(As Mrs. Talbot walks slowly on, the Farmer puts himself across her way, so as to stop her short.)
Farm. No offence, madam, I hope; but I have a good snug farm house, not far off hand; and if so be you’d be so good to take a night’s lodging, you and the young lady with you, you’d have a hearty welcome. That’s all I can say and you’d make my wife very happy; for she’s a good woman, to say nothing of myself.
Landlord. If I may be so bold to put in my word, madam, you’d have as good beds, and be as well lodged, with Farmer Hearty, as in e’er a house at Salt Hill.
Mrs. Talb. I am very much obliged—
Farm. O, say nothing o’ that, madam. I am sure I shall be as much obliged if you do come. Do, miss, speak for me.
Louisa. Pray, dear mother—
Farm. She will. (Calls behind the scenes.) Here, waiter! hostler! driver! what’s your name? drive the chaise up here to the door, smart, close. Lean on my arm, madam, and we’ll have you in and home in a whiff.
(Exeunt Mrs. Talbot, Louisa, Farmer, Landlord and Waiter.)
Landlady (sola). What a noise and a rout this farmer man makes! and my husband, with his great broad face, bowing, as great a nincompoop as t’other. The folks are all bewitched with the old woman, I verily believe. (Aloud.) A good morning to you, ladies.
END OF THE FIRST ACT.