Page:Dramas 1.pdf/149

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THE ALIENATED MANOR: A COMEDY.

141

MRS. CHARVILLE (after making a formal courtesy to Crafton, and then turning to Freemantle.

And must I do my ceremonies to you too? (Makes a very affected stiff courtesy, and then holding out her hand to him with great vivacity.) My old friend and playfellow, I am delighted to see you. So unexpected! Do you belong to these parts?

FREEMANTLE.

No; but my good fortune makes me a temporary resident at present.

MRS. CHARVILLE.

It is good fortune to us all. Is it not Charles? He is brother to my friend Charlotte. (Charville bows gravely.) And how does dear Charlotte? is she near us too?

FREEMANTLE.

No; she is in Shropshire.

CRAFTON.

I could not prevail upon my niece to come to me at this time.

MRS. CHARVILLE.

O but she will come, when she knows that I am here: do write to her: it is so long since we met. Do tell me about her, Sir Robert; I have many things to ask. (Drawing him aside.)