Gilb. Yes, but I can though: since you drive me to the wall, I must say no, and I do say no. And, dang it, I would have been hanged almost as soon as say so much to a father. I beg your pardon, sir, but my heart is given to another. Good evening to you.
Christy. (holding him as he attempts to go) Take it coolly, and listen to me, and tell me—was you ever married before, Mr. Gilbert?
Gilb. Never.
Christy. Then I was—and I can tell you that I found to my cost, love was all in all with me before I was married, and after I had been married a twel’-month, money was all in all with me; for I had the wife, and I had not the money, and without the money, the wife must have starved.
Gilb. But I can work, sir, and will, head, hands, and heart, for the woman I love.
Christy. Asy said—hard done. Mabel Larken is a very pretty girl. But wait till I tell you what Kit Monaghan said to me yesterday. I’m going to be married, sir, says he to me. Ay, so you mintioned to me a fortnight ago, Kit, says I—to Rose Dermod, isn’t it? says I. Not at all, sir, says he—it is to Peggy McGrath, this time. And what quarrel had you to Rose Dermod? says I. None in life, sir, says he; but Peggy McGrath had two cows, and Rose Dermod had but the one, and in my mind there is not the differ of a cow betwix’ one woman and another. Do you understand me now, Mr. Gilbert?
Gilb. Sir, we shall never understand one another—pray let me go, before I get into a passion.
{Breaks from CHRISTY, and exit.
Christy. Hollo! Hollo! Mr. Gilbert! (GILBERT returns.) One word more about the new inn. I’ve done about Florry; and, upon my conscience, I believe you’re right enough—only that I’m her father, and in duty bound to push her as well as I can.
Gilb. Well, sir, about the inn: be at a word with me; for I’m not in a humour to be trifled with.