Page:Passions 2.pdf/38

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26
THE ELECTION:

back piqued.) But you are liberal to every body, Mr. Freeman. I hope you and your friends have got over the fatigues of your morning feast? You were at it by times I hear.

Free. Yes, we have been busy in the eating and drinking way to be sure. I don't make speeches to them, and fill their heads with fine oratory; I give them from my plain stores what they like better, Mr. Baltimore.

Balt. And what you can spare better, Mr. Freeman. It is fortunate for both parties, that your stores are more applicable to the stomach than the head.

Free. It is better, at least, than flattering them up with advertisements in the newspapers, about their great dignity and antiquity, &c. I don't spend my money in feeding other people's vanity.

Balt. No, certainly, Sir; charity begins at home; and your own has, thank God! a very good appetite.

Free. Pamper'd vanity is a better thing, perhaps, than starved pride. Good morning, Sir. (Exit.

Balt. (looking after him.) See how consequentially he walks now, shaking his long coat-skirts with that abominable swing! I should detest my own brother if he swung himself about after that manner.——Resemblance to him do they say! I could lock myself up in a cell, if I thought so, and belabour my own shoulders with a cat-o'-nine tails.

(Enter Peter with one of his idle companions, and starts back upon seeing Baltimore.)

Pet. (aside to his Com.) Pest take it! a body can never be a little comfortable in a sly way, but there