ABSOLUTE
Well, well.
FAG And, in tenderness to my character, if your honour could bring in the chairmen and waiters, I should esteem it as an obligation; for though I never scruple a lie to serve my master, yet it hurts one's conscience to be found out. [Exit.]
ABSOLUTE Now for my whimsical friend—if he does not know that his mistress is here, I'll tease him a little before I tell him——
[Enter FAULKLAND.]
Faulkland, you're welcome to Bath again; you are punctual in your return.
FAULKLAND Yes; I had nothing to detain me, when I had finished the business I went on. Well, what news since I left you? how stand matters between you and Lydia?
ABSOLUTE Faith, much as they were; I have not seen her since our quarrel; however, I expect to be recalled every hour.
FAULKLAND
Why don't you persuade her to go off with you at once?
ABSOLUTE What, and lose two-thirds of her fortune? you forget that, my friend.—No, no, I could have brought her to that long ago.
FAULKLAND Nay then, you trifle too long—if you are sure of her, propose to the aunt in your own character, and write to Sir Anthony for his consent.