MASC. And what else was the cause why you were suddenly turned out of doors? Yes, you are shut out by your own tittle-tattle. I do not know whether you play often at piquet, but you at least throw your cards away in an admirable manner.
LEL. Oh! I am the most unhappy of all men. But why did you drive me away also?
MASC. I never did better than in acting thus. By these means, at least, I prevent all suspicion of my being the inventor or an accomplice of this stratagem.
LEL. But you should have laid it on more gently.
MASC. I was no such fool! Trufaldin watched me most narrowly; besides, I must tell you, under the pretence of being of use to you, I was not at all displeased to vent my spleen. However, the thing is done, and if you will give me your word of honour, never, directly or indirectly, to be revenged on me for the blows on the back I so heartily gave you, I promise you, by the help of my present station, to satisfy your wishes within these two nights.
LEL. Though you have treated me very harshly, yet what would not such a promise prevail upon me to do?
MASC. You promise, then?
LEL. Yes, I do.
MASC. But that is not all; promise never to meddle in anything I take in hand.
LEL. I do.