it.

True. O certainly, and by very weighty reasons too! A man may injure in a hundred different ways and provoke no hostile return; but, when added to