D. I am more dutiful, I hope, than witty; or I should be a fool as well
as a saucebox.
M. Let me be judge of both--Parents are only to live for their
children, let them deserve it or not. That's their dutiful notion!
D. Heaven forbid that I should wish, if there be two interests between
my mother and me, that my mother postpone her own for mine!--or give up
any thing that would add to the real comforts of her life to oblige me!--
Tell me, my dear Mamma, if you think the closing with this proposal will?
M. I say, that ten thousand pounds is such an acquisition to one's
family, that the offer of it deserves a civil return.
D. Not the offer, Madam: the chance only!--if indeed you have a view to
an increase of family, the money may provide--
M. You can't keep within tolerable bounds!--That saucy fleer I cannot
away with--
D. Dearest, dearest Madam, forgive me; but old soul ran in my head
again!--Nay, indeed, and upon my word, I will not be robbed of that
charming smile! And again I kissed her hand.
M. Away, bold creature! Nothing can be so provoking as to be made to
smile when one would choose, and ought, to be angry.
D. But, dear Madam, if it be to be, I presume you won't think of it
before next winter.