SHORT. You know, Louisa, I am not fond of equestrian exercise. I never
even go to Astley's--but since you have been at the trouble of
dressing yourself, why I suppose I mustn't disappoint Mrs. Sweet and
her husband.
MRS. SHORT. (_pleased_) Thank you, Harry, that's kind.
SWEET. (_aside_) There's five pounds in my pocket.
SHORT. (_ill-humouredly_) At the same time, of course, it will be very
dull and uncomfortable for me to be left all alone here while you are
out pleasuring--just like you wives, you always think of yourselves
first. (_with increasing ill humour_) But who the deuce was it put the
idea into your head?
SWEET. Why, _I_ did, I believe: but to confess the truth, I should
never have dreamt of the thing if it hadn't been for Mr.----
MRS. SHORT. (_alarmed, and checking SWEET_) No, no! Never mind--it's
of no consequence--don't let us talk any more about it! (_she begins
to pull off her gloves_)