MRS. F. But this strange intrusion?
RECK. It is useless to conceal anything. You have doubtless heard of De Mowbray—I am he.
MRS. F. The clandestine lover of Miss Julia, a person about whom no one knows anything. But as you have relied on my mercy, I will not betray you—I will assist you.
RECK. Dear, kind madam!
MRS. F. I will assist you to get out, I say. Return into that basket; two of the footman shall carry you out to any place you may name, no one shall know of your being here.
RECK. (aside.) Oh, curse such kindness! Madam, consider—get into the basket again? I have a pattern of the wicker work impressed upon me from head to foot at present, independent of the lumps and bruises I have received.
MRS. F. I can offer no other alternative. I cannot encourage your addresses to Miss Julia; then I must consider my own character. Return into the basket, and I will go and order the footmen to come up immediately.
RECK. Well, madam, if there is no alternative, send me to this direction. (gives card, and re-enters basket.) Be sure to tell them to keep the right side upwards.
MRS. F. I will, sir; the contents of the basket shall be taken care of to the full value of the article.
[Exit, R. H.