Lord A. Then I am indeed undone!
O’Ded. Shall I call the officers now, my lord? Mr. Austencourt, I should say; I ask pardon for the blunder: and now, ladies and gentlemen, be pleased to hear me speak. This extraordinary discovery is just exactly what I did not expect. It is true I had a bit of a discovery of my own to make: for I find that the habits of my profession though they haven’t led me to commit acts of knavery, have too often induced me to wink at them. Therefore as his quandam lordship has now certainly lost Miss Helen, I hope he’ll have no objection to do justice in another quarter. [Exit.
Sir R. Oh, Charles! my much injured nephew! how shall I ever dare to look upon you more?
Charles. Nay, nay, sir, I am too brimful of joy at my opening prospects here (taking Helen’s hand) to cherish any other feeling than forgiveness and good humour. Here is my hand, sir, and with it I pledge myself to oblivion of all the past, except the acts of kindness I have received from you.
Sir W. That’s a noble generous young dog—My lady Worret, I wonder whether he’ll offer to marry Helen now?
Lady W. Of course, after what has passed, you’ll think it decent to refuse for a short time: but you are the best judge, sir Willoughby, and your will shall in future be mine—
Sir W. Shall it—that’s kind—then I will refuse him to please you: for when you’re so reasonable, how can I do otherwise than oblige you.
Lady W. (aside.) Leave me alone to manage him still.
Enter O’Dedimus, introducing Fanny.
Lord A. (seeing Fanny.) Ah, traitor!