Tuneless
Tell me. What are you worried about? I will tell you if it is true.
Bramble
It must be, but I don't believe it.
Tuneless
Nor I, sir.
Bramble
My heart tells me enough. (hands over his eyes) My wife is dead.
Tuneless (aside) This give me an idea. Let him believe it. He is in love with Arabella, that's good, too. (aloud) Yes, my word, sir. There's no keeping it from you. One divines immediately what one fears or wishes most. You've guessed it. Your wife is—dead.
Bramble
I've observed that no one dared tell me the news.
Tuneless It jumps right at you. I dared not tell you. I am certain you are strong enough to bear it.
Bramble
It happens to everybody.
Tuneless
You take it like a Caesar.
Bramble
I bet she died Saturday night.