Mich. (acquiring confidence) Nor am I partial to him.
Ben. Nor I neither, heaven knows! there’s my hand upon it. Father, you’re a very sensible honest man.
Mich. You appear to be well acquainted with the prior’s character: but for heaven’s sake do not betray me!
Ben. I betray you? to be sure one ought not to wish one’s neighbour ill. But if the fire, which lately consumed a wing of your convent, had consumed in it—you understand me, I wont say no more: but if a certain event had taken place, I dont believe I should have broken my heart for grief, father.
Mich. The prior was absent at the time of the conflagration; he ran no danger; but that accident may be the source of other dangers to him, of which at present he little dreams.
Ben. Indeed! as how, pray, as how? as how? dear, I shall be mighty glad to hear how.
Mich. I dare not explain myself except to your lord. But tell me, good old man, is not the viceroy greatly interested in the fate of young Venoni?
Ben. Extremely.
Mich. Is he aware, that tomorrow Venoni will pronounce his vows?
Ben. Bless my heart! so soon!