Sir Geo. Dumb still—sure this old Dog has enjoyn'd her Silence; I'll try another way— I must conclude, Madam, that in Compliance to your Guardian's Humour, you refuse to answer me— Consider the Injustice of his Injunction. This single Hour cost me a Hundred Pound—and wou'd you answer me, I cou'd purchase the 24 so: However, Madam, you must give me leave to make the best Interpretation I can for my Money, and take the Indication of your Silence for the secret Liking of my Person: Therefore, Madam, I will instruct you how to keep your Word inviolate to Sir Francis, and yet Answer me to every Question: As for Example, When I ask any thing, to which you wou'd Reply in the Affirmative, gently Nod your Head—thus; and when in the Negative thus; (Shakes his Head.) and in the doubtful a tender Sigh, thus
(Sighs.
Miran. How every Action charms me—but I'll fit him for Signs I warrant him.
(Aside.
Sir Fran. Ha, ha, ha, ha, poor Sir George, Ha, ha, ha, ha.
(Aside.
Sir Geo. Was it by his desire that you are Dumb, Madam, to all that I can say?
Miran. (Nods.)
Sir Geo. Very well! she's tractable I find— And is it possible that you can love him? Miraculous! (Miran. Nods.) Pardon the bluntness of my Questions, for my Time is short; may I not hope to supplant him in your Esteem? (Miran. Sighs.) Good! she answers me as I could wish— You'll not consent to marry him then? (Miran. Sighs.) How, doubtful in that— Undone again— Humph! but that may proceed from his Power to keep her out of her Estate till Twenty Five; I'll try that— Come, Madam, I cannot think you hesitate in this Affair out of any Motive, but your Fortune— Let him keep it till those few Years are expir'd; make me Happy with your Person, let him enjoy your Wealth—(Miran. holds up her Hands.) Why, what Sign is that now? Nay, nay, Madam, except you observe my Lesson, I can't understand your meaning—
Sir Fran. What a Vengeance, are they talking by Signs, 'ad I may be fool'd here; what do you mean, Sir George?