MR. H. You will certainly be hanged some day for peeping into some bureau or other, just to see what is in it.
LANDLORD That is my fear, Sir. The thumps and kicks I have had for peering into parcels, and turning of letters inside out,—just for curiosity. The blankets I have been made to dance in for searching parish-registers for old ladies' ages,—just for curiosity! Once I was dragged through a horse-pond, only for peeping into a closet that had glass doors to it, while my Lady Bluegarters was undressing,—just for curiosity!
MR. H. A very harmless piece of curiosity, truly; and now, Mr. Pry, first have the goodness to leave that box with me, and then do me the favour to carry your curiosity so far, as to enquire if my servants are within.
LANDLORD I shall, Sir. Here, David, Jonathan,—I think I hear them coming,—shall make bold to leave you, Sir.
[Exit.]
MR. H.
Another tolerable specimen of the comforts of going anonymous!
Enter two Footmen.
FIRST FOOTMAN
You speak first.
SECOND FOOTMAN
No, you had better speak.
FIRST FOOTMAN
You promised to begin.