MRS. L. You see, my son, though I do not wish the servants to be
disrespectful to you, I require you to treat them with kindness. They
are human beings like you.
EDWARD (_contemptuously_). Like _me_! I should think not.
MR. S. Yes, sir! They are not rich, to be sure, or born of a high
family, nor is it likely that their heads will ever burst with the
knowledge a fine, thorough education gives; but they are capable of
every good and noble quality of the heart. Do you understand?
EDWARD. Yes, Mr. Sherwood.
MRS. L. Try to make everybody love you.
EDWARD. Dear mamma, I don't care for any love but yours.
MR. S. But you must care for the respect and friendship of others;
which, as Addison says, "improves happiness and abates misery, by
doubling our joys and dividing our griefs."
EDWARD (_sneeringly_). He talks like a book, don't he, mamma?
MRS. L. He does, indeed; and if you love me, you will profit by his
advice and lessons. Perhaps you owe more to him than to me. Love him,
and be grateful to him, for his constant endeavor to cultivate your
virtues and talents.
EDWARD. Love him--I cannot promise that.
MRS. L. Why not, my son?
EDWARD. Because I have given all my love to my dear mamma (_kissing
her_).
MRS. L. You darling! kiss me again! Ah, Mr. Sherwood! can you blame me
if I almost adore him?
[_Exit_ MRS. L.