Bet. For, indeed, sir, I am no busybody, nor do I love fending nor proving; and, I assure you, sir, I hate all tittling and tattling, and gossiping and backbiting, and taking away a person's good name.
Sid. I observe you do, Mrs. Betty.
Set. I do indeed, sir. I am the farthest from it in the world.
Sid. I dare say you are.
Bet. I am indeed, sir, and so your humble servant.
Sid. Your servant, Mrs. Betty.
Bet. [Aside, in great exultation.] So! I see he believes every word I say,—that's charming. I'll do her business for her I am resolved. [Exit.
Sid. What can this ridiculous creature mean by her dark walk,—her private spark, her kissing, and all her slanderous insinuations against Constantia, whose conduct is as unblamable as innocence itself? I see envy is as malignant in a paltry waiting wench, as in the vainest or most ambitious lady of the court.—It is always an infallible mark of the basest nature; and merit in the lowest, as well as in the highest station, must feel the shaft of envy's constant agents—falsehood and slander.
Enter SAM.
Sam. Sir, Mr. Egerton and Miss Constantia desire to speak with you in the china room.