Dam. Ha! ha! you are annoyed—I see you are, and it gratifies me; and my countenance always shows the gratification of my heart! When I see a woman vexed, I revel in the sight! Go into a rage, do—I should like to see you furious!
Miss Mac. Oh, dear no, sir; you shall be disappointed. If my anger is a source of pleasure to you, it shall be subdued immediately. (Places him a chair in C.) Pray, sir, sit down—make yourself happy! Will you take a glass of wine? or shall I get my guitar and sing you a love song?
Dam. (Sitting down, R.) I should like to taste the one and listen to the other, amazingly; but for once I’ll save you your wine and spare your vocal acquirements, and merely ask you a question, which I am sure you will answer, as I can perceive I have already made a favorable impression on your heart.
Miss Mac. Well, sir, I will for once make an effort to be civil. What do you wish to know?
Dam. Who is that young man?
Miss Mac. I really cannot inform you—I know no more of him than I do of you; and I need not tell you that I wish to know nothing of either!
Dam. Then, madam, allow me to say that I am astonished.
Miss Mac. At what, sir?
Dam. At a woman of your palpable experience opening your door to a stranger. How do you know what he may be? An assassin, a sharper, a seducer, perhaps.
Miss Mac. For the matter of that, sir, this door has been opened to you, and, for aught I know, you may be one of those characters! Oh, sir, look indignant if you please, but whatever you may be, in my eyes your whole sex is hateful. You are all brimful of deceit, design, villainy, selfishness, and brutality! Had I my will, my door should be barred and double-locked against your entire gender!