Som. [Aside to War.] I think no less; be wise, and take no notice on’t;
He that can win her best deserves her.
War. [Aside to Som.] Marry
A serving-man? mew!
Som. [Aside to War.] Prithee, friend, no more.
Car. Gentlemen all, there’s within a slight dinner ready, if you please to taste of it; Master Thorney, Master Francis, Master Somerton.—Why, girls! what huswives! will you spend all your forenoon in tittle-tattles? away! it’s well, i’faith.—Will you go in, gentlemen?
O. Thor. We’ll follow presently; my son and I
Have a few words of business.
Car. At your pleasure. [Exeunt all but O. Thor. and Frank.
O. Thor. I think you guess the reason, Frank, for which
I sent for you.
Frank. Yes, sir.
O. Thor. I need not tell you
With what a labyrinth of dangers daily
The best part of my whole estate’s encumbered;
Nor have I any clue to wind it out
But what occasion proffers me; wherein
If you should falter, I shall have the shame,
And you the loss. On these two points rely
Our happiness or ruin. If you marry
With wealthy Carter’s daughter, there’s a portion
Will free my land; all which I will instate,[418]
Upon the marriage, to you: otherwise
I must be of necessity enforced
To make a present sale of all; and yet,
For aught I know, live in as poor distress,
Or worse, than now I do. You hear the sum?
I told you thus before; have you considered on’t?