Lady Fran. Is it possible! O, Sir George, could I have imagin'd it was you who depriv'd me of a creature I was so fond of?
Sir Geo. Mr. Flutter, you are one of those busy, idle, meddling people, who, from mere vacuity of mind, are, the most dangerous inmates in a family. You have neither feelings nor opinions of your own; but, like a glass in a tavern, bear about those of every Blockhead, who gives you his;—and, because you mean no harm, think yourselves excus'd, though broken friendships, discords, and murders, are the consequences of your indiscretions.
Flut. (taking out his Tablets) Vacuity of Mind!—What was the next? I'll write down this sermon; 'tis the first I have heard since my Grandmother's funeral.
Miss Ogle. Come, Lady Frances, you see what a cruel creature your loving Husband can be; so let us leave him.
Sir Geo. Madam, Lady Frances shall not go.
Lady Fran. Shall not, Sir George?—This is the first time such an expression—(weeping)
Sir Geo. My love! my life!
Lady Fran. Don't imagine I'll be treated like a Child! denied what I wish, and then pacified with sweet words.
Miss Ogle (apart). The Bullfinch! that's an excellent subject; never let it down.
Lady Fran. I see plainly you would deprive me of every pleasure, as well as of my sweet Bird—out of pure love!—Barbarous Man!