enter into a kind of second marriage with the only man whom she was ever capable of loving! SIR GEORGE. May it be as happy as our first, I desire no more! Believe me, my dear, I want words to express those transports of joy and tenderness which are every moment rising in my heart whilst I speak to thee. Enter SERVANTS. BUT. Just as the steward told us, lads! look you there, if he ben't with my lady already. GARD. He, he, he! what a joyful night will this be for madam! COACH. As I was coming in at the gate, a strange gentleman whisked by me; but he took to his heels, and made away to the George. If I did not see master before me, I should have sworn it had been his honour. GARD. Hast given orders for the bells to be set a ringing? COACH. Never trouble thy head about that, 'tis done. SIR GEORGE. [To LADY.] My dear, I long as much to tell you my whole story, as you do to hear it. In the mean while, I am to look upon this as my wedding day. I'll have nothing but the voice of mirth and feasting in my house. My poor neighbours and my servants shall rejoice with me. My hall shall be free to every one, and let my cellars be thrown open. BUT. Ah! bless your honour, may you never die again! SIR GEORGE. Vellum, thou hast done me much service to-day. I know thou lovest Abigail, but she's disappointed in a fortune. I'll make it up to both of you. I'll give thee a thousand pound with her. It is not fit there should be one sad heart in my house to-night. LADY. What you do for Abigail, I know is meant as a compliment to me. This is a new instance of your love. ABIG. Mr. Vellum, you are a well-spoken man: pray you thank my master and my lady. do SIR GEORGE. Vellum, I hope you are not displeased with the gift I make you. VELLUM. The gift is twofold. I receive from you A virtuous partner, and a portion too; For which, in humble wise, I thank the donors: And so we bid good night to both your ho--nours. THE EPILOGUE. SPOKEN BY MRS. OLDFIELD. To-night the poet's advocate I stand, My help thus ask'd, I could not choose but grant it, To warm your fancies, and to steal your hearts: But turn upon the ladies in the pit, Protect him then, ye fair ones; for the fair He draws a widow, who of blameless carriage, A nymph of five and forty finds her mate. But has his fling at the poor wedded pair. |