"Sir B. So, Clerimont—we were just wishing for you to enliven us with your wit and agreeable vein.
"Cler. No, Sir Benjamin, I cannot join you.
"Sir B. Why, man, you look as grave as a young lover the first time he is jilted.
"Cler. I have some cause to be grave, Sir Benjamin. A word with you all. I have just received a letter from the country, in which I understand that my sister has suddenly left my uncle's house, and has not since been heard of.
"Lady S. Indeed! and on what provocation?
"Cler. It seems they were urging her a little too hastily to marry some country squire that was not to her taste.
"Sir B. Positively I love her for her spirit.
"Lady S. And so do I, and would protect her, if I knew where she was.
"Cler. Sir Benjamin, a word with you—(takes him apart.) I think, sir, we have lived for some years on what the world calls the footing of friends.
"Sir B. To my great honor, sir.—Well, my dear friend?