Enter Miss Alton, from the Bottom of the Scene.

Miss Alton. A pretty employment I am sent upon!

Lord G. [To himself.] Could she but know the sacrifice I am ready to make!

Miss Alton. [To herself.] The very picture of a lover, if absence of mind marks one. It is unpleasant for me to interrupt a man I never saw, but I shall deliver my message very concisely.—My lord——

Lord G. [Turning.] Madam. [Both start and stand in surprise.] Astonishment! Miss Alton! my charming fugitive?

Miss Alton. How, Mr. Heartly—Lord Gayville!

Lord G. My joy and my surprise are alike unutterable. But I conjure you, madam, tell me by what strange circumstance do I meet you here?

Miss Alton. [Aside.] Now assist me, honest pride! assist me, resentment.

Lord G. You spoke to me—Did you know me?

Miss Alton. No otherwise, my lord, than as Miss Alscrip's lover. I had a message from her to your lordship.