Clink. What just occasion for noble description! these players are exceeding dilatory.
—In the mean time, Sir, shall I be oblig'd to you and this lady for the rehearsal of a scene that I have been just touching up with some lively strokes.
Town. I dare assure you, madam, it will be a pleasure to us both. I'll take this occasion to inform you of my present circumstances.
[To Plotwell.
Clink. Imagine Deucalion and Pyrrha in their boat. They pass by a promontory, where stands prince Hæmon a former lover of Pyrrah's, ready to be swallowed up by the devouring flood. She presses her husband to take him into the boat. Your part, Sir, is Hæmon; the lady personates Pyrrha; and I represent Deucalion. To you, Sir.
[Gives Plotwell the manuscript.
Plot. What ho, there sculler!
[reads.
Town. ——Hæmon!
Plot. ———Yes, 'tis Hæmon!
Town. Thou seest me now sail'd from my former lodgings,
Beneath a husband's ark; yet fain I would reward
Thy proffer'd love. But Hæmon, ah, I fear
Tomorrow's eve will hide me in the country.
Clink. Not a syllable in the part! wrong, all wrong!
Plot. Through all the town, with diligent enquiries,
I sought my Pyrrha——