Mrs. Y. You're such a wag, there's never any knowing
When you are serious, or half in jest.
Dear Mrs. Muffle, you that know him best,
Shall we believe him?
Mrs. M. Oh, I can say nothing,
[All laugh for some minutes, on and off, at the possibly intended wit of Mr. Muffle; and the tittering having died off gradually, there is a pause.]
Mrs. M. (to Mrs. Y.) Have you been out much lately?
Mrs. Y. No, indeed,
The dampness in the air prevented me.
Mrs. S. 'Tis rather drier now.
Mrs. Y. I think it is.
I hope I shall be getting out next week,
If I can find a clear and frosty day.
Mr. M. I think 'tis very probable you will.
Mrs. Y. I'm quite delighted to have heard you say so;
But are you quizzing us. You're such a quiz!
Mr. M. (with serious earnestness.) Believe me, Mrs. Yawnley, when I say
I've far too much regard—too much esteem—
For one I've known as long as I've known you,
To say a word intending to mislead;
In friendship's solemn earnestness I said,
And say again, pledging my honor on it,
'Tis my belief we may, ere very long,
Some clear and frosty days anticipate.