Lord. Tell what you know, and I'll answer for your forgiveness.
Mari. Why, sir, I found the gentleman alone, and not having had a tête-a-tête a long time, I pressed him to stay, and, on hearing your voice, I put him behind the sofa,—that you might not think any thing had happened,—and, indeed, sir, nothing did happen—upon my word he's as quiet, inoffensive a gentleman as yourself.
Lord. My fears are over! Oh! you finished composition! come to my arms, and when I suspect you again—[Coughs much.]—this curst cough, it takes one so suddenly!
Enter Ennui.
Ennui. I've an idea—Floriville is arrived—in fact—I just now spoke to him.
Lord. Floriville arrived!—Come, my lady—let's go see what his travels have done for him.—Hark ye, Ennui—prepare for your interview with Louisa, and remember you make a mandarin member.—Come, my lady—nay, never irritate your feelings.
[Exeunt Lord and Lady.
Mari. So—poor Mr Neville is to lose Miss Courtney.—Her present quarrel with him is so violent, that she may marry this idiot merely in revenge.—If I could dupe him now, and ensure her contempt.—I'll try.—Mr Ennui, have you seen your intended wife yet?
Ennui. No.
Mari. So I thought—why you'll never please her while you remain as you are.—You must alter your manners.—She is all life!—all spirits!—and loves a man the very opposite to you.