Tuneless Fear nothing. These two departed will not meet so soon. For Desmond is keeping the widow in the garden, and we are keeping the husband here. The Countess is in on the plot, and is going to keep him in his apartment, one way or another.
Arabella
Hurry then, to do on our side as well as Desmond has done on his.
Tuneless You must make your contribution by making the old widower in love, while Desmond does the same with the widow.
(Enter Steward, Countess, Lucy.)
Countess Love doesn't hide itself, sir, and you have accosted me in a manner that convinces me you have a great deal for Arabella.
Bramble
Not at all, Madame, but with respect—
Countess I have only one word to say to you about the matter. If you don't want me to marry off Arabella, and to keep her to console you in your grief, and then later marry her—then you must do something for your nephew. You know how highly I think of Desmond. I have spoken to you a hundred times for him—uselessly. And I am going to take this opportunity—the solicitor is downstairs—I am going to marry Arabella, before your very eyes, if you don't transfer some of your wealth to Desmond.
Bramble
I am a reasonable man.
Countess
We'll go see. But, come to my apartment to agree on the contract.
Follow us, Arabella. Your presence will facilitate this little
accommodation.
(Exit Bramble, Countess, Arabella, and Tuneless. After a moment, enter
Desmond and Lucy.)