Dunn. I suppose not; but don't you think that kind of treatment is rather too harsh?
Smith. Oh, dear no; on the contrary, I think a little now and again does them a power of good.
Dunn. (aside) What a hard hearted fellow he must be. He will have to alter his opinions before he marries my daughter, that he will. (aloud) I may tell you, Mr. Smith, that if I thought you would ill-treat Fanny at all, I should not allow you to take her.
Smith. Don't be afraid of that, my dear sir. I should not ill-treat her if it were not necessary. Does she shy at all when she is out?
Dunn. Shy! That is a peculiar question to ask about a——
Smith. Not at all, Mr. Dunnbrowne. I like to know what I am getting. If I take her from you and find that she shies at anything I shall get rid of her without delay. I shall indeed.
Dunn. (aside) Well, that is cool. He has the impudence to tell me that he would "get rid" of my daughter. I am beginning to dislike this fellow.
Smith. You see, Mr. Dunnbrowne, I want one who will go ahead in the face of everything—a regular fast one that's the sort.
Dunn. (aside) What peculiar taste some men have!
Smith. Is Fanny ever troubled with corns?