Why, I think, Sir, there's no other way of settling to one's satisfaction.
To be sure, it is very necessary your Lordship should consider on those matters,—especially as you are the last of a noble family:—when, you do fix, I hope it will be prudently.
Prudently, Sir James! you may depend on it I will never settle my affections imprudently.
Wall, but, my Lord, what are your notions of prudence?
Why, Sir, to make choice of a person who is virtuous, sensible, well descended.—Well descended Jenkings has assured me she is.
You say nothing, my Lord, of what is most essential to happiness;—nothing of the main point.
Good-nature, I suppose you mean:—I would not marry an ill-natur'd woman, Sir James, for the world. And is good-nature, with those you have mention'd, the only requisites?
I think they are the chief, Sir.
You and I differ much, my Lord.—Your father left his estate encumbered; it is not yet clear; you are of age, my Lord: pray, spare yourself the trouble of consulting me, if you do not think of fortune.
Duty to the memory of my rever'd father, the affection and gratitude I owe you, Sir James, calls for my obedience:—without your sanction, Sir, never shall my hand be given.