Tat. Nay, good madam, be comforted.
Wid. Thou shalt not have me. [Pushes Tat.
Tat. Nay, good madam, 'tis I, 'tis I, your ladyship's own woman—'tis I, madam, that dress you, and talk to you, and tell you all that's done in the house every day; 'tis I——
Wid. Is it, then, possible? Is it, then, possible that I am left? Speak to me not—hold me not. I'll break the listening walls with my complaints. [Looks surprised at seeing company, then severely at Tattleaid.] Ah! Tattleaid——
1st La. Nay, madam, be not angry at her, we would come in in spite of her. We are your friends and are as concerned as you——
Wid. Ah! madam, madam, madam, madam, I am an undone woman. Oh me! Alas! Alas! Oh! Oh! [All join in her notes.] I swoon—I expire. [Faints.
2nd La. Pray, Mrs. Tattleaid, bring something that is cordial to her. [Exit Tattleaid.
3rd La. Indeed, madam, you should have patience. His lordship was old. To die is but going before in a journey we must all take.
Enter Tattleaid loaded with bottles. 3rd Lady takes a bottle from her and drinks.
4th La. Lord, how my Lady Fleer drinks; I've heard, indeed, but never could believe it of her. [Drinks also.