Ag. You have distressed me, yet I thank you for it, I have been too presumptuous, I have ventured farther than I ought. Since it is so, I will not shrink from the trial. (Pauses.) Dont you think he will go through it honourably?
With. (Shaking his head.) Indeed I know not—I hope he will.
Ag. You hope? I thank you for that word, my dear sir! I hope he will too. (She remains thoughtful: he takes a turn or two cross the stage.)
With. (Clapping her shoulder affectionately.) What are you thinking of, niece?
Ag. How to set about this business.
With. And how will you do it?
Ag. I will write a letter to Lady Fade, asking pardon for having told some malicious falsehoods of her, to a relation of whom she is dependant upon, and begging she will make up the matter, and forgive me; promising at the same time, most humbly, if she will not expose me for this time, never to offend so any more. Next time he comes I will make him direct the letter himself, that when it falls into his hands again, he may have no doubt of its authenticity. Will this do?
With. Yes, very well. If he loves you after this, his love is not worth the having.
Ag. Ah, uncle! you are very hard hearted! But you are very right: I know you are very right. Pray does not Royston lodge in the same house with Harwood?
With. He does.
