MRS. FRAIL. No, why so?
BEN. Why, an you do, you may run the risk to be overset, and then you’ll carry your keels above water, he, he, he!
ANG. I swear, Mr. Benjamin is the veriest wag in nature—an absolute sea-wit.
SIR SAMP. Nay, Ben has parts, but as I told you before, they want a little polishing. You must not take anything ill, madam.
BEN. No, I hope the gentlewoman is not angry; I mean all in good part, for if I give a jest, I’ll take a jest, and so forsooth you may be as free with me.
ANG. I thank you, sir, I am not at all offended. But methinks, Sir Sampson, you should leave him alone with his mistress. Mr. Tattle, we must not hinder lovers.
TATT. Well, Miss, I have your promise. [Aside to Miss.]
SIR SAMP. Body o’ me, madam, you say true. Look you, Ben, this is your mistress. Come, Miss, you must not be shame-faced; we’ll leave you together.
MISS. I can’t abide to be left alone; mayn’t my cousin stay with me?
SIR SAMP. No, no. Come, let’s away.