SHORT. Yes, Loo, here I am, very tired, I can tell you, and ravenous for something to eat.
MRS. SHORT. Oh, dear, dear, what can I tell them to get you?
SHORT. Never mind, there is something coming—I have taken care of myself—but, bless my heart, Loo, how smart you are! Why, you look as if you were going to “ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross.”
MRS. SHORT. (timidly) Fanny and Mr. Sweet have been proposing——
SHORT. A ride on horseback—yes, I know—quite a cavalcade. Sweet has been telling me. But shouldn’t you have waited for my return before you gave your consent?
SWEET. (aside) What a terrible crime!
MRS. SHORT. Well, Henry, dear, I didn’t think you would—
SHORT. You know, Louisa, I am not fond of equestrian exercise. I never even go to Astley’s—but since you have been at the trouble of dressing yourself, why I suppose I mustn’t disappoint Mrs. Sweet and her husband.
MRS. SHORT. (pleased) Thank you, Harry, that’s kind.
SWEET. (aside) There’s five pounds in my pocket.