MISTRESS MERTON Tush? “Tush” to me? Tush!

[Richard, who has been stifling his feelings at Rachel’s rebuff, and has stood fidgeting at a civil distance from her, now walks up to Justice Merton.]

RICHARD Intolerable! Do you approve of this, sir? Are Lord Ravensbane’s credentials satisfactory?

JUSTICE MERTON Eminently, eminently.

RICHARD Ah! So her ladyship’s letter is—

JUSTICE MERTON Charming; charming.

RICHARD To be sure; old friends, when they are lords, it makes such a difference.

DICKON True friends—old friends; New friends—cold friends. N’est ce pas, your worship?

JUSTICE MERTON Indeed, Master Dickonson; indeed! [To Richard, as Dickon goes toward Ravensbane and Rachel.] What happiness to encounter the manners of the nobility!

RICHARD If you approve them, sir, it is sufficient. This is your house. [He turns away.]