Sir William.

[Shaking a trembling hand at Arthur. ] The—the character of my house—-!

Arthur.

Again I am extremely sorry, sir—but these are the only confidential conversations Rose and I now enjoy.

Sir William.

[Turning upon Clara and De Foenix.] And you, Captain de Foenix—an officer and a gentleman! and you, Clara! this could scarcely have been without your cognizance, without, perhaps, your approval——!

[Charles, in plush and powder and wearing luxuriant whiskers, enters, carrying two branch candlesticks with lighted candles.]

Charles.

The cawd-table, Sir William?

Miss Gower.