SCENE I.
The Quay at Barbadoes, with an Inn upon it. People employed in unlading vessels, carrying bales of goods, &c.
Enter several Planters.
1st Plant. I saw her this morning, gentlemen, you may depend on't. My telescope never fails me. I popp'd upon her as I was taking a peep from my balcony. A brave tight ship, I tell you, bearing down directly for Barbadoes here.
2d Plant. Ods, my life! rare news! We have not had a vessel arrive in our harbour these six weeks.
3d Plant. And the last brought only Madam Narcissa, our Governor's daughter, from England; with a parcel of lazy, idle, white folks about her. Such cargoes will never do for our trade, neighbour.
2d Plant. No, no; we want slaves. A terrible dearth of 'em in Barbadoes, lately! But your dingy passengers for my money. Give me a vessel like a collier, where all the lading tumbles out as black as my hat. But are you sure, now, you ar'n't mistaken? [To 1st Planter.]
1st Plant. Mistaken! 'sbud, do you doubt my glass? I can discover a gull by it six leagues off: I could see every thing as plain as if I was on board.
2d Plant. Indeed! and what were her colours?
1st Plant. Um! why English——or Dutch——or French——I don't exactly remember.
2d Plant. What were the sailors aboard?
1st Plant. Eh! why they were English too——or Dutch——or French——I can't perfectly recollect.
2d Plant. Your glass, neighbour, is a little like a glass too much: it makes you forget every thing you ought to remember. [Cry without, "A sail, a sail!">[
1st Plant. Egad, but I'm right though. Now, gentlemen!
All. Aye, aye; the devil take the hindmost.
[Exeunt hastily.
Enter Narcissa and Patty.