Chr. Truly, madam, this is very rational; and by the blessing of heaven upon my poor endeavours, I do not doubt to play my part.
L. Dupe. My blessing and my prayers go along with thee.
Enter Sir John Swallow, Mrs Millisent, and Rose, her maid.
Chr. I believe, madam, here is the young heiress you expect, and with her he who is to marry her.
L. Dupe. However I am Sir Martin's friend, I must not seem his enemy.
Sir John. Madam, this fair young lady begs the honour to be known to you.
Mill. My father made me hope it, madam.
L. Dupe. Sweet lady, I believe you have brought all the freshness of the country up to town with you.
[They salute.
Mill. I came up, madam, as we country-gentlewomen use, at an Easter-term, to the destruction of tarts and cheese-cakes, to see a new play, buy a new gown, take a turn in the park, and so down again to sleep with my fore-fathers.
Sir John. Rather, madam, you are come up to the breaking of many a poor heart, that, like mine, will languish for you.