Fri. Yes, Sir.
Sum. True, Sir, I am; For, at his Return to Town from Barn-Elms, it was my Chance to meet him; and after a ceremonious Complement or two, I found him diving into my private Thoughts concerning the Bride your Daughter: I, not to be behind-hand with him, join’d Wit with Wit to sound his shallow Soul. I told him then, how her Jewels once were mine; but the manner of my obtaining them, I for my own sake did conceal from him; and now, if you’re disposed, I’ll here relate it.
Enter Bonvile leading Arabella, Clara and Spruce, Mr. Venter and Mrs. Venter.
Mer. Let it be before all this Company then: What, and my Son and Daughter too so loving again? Nay then all’s well, ods bobs it is, and they shall hear it, ods bobs they shall.
Bon. I have heard the Story, Sir, already; and Friendly, you I pardon too, for Enemies in War take all Occasions to undo each other; yet tho I am your Enemy, I’ll be generous still, and make you Master of your wish’d for Mistress.
[To Clara.]
Come, Madam, receive this worthier Passion of your Friendly, whom I know you both admire and love.
[Gives her to Friendly.
Next I must obtain your Pardon for my Rashness.
Sum. Sir, ’tis what I first ought to have begg’d of you: And that the World may’nt tax this innocent Lady of a Crime to her purest Thoughts unknown, I’ll here begin my Story from my first Acquaintance to this happy Hour.
Mer. Prithy do.
Sum. The first time that I e’re beheld her Face, I wou’d have robb’d her.
Mer. Ah Rogue! What, a Thief, a Thief, what wou’d you have robb’d her of?
Sum. Not her Honour, I assure you, Sir, but only of those Jewels which she wears.