Page:Passions 2.pdf/474

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462
THE SECOND MARRIAGE:


Bea. (going after him.) You are not going to leave me thus, my Lord, angry and disturb'd as you appear to be? I cannot suffer any body, man, woman, or child, to leave me offended, if it be possible for me to part with them on more amicable terms. I flatter myself it is possible to do so on the present occasion; I am sure, I am confident of it, if you will do me the honour to explain in what way I can be useful to you.

Lord A. I came here, Sir, upon no concerns of my own; and the conversation I have had the honour to hold with this Lady, makes any explanation of the business that brought me unnecessary.

Bea. But she is angry too, I perceive, and I will have no explanation from her. I know already the unfortunate affairs of poor Seabright; and I can explain to myself the intention of your Lordship's visit: you must have the goodness to stay and hear if I explain it right. (taking him by the coat and preventing him from going.) Nay, nay, my Lord! the spirit of charity and of peace-making makes a well-meaning man very bold,—you shall stay.

Lord A. (relenting, and turning back.) I do believe, Mr. Beaumont, that you are a very good man, and as such I respect you; but since you already know the misfortune of Sir Anthony Seabright, and will, from the dictates of your own good heart, open the matter to him in the best manner possible, my business with you is anticipated.