"Mar. Indeed, madam, you wrong me; and you who know the apprehension of love, should make allowance for its weakness. My love for Clerimont is so great—
"Lady S. Peace; it cannot exceed mine.
"Mar. For Sir Benjamin, perhaps not, ma'am—and, I am sure, Clerimont has as sincere an affection for me.
"Lady S. Would to heaven I could say the same!
"Mar. Of Sir Benjamin:—I wish so too, ma'am. But I am sure you would be extremely hurt, if, in gaining your wishes, you were to injure me in the opinion of Clerimont.
"Lady S. Undoubtedly; I would not for the world—Simple fool! (aside.) But my wishes, my happiness depend on you—for, I doat so on the insensible, that it kills me to see him so attached to you. Give me but Clerimont, and—
"Mar. Clerimont!
"Lady S. Sir Benjamin, you know, I meant. Is he not attached to you? am I not slighted for you? Yet, do I bear any enmity to you, as my rival? I only request your friendly intercession, and you are so ungrateful, you would deny me that.
"Mar. Nay, madam, have I not done everything you wished? For you, I have departed from truth, and contaminated my mind with falsehood— what could I do more to serve you?
"Lady S. Well, forgive me, I was too warm. I know you would not betray me. I expect Sir Benjamin and his uncle this morning—why, Maria, do you always leave our little parties?