SIR CHARLES. And you never grasped her hand, or made any protestations?
MARLOW. As Heaven is my witness, I came down in obedience to your commands. I saw the lady without emotion, and parted without reluctance. I hope you’ll exact no farther proofs of my duty, nor prevent me from leaving a house in which I suffer so many mortifications. [Exit.]
SIR CHARLES. I’m astonished at the air of sincerity with which he parted.
HARDCASTLE. And I’m astonished at the deliberate intrepidity of his assurance.
SIR CHARLES. I dare pledge my life and honour upon his truth.
HARDCASTLE. Here comes my daughter, and I would stake my happiness upon her veracity.
Enter MISS HARDCASTLE.
HARDCASTLE. Kate, come hither, child. Answer us sincerely and without reserve: has Mr. Marlow made you any professions of love and affection?
MISS HARDCASTLE. The question is very abrupt, sir. But since you require unreserved sincerity, I think he has.
HARDCASTLE. (To SIR CHARLES.) You see.