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tunes of unwary girls, whilst they have had nothing to give in return but indifference or contempt. Nay, I have heard of men so base as to take advantage of the weakness of a poor girl's intellects to accomplish the ungenerous purpose. But it is impossible to ascribe any but disinterested motives to you, Mr. Worshipton, as Miss Clodpate has but a very small fortune.

WORSHIPTON (starting).

What do you mean, madam? the only child of your brother, Sir Rowland: you call'd her so yourself.

LADY GOODBODY.

I told you she was the only child of my brother by his wife Sophia Elmot; but disagreeable circumstances sometimes take place in the best families, which it goes against one's feelings to repeat; and there was no necessity for my telling you, in indifferent conversation, that he has married his own cook maid a year and a half ago, by whom he has two stout healthy boys.

(Worshipton stands like one petrified for some time, but perceiving a smile upon Miss Martin's face, takes courage.)

WORSHIPTON.

Come, come! this joke won't pass upon me: I'm not so easily played upon.