Const. Let him muse; however, I'll lay fifty Pound our Foreman brings us in, Not Guilty.
Sir John. [Aside.] 'Tis well——'tis very well——In spite of that young Jade's matrimonial Intrigue, I am a downright stinking Cuckold——Here they are——Boo——[Putting his hand to his Forehead.] Methinks, I could butt with a Bull. What the Plague did I marry her for? I knew she did not like me; if she had, she wou'd have lain with me; for I wou'd have done so, because I lik'd her; but that's past, and I have her. And now, what shall I do with her?——If I put my Horns into my Pocket, she'll grow insolent——if I don't, that Goat there, that Stallion, is ready to whip me thro' the Guts.—The Debate then is reduced to this: Shall I die a Hero, or live a Rascal?——Why, wiser Men than I have long since concluded, that a living Dog is better than a dead Lion.——[To Const. and Heart.] Gentlemen, now my Wine and my Passion are governable, I must own, I have never observ'd any Thing in my Wife's Course of Life, to back me in my Jealousy of her: But Jealousy's a Mark of Love; so she need not trouble her Head about it, as long as I make no more Words on't.
Lady Fancyfull enters disguis'd, and addresses to Belinda apart.
Const. I'm glad to see your Reason rule at last. Give me your Hand: I hope you'll look upon me as you are wont.
Sir John. Your humble Servant. [Aside.] A wheedling Son of a Whore!
Heart. And that I may be sure you are Friends with me, too, pray give me your Consent to wed your Niece.
Sir John. Sir, you have it with all my Heart: Damn me if you han't. [Aside.] 'Tis time to get rid of her: A young, pert Pimp; she'll make an incomparable Bawd in a little time.
Enter a Servant, who gives Heartfree a Letter.
Bel. Heartfree your Husband, say you? 'Tis impossible.