And her affections dark as Erebus:

Let no such dame be trusted!

Mrs. Pet.—Ha! this is more than I can brook; my tongue’s my own to wag it as I will, therefore attempt not to criticise my criticisms——I repeat, the fellow sings like a Scandinavian bag-pipe.

Helena.—Ladies, pray be still! He may hear your dreadful comments.

[Knock heard at door.]

’Tis he!

Mrs. Othello.—Let him not in until I depart! If Mr. Othello should happen to step in and find me in company with this gallant youth his jealousy would know no bounds!

[Knock repeated.]

Mrs. Pet.—Nonsense! I hope he does come, I’d like to give him my opinion of jealous husbands—

Foul jealousy! that turnest love divine