Mar. [aside]. He has got our names from the servants already. [To Hardcastle.] We approve your caution and hospitality. [To Hastings.] I have been thinking, George, of changing our traveling dresses in the morning, I am grown confoundedly ashamed of mine.
Mr. H. [putting chairs and tables in order in background]. I beg, Mr. Marlow, you'll use no ceremony in this house.
Hast. I fancy, George, you're right; the first blow is half the battle. I intend opening the campaign with the white and gold.
Mr. H. Mr. Marlow—Mr. Hastings—gentlemen—pray be under no restraint in this house. This is Liberty Hall, gentlemen. You may do just as you please here.
Mar. Yet, George, if we open the campaign too fiercely at first, we may want ammunition before it is over. I think to reserve the embroidery to secure a retreat.
Mr. H. Your talking of a retreat, Mr. Marlow, puts me in mind of the Duke of Marlborough, when he went to besiege Denain. He first summoned the garrison—
Mar. Aye, and we'll summon your garrison, old boy.
Mr. H. He first summoned the garrison, which might consist of about five thousand men—
Hast. What a strange fellow is this!
Mr. H. I say, gentlemen, as I was telling you, he summoned the garrison, which might consist of about five thousand men—