Elv. There is—and I hope it too—sincerely hope and request it—to see you again, wou'd be again to behold my father pining in misery.
Aur. Explain— [A loud rapping at the door.] that is, Sir Luke, and Lady Tremor—what shall I say, shou'd they come hither? they suspect I correspond with some person in the country—who shall I say you are? upon what business can I say you are come?
Elv. To avoid all suspicion of my real situation, and to be sure to gain admittance, I put on this habit, and told the servant, when I inquired for you, I was just arrived from England—[She starts.] nay, it was but necessary I should conceal who I was in this suspicious place, or I might plunge a whole family in the imputed guilt of mine.
Aur. Good Heaven!
Elv. I feared, besides, there was no other means; no likelihood to gain admission—and what, what wou'd I not have sacrificed, rather than left you for ever without a last farewell? think on these weighty causes, and pardon the deception.
Aur. But if they should ask me—
Elv. Say, as I have done—my stay must be so short, it is impossible they shou'd detect me—for I must be back—
Aur. Where?
Elv. No matter where—I must be back before the evening—and would almost wish never to see you more—I love you, Aurelia—O, how truly! and yet there is a love more dear, more sacred still.
Aur. You torture me with suspense—Sir Luke is coming this way—what name shall I say, if he asks me?