"Osc. I thought, son, you would have been among the first and most eager to see Malvina upon her return.
"Colin. Oh, father, I would give half my flock to think that my presence would be welcome to her.
"Osc. I am sure you have never seen her prefer any one else.
"Col. There's the torment of it—were I but once sure that she loved another better, I think I should be content—at least she should not know but that I was so. My love is not of that jealous sort that I should pine to see her happy with another—nay, I could even regard the man that would make her so.
"Osc. Haven't you spoke with her since her return?
"Col. Yes, and I think she is colder to me than ever. My professions of love used formerly to make her laugh, but now they make her weep—formerly she seemed wholly insensible; now, alas, she seems to feel—but as if addressed by the wrong person," &c. &c.
In a following scene are introduced two brothers, both equally enamored of the fair Malvina, yet preserving their affection unaltered towards each other. With the recollection of Sheridan's own story fresh in our minds, we might suppose that he meant some reference to it in this incident, were it not for the exceeding niaiserie that he has thrown into the dialogue. For instance:—
"Osc. But we are interrupted—here are two more of her lovers— brothers, and rivals, but friends.
"Enter NICO and LUBIN.
"So, Nico—how comes it you are so late in your inquiries after your mistress?