Miss Als. [Looking at Lord Gayville.] Expressive dignity!—[Looking at Miss Alton.] Sweet simplicity! Amiable diffidence!——"She should execute my commands most awkwardly."
Lord G. [Aside.] There is but one way.—[To Miss Alscrip.] Madam, your sudden entrance has effected a discovery which with shame I confess ought to have been made before—The lady, who stands there, is in possession of my heart. If it is a crime to adore her, I am the most guilty wretch on earth—Pardon me if you can; my sincerity is painful to me—But in this crisis it is the only atonement I can offer.
[Bows and exit.
Miss Als. [After a Pause.] Admirable!—Perfect! The most finished declaration, I am convinced, that ever was made from beggarly nobility to the woman that was to make his fortune—the lady, who stands there—the lady—Madam—I am in patient expectation for the sincerity of your ladyship's atonement.
Miss Alton. I am confounded at the strange occurrences that have happened; but be assured you see in me an innocent and most unwilling rival.
Miss Als. Rival! better and better!—You—you give me uneasiness? You moppet—you coquet of the side table to catch the gawkey heir of the family, when he comes from school at Christmas—You—you you vile seducer of my good old honoured father; [Cries—In a passion again.] What, is my lady dumb? Hussy? Have you the insolence to hold your tongue?
Miss Alton. Madam, I just now offered to justify this scene; I thought it the part of duty to myself, and respect to you. But your behaviour has now left but one sentiment upon my mind.
Miss Als. And what is that, madam?
Miss Alton. [With pointed expression.] Scorn.