Pas. I have often heard of the Gentleman, he is in great Esteem amongst Our best Critics abroad, and I shall make it my particular Study to merit his Approbation.
Com. Mr. Pasquin you have it already. I like your manner of exposing the Follies of the Public extremely. Your making the Theatre the Scene of Action, and the Censure and Approbation of the Audience the Chorusses to your Characters upon the Stage, is quite New, and very happily immagin’d. But now you have made us acquainted with your Characters. I think the sooner you throw them into Action and come to a Conclusion the better.
Pas. Sir your Criticism is very just; And if Marforio is return’d I will proceed to an Examination of the Culprits and close for this night. (Goes to ye side of the Scene) Promptor, is Marforio come back?
Prom. No Sir.
Pas. Gentlemen & Ladies, I cannot possibly proceed till he returns. I reckon he will be here in about five Minutes; till then I shall take it as a Favour if you will step into the Green Room; and, in the mean time The Musick, by way of Act Tune, may play God save Great George Our King, to keep the Audience in Humour.
Omn: Admirable! with all Our Hearts. God save the King. (Ext Singing God save Great George)
Act. 2.
Enter. All the Characters.
Pas. Gentlemen and Ladies, pray take Your Places, and now Marforio make your return.
Mar. Why, this being Masquerade Night there are no Drums or Routs. So we have taken up but a very few— But, as I return’d me Guide led me to the other Play House, from whence, by the unanimous Consent of the Audience I have brought away a disorderly Lady.