“I told her that I came with verses for you, ordered by Mr. Vane. That he admired you. I descanted, madam, on your virtues, which had made him your slave.”
“Go on,” said Mrs. Woffington, encouraging him with a deceitful smile. “Tell me all you told her.”
“That you were sitting to me for your portrait, the destination of which was not doubtful. That I lived at 10, Hercules Buildings.”
“You told that lady all this?”
“I give my honor. She was so kind, I opened my heart to her. But tell me now, madam,” said Triplet, joyously dancing round the Woffington volcano, “do you know this charming lady?”
“Yes.”
“I congratulate you, madam. An acquaintance worthy even of you; and there are not many such. Who is she, madam?” continued Triplet, lively with curiosity.
“Mrs. Vane,” was the quiet, grim answer.
“Mrs. Vane? His mother? No—am I mad? His sister! Oh, I see, his—”
“His wife!”