Walter. I know that the house is let to your father; but I confess, my dearest, that I have observed that he has sub-let himself to your respected mother.
Emily. And she has declared that she will never give her consent to our engagement.
Walter. But your father has given his, and that is a great point gained.
Emily. It may be a great point, but it is a very useless one. Mamma always has her own way. She pronounced her decision this morning, and when you quit the house to-day orders will be given that you are never allowed to enter it again.
Walter. Then clearly I must not quit it. I am a great believer in diplomacy, Emily. To go at the present time directly against your revered mother's will would be utterly to lose you; to lose you, my darling, would be far more than to lose my life; therefore, I have determined to humor your respected parent, until the fortunes of war give me an opportunity of ingratiating myself with her. Hush! She approaches. Now rely upon me, and in every way back me up.
(Enter Mrs. Watmuff, door L.)
Mrs. W. (glaring indignantly at Walter). Still here, sir! I thought that you had been instructed by my husband to quit these premises.
Walter. Madam, I am much to blame. That the wishes expressed, I am sure, after mature deliberation, of Mr. Watmuff and yourself, have been communicated to me, I cannot deny—and yet—I linger here.
Mrs. W. Linger no longer, sir; but obey our behest.
Walter. I am, madam, about to do so; but since this interview with my dear Emily must be my last—