This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
A COMEDY.
203

herself. However, she is not very refined in her taste, any common-place thing will do.

AMARYLLIS.

I am infinitely flatter'd, Mr. Worshipton, that you should apply to me for a common-place thing. Since this is the style of poetry that suits you at present, I can't help thinking you might have succeeded pretty well in writing it yourself.

WORSHIPTON.

Poh, now! you don't take my meaning. I meant any little piece that has cost you little time or study, will do very well for my purpose: I should be very sorry to take one of your good ones.

AMARYLLIS.

Sir, I have bestowed some time and study upon all my pieces, and should be rather unwilling to think I had any other to offer you.

WORSHIPTON.

How perverse you are in misunderstanding me! The best poet that ever lived has a best and a worst poem, and I only make the humble request to have one of your least sublime ones. Do, my dear friend, look thro' your budget. Many of your works, I know, are master-pieces, and I have had a great desire for a long time to hear you read some of them, but was unwilling to disturb you of an evening.