HARDCASTLE. But I heard a voice here; I should be glad to know from whence it came.
TONY. It was I, sir, talking to myself, sir. I was saying that forty miles in four hours was very good going. Hem. As to be sure it was. Hem. I have got a sort of cold by being out in the air. We’ll go in, if you please. Hem.
HARDCASTLE. But if you talked to yourself you did not answer yourself. I’m certain I heard two voices, and am resolved (raising his voice) to find the other out.
MRS. HARDCASTLE. (From behind.) Oh! he’s coming to find me out. Oh!
TONY. What need you go, sir, if I tell you? Hem. I’ll lay down my life for the truth—hem—I’ll tell you all, sir. [Detaining him.]
HARDCASTLE. I tell you I will not be detained. I insist on seeing. It’s in vain to expect I’ll believe you.
MRS. HARDCASTLE. (Running forward from behind.) O lud! he’ll murder my poor boy, my darling! Here, good gentleman, whet your rage upon me. Take my money, my life, but spare that young gentleman; spare my child, if you have any mercy.
HARDCASTLE. My wife, as I’m a Christian. From whence can she come? or what does she mean?
MRS. HARDCASTLE. (Kneeling.) Take compassion on us, good Mr. Highwayman. Take our money, our watches, all we have, but spare our lives. We will never bring you to justice; indeed we won’t, good Mr. Highwayman.
HARDCASTLE. I believe the woman’s out of her senses. What, Dorothy, don’t you know ME?