Ind. Should I think I deserve this, 'twere enough to make my vanity forfeit the very esteem you offer me.
Bev. How so, madam?
Ind. Because esteem is the result of reason, and to deserve it from good sense, the height of human glory. Nay, I had rather a man of honour should pay me that, than all the homage of a sincere and humble love.
Bev. Jun. You certainly distinguish right, madam; love often kindles from external merit only.
Ind. But esteem rises from a higher source, the merit of the soul.
Bev. Jun. True—And great souls only can deserve it. [Bowing respectfully.
Ind. Now I think they are greater still, that can so charitably part with it.
Bey. Jun. Now, madam, you make me vain, since the utmost pride and pleasure of my life is, that I esteem you as I ought.
Ind. [Aside.] As he ought! still more perplexing! he neither saves nor kills my hope.