The Follies of Love

CHARACTERS: Albert Worthy Arabella Jenny Scratch
(Jenny enters following Arabella.)
Jenny
Why, when every one else is sleeping, what demon, if you please, tugs
you by the ear and makes you go up and out so early?
Arabella Peace, shut up, speak low—you know my plan. Worthy has come back.
Jenny Worthy?
Arabella (romantically)
>From France!
Jenny How do you know that, Madame, I beg to ask?
Arabella
I believed he'd make an appearance hereabouts—more with my heart than
my eyes.
Jenny
I am only astonished that you've avoided the watchful Uncle Albert. My
word, here is a guide more excellent than love.
Arabella
I was at my window waiting for the day. Then, someone came. Seeing the
door open, I seized the opportunity offered by the occasion—more to
take the air than to flatter my hopes that Mr. Worthy would be
attracted here just to see me.
Jenny
There's no need for you to worry. It's understandable that the poor
boy would fall all over himself to see you. He comes tonight, and at
daybreak, you wait for him—just to flatter his love. You lose little
time. But, what, if by chance, Albert, your tutor, who is jealous by
nature, should find us? What would you say to him?
Arabella (with determination)
I intend to free myself from the jealous fool. I have languished too
long under his cruel domain. I'm taking off the mask, so he can see
how little regard I have for him, and how I intend to live from now
on—and how much I hate him!