Poly. (His countenance gradually betraying his satisfaction.) The dear boy! He is indebted to me for his logic. Aristotle himself would have been proud of such a pupil. That’s something like conducting an argument. I have not a word to reply.
Charles. But there is no time to be lost; you must at once decide. If you consent to protect us, we shall for ever consider you our friend—our saviour. You shall pass your days with us; we will be a comfort to your age; our children shall thank you; and, as you moulded their father’s mind, so shall you give the bent to their’s.
Poly. My dear Charles, I will encounter anything for your sake: whatever may befal me, I swear not to betray your interests. This will be a sad disappointment to your father. You must allow me a few days to consider the best mode of breaking the affair to him. But where have you left your—it was only this morning I rapped his knuckles for a false quantity—your wife?
Charles. Left her? She’s here!
Poly. What, here! in the house?
Charles. In my father’s study, in the garden. Taking advantage of his absence, I have, for many days, concealed her there; but his sudden return compels me to seek some other retreat for her. Aided by the growing darkness, I have removed her. She is waiting there in the garden. I will confide her to your care.
Poly. Hold, hold! Confide a woman to my care!
Charles. Ay; your apartment is the most secure. No one will suspect that a female is concealed there. (Runs towards the garden.) Harriet, Harriet! This way.
Poly. (In great consternation.) Stay—what would you do? Should she be discovered here, I’m ruined, undone!—Oh! she’s here!
Enter Harriet.