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Yea, more than one, that he may have a choice—
Who may prove both a match of love and profit;
But, hear you plainly, not to Alice Denison.

MARIAN.

Oh, you are kind and noble! but my father——

PROVOST.

Say nought for him; he'll answer for himself:

And through his maze of friendly compliments,
I'll trace at last his veritable thoughts.
(Taking her hand kindly.)
Now, having thus so plainly told my mind,
Look on me as a man to whom again
You may as freely speak.

MARIAN.

And so I will:

The happiness of one, dear to us both,
Requires that I should do it.

PROVOST (surprised).

How so? is it of Alice you would speak?

MARIAN.

Yes, but another time; for here comes Jessie.

Enter Jessie.

(To Jessie.) How is she now? I hope she is asleep.

JESSIE.

She has not slept, but lies composed and easy,

And wishes now to see you.[Exit Marian.