(taking out purse.
MRS. BROWN. (offended) You mistake my meaning, sir, altogether. Assistance! no, sir, I am able to earn quite sufficient for my support, and to afford myself some comforts besides—indeed, the object of this visit, was to inquire of Mrs. Bobbins, Rebecca’s character, as I am informed she is about to leave her service.
REBECCA has entered during this speech, but on seeing them, draws back, L. C. D.
REBECCA. (aside) Ullo! master and Mrs. Duval!
(listens, C.
AUGUS. (aside) Rebecca’s character! The devil! that will never do—she’ll be telling her a pack of lies. (aloud) In the absence of my wife, perhaps I shall do as well. I am afraid, ma’am, Rebecca will never suit you.
MRS. BROWN. Pray, may I ask why?
AUGUS. Oh, she’s an idle, gossipping, impertinent young hussy, and burns no end of coals.
REBECCA. (aside) That’s how you speak of me behind my back, is it?
AUGUS. And then, ma’am, her conduct in another respect, to a lady of your extreme propriety, I am quite sure would be highly objectionable. She encourages a great many followers, and with one young man in particular, an articled clerk—she has—