Doric. Well—enough of description. Introduce me to this phœnix; I came on purpose.
Sir Geo. Introduce!—oh, aye, to be sure—I believe Lady Frances is engaged just now—but another time. How handsome the dog looks to-day! Aside.
Doric. Another time!—but I have no other time. 'Sdeath! this is the only hour I can command this fortnight!
Sir Geo. [Aside. I am glad to hear it, with all my soul.] So then, you can't dine with us to-day? That's very unlucky.
Doric. Oh, yes—as to dinner—yes, I can, I believe, contrive to dine with you to-day.
Sir Geo. Psha! I didn't think on what I was saying; I meant supper.—You can't sup with us?
Doric. Why, supper will be rather more convenient than dinner.—But you are fortunate—if you had ask'd me any other night, I could not have come.
Sir Geo. To-night!—Gad, now I recollect, we are particularly engaged to-night.—But to-morrow night—
Doric. Why look ye, Sir George, 'tis very plain you have no inclination to let me see your wife at all; so here I sit (throws himself on a sopha.)—There's my hat, and here are my legs.—Now I sha'n't stir till I have seen her; and I have no engagements: I'll breakfast, dine, and sup with you every day this week.
Sir Geo. Was there ever such a provoking wretch! But, to be plain with you, Doricourt, I and my house are at your service: but you are a damn'd agreeable fellow, and ten years younger than I am; and the women, I observe, always simper when you appear. For these reasons, I had rather, when Lady Frances and I are together, that you should forget we are acquainted, further than a nod, a smile, or a how-d'ye.