Colonel S. I did.
Lady L. And were not you about that time entertained two nights at the house of Sir Oliver Manly, in Oxfordshire?
Colonel S. I was! I was! [Runs to her, and embraces her.] The blest remembrance fires my soul with transport——I know the rest——you are the charming she, and I the happy man.
Lady L. How has blind fortune stumbled on the right? But where have you wandered since?—'Twas cruel to forsake me.
Colonel S. The particulars of my fortune are too tedious now: but to discharge myself from the stain of dishonour, I must tell you, that immediately upon my return to the university, my elder brother and I quarrelled: my father, to prevent farther mischief, posts me away to travel: I wrote to you from London, but fear the letter came not to your hands.
Lady L. I never had the least account of you by letter, or otherwise.
Colonel S. Three years I lived abroad, and at my return, found you were gone out of the kingdom, though none could tell me whither: missing you thus, I went to Flanders, served my king till the peace commenced; then fortunately going on board at Amsterdam, one ship transported us both to England. At the first sight I loved, though ignorant of the hidden cause——You may remember, madam, that, talking once of marriage, I told you I was engaged—to your dear self I meant.
Lady L. Then men are still most generous and brave—and, to reward your truth, an estate of three thousand pounds a year waits your acceptance; and, if I can satisfy you in my past conduct, I shall expect the honourable performance of your promise, and that you will stay with me in England.
Colonel S. Stay—Nor fame, nor glory e'er shall part us more. My honour can be no where more concerned than here.
Enter Sir H. Wildair and Angelica.