DE W. Didn’t say that, ’pa! Then why don’t you speak out? Wear your mind in your face, as I do, or as my young friend here, with whom I want to speak a few words in private. So, go and see how they are getting on with the coffee.
WHITE. (R.) And don’t forget, that you are engaged to me for the first set, and the Polka, and the Lancers.
DE W. Of course, she won’t forget. Run along child.
Exit, AGATHA, C., off, L.
Now, I can give vent to my feelings; Whitewash, you’ve done it. I was long making up my mind, but now, you’ve done it. You are one of the men I like. (shakes his hand violently—they sit)
WHITE. My dear sir, I’m most happy. (wringing his hand)
DE W. Of course you are. Look you, it’s only now that I like you; this very morning I weighed your merits with those of Tom Tango of the Stock Exchange, who you know has a sneaking kindness for my girl, and the balance was considerably in Tom’s favour. He’s a better looking fellow than you, and his conversation is more agreeable. Then, what’s a lawyer? said I, a creature all brains and no heart? no heart, sir! But now, I’m changed, my views are more enlarged—more expansive—I have been——
WHITE. Dining out?
DE W. No, I have been in the Central Criminal Court, during the cause, “The Queen v. Pawkins.”
WHITE. Ah, I see! and you heard my speech for the defence. It was not bad, was it?