M. [Lips drawn closer: eye raised] Why, my dear!—I cannot but own— But how, I wonder, could you think of Mr. Anthony Harlowe?
D. How, Madam, could I think of any body else?
M. How could you think of any body else?—[angry, and drawing back her face]. But do you know the subject, Nancy?
D. You have told it, Madam, by your manner of breaking it to me. But, indeed, I question not that he had two motives in his visits—both equally agreeable to me; for all that family love me dearly.
M. No love lost, if so, between you and them. But this [rising] is what I get—so like your papa!—I never could open my heart to him!
D. Dear Madam, excuse me. Be so good as to open your heart to me.— I don't love the Harlowes—but pray excuse me.
M. You have put me quite out with your forward temper! [angrily sitting down again.]
D. I will be all patience and attention. May I be allowed to read his letter?
M. I wanted to advise with you upon it.—But you are such a strange creature!—you are always for answering one before one speaks!
D. You'll be so good as to forgive me, Madam.—But I thought every body (he among the rest) knew that you had always declared against a second marriage.