Page:Passions 2.pdf/422

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410
THE SECOND MARRIAGE:

drops it, they think you are putting a ring on her finger.

Sir C. I thank thee Sharp; and if thou cans't at any time pick up, in thine own way, any information that may be useful to me, thou shalt not go without thy reward. And how does the young lady like her step-mother's scheme? hast thou heard them talk about that?

Sharp. Nay, they say she dislikes it very much, and is deucedly shy about it.

Sir C. (smiling conceitedly.) Poo, poo, poo! She must be allowed to have her little management as well as older people; deceit is inherent in the human mind. I came here at Lady Sarah's desire to request that she would bring her music book into the drawing room, and play to us; and she took it into her head——but what brought you here to seek me? Is the horse-dealer come to look at my ponies?

Sharp. Yes, Sir.

Sir C. Then I must go to him. (Exit Sir Crafty, whilst Sharp remains behind, musing, as if in serious thought about something.)

(Enter Robert in a great rage.)

Rob. Ay! what damn'd tricks are you thinking of? I have overheard, at the door here, all that you and your vile master have been saying. My young lady to be made fool of for his conveniency, indeed! She's a match for a better man than him any day in the year; there is not a lord of the land too