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LOVERS’ VOWS
27

Amelia.

And what is ſubſtituted in its ſtead?

Count.

Intrigue.

Amelia.

What a poor, uncomfortable ſubſtitute!

Count.

There are other things—Song, dance, the opera, and war.

[Since the entrance of the Count the Baron has removed to a table at a little diſtance.

Baron.

What are you talking of there?

Count.

Of war, Colonel.

Baron [riſing].

Ay, we like to talk on what we don’t underſtand.

Count. [riſing].

Therefore, to a lady, I always ſpeak of politics; and to her father, on love.

Baron.

I believe, Count, notwithſtanding your ſneer, I am ſtill as much of a proficient in that art as yourſelf.

Count.

I do not doubt it, my dear Colonel, for you are a ſoldier: and ſince the days of Alexander, whoever conquers men is certain to overcome women.

Baron.

An achievement to animate a poltroon.

Count.

And, I verily believe, gains more recruits than the king’s pay.

Baron.

Now we are on the ſubjed of arms, ſhould you

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