R. It’s no secret, Tristram, that you love Miss Flora.
T. No, damn it: but it was a secret: and the best of them all. But now my master’s gone, I dare tell you a secret, sir. I always disliked you extremely from the first: and I don’t think better of you now.—I have to put a few things together before the maids come to do the room; and if you don’t go, I shall leave you to be dusted out. 2780
R. Wait, Tristram: I can teach you better manners. And I have a service to ask of you. Here’s a purse to help you and Flora. (giving.)
T. Well, this is a different matter. I am sure, sir, I am very much obliged to you. But I never saw the colour of your money before. (Aside.) More ducats!
R. No: because you served me better by trying to disoblige me. Now I pay you to oblige me in a trifling matter. ’Tis to find out Sir Gregory and deliver this letter to him.
T. Certainly, sir. Is there anything else that you may require, sir?
R. Yes. Just light me a taper, and I’ll seal the letter. You see I don’t trust you altogether, Tristram: not yet.
T. You may, sir. I want no more of Mr. Frederick’s secrets. Not that they were at all times unprofitable, though he never himself gave me a penny on their 2800 account.
R. (having sealed). Here ’tis. Will you please take it at once?
T. (taking). I will, sir. (Aside.) More secrets still: and more ducats. [Exit.