Mr. Glanville, who was convinced all this confusion was caused by some of Arabella's usual whims, dreaded lest an explanation would the more expose her; and therefore told his father that it would be best to retire, and leave his cousin to the care of his sister and her women; adding, that she was not yet quite recovered, and their presence did but discompose her.
Then addressing himself to Tinsel, he told him he would wait upon him down stairs.
Arabella seeing them going away together, and supposing they intended to dispute the possession of her with their swords, called out to them to stay.
Mr. Glanville, however, without minding her, pressed Mr. Tinsel to walk down.
Nay, pray, sir, said the beau, let us go in again; she may grow outrageous, if we disoblige her.
Outrageous, sir! said Glanville: do you suppose my cousin is mad?
Upon my soul, sir, replied Tinsel, if she is not mad, she is certainly a little out of her senses, or so——
Arabella having reiterated her commands for her lovers to return, and finding they did not obey her, ran to her chamber-door, where they were holding a surly sort of conference, especially on Glanville's side, who was horridly out of humour.
I perceive by your looks, said Arabella to her cousin, the design you are meditating; but know that I absolutely forbid you, by all the power I have over you, not to engage in combat with my ravisher here.
Madam, interrupted Glanville, I beseech you, do not——