wood; yet many a man has not advanced the less rapidly in his profession, for having a portionless wife to begin the world with. It is a spur to industry.
Har. (Looking pleased at him.) Such sentiments are what I expected from Colonel Hardy; and, were it not for female failings, there would be little risk in following them.—I dont know how to express it—I am perhaps too delicate in these matters—We ought not to expect a faultless woman.
Col. No, surely; and, if such a woman were to be found, she would be no fit companion for us.
Har. (Getting up, and pressing the Colonel's hand between his.) My dearest friend! your liberality and candour delight me!—I do, indeed, believe that many a man has lived very happily with a woman far from being faultless; and, after all, where is the great injury he sustains, if she should be a little violent and unreasonable?
Col. (Starting up from his seat.) Nay, heaven defend us from a violent woman; for that is the devil himself!—(Seeing Harwood's countenance change)—What is the matter with you, Harwood? She is not ill temper'd, I hope?
Har. (Hesitating.) Not—not absolutely so—She is of a very quick and lively disposition, and is apt to be too hasty and unguarded in her emotions.—I do not, perhaps, make myself completely understood.
Col. O! I understand you perfectly,—I have
