Summerfield meeting her from the other.
Ara. Mr. Summerfield, I now am truly happy, my Prayers at last are heard; and Heaven has restored my Husband to my Arms.
Sum. I just now heard the joyful News, and thought to have been my self the welcome Messenger of his Return, but find I’me come too late; have you seen him?
Art. No; as yet I have not.
Sum. ’Tis somewhat strange!
Ara. Others perhaps may judg it so, but my uncommon Joy for his Return, admits no other Thought, but those of Transport for his Safety.
Sum. O happy Bonvile! How I admire and wonder at thy Choice!
Enter Friendly.
Madam, a Wife like you, exceeds the greatest Blessing sure on Earth.
Fr. [Aside.] The nearest way to a secure Revenge, is private Malice, which, like a Spark long lying hid amongst neglected Ashes, by the least Blast of Wind becomes it self a Flame—Ha!, who have we here? Thrice blest Occasion! which thus have offered me at once the Scope of my revengeful Wishes. ’Tis Arabella and her Darling Summerfield, one who, in the Bridegroom’s Absence, is grown thus intimate with his beloved Bride. A strong Foundation on which I’ll now erect a brave Revenge; I’ll step aside and observe them.
[Retires to one side of the Stage.