an acceptable visiter in the family, which has made me hitherto conceal the nature of my feelings for your charming niece; but, seeing his mind become so suddenly engrossed with the blandishments of Lady Worrymore, I have thought myself at liberty to declare my secret sentiments.
COLONEL FRANKLAND.
Yes; I have had some intimation of it. (Starting from his chair, and walking lamely but rapidly across the floor.) Silly noodle!—foolish simpleton!—bewildered ninnyhammer! He had brains in his head once.
SIR JOHN.
They are gone a wool-gathering for the present, at least.
COLONEL FRANKLAND.
And will return with a knotty handful of it for their pains.—O, the senseless gudgeon!
SIR JOHN.
Senseless enough, it must be owned. I should have thought——
COLONEL FRANKLAND.
Say no more upon this foolish subject.—There is a fair field before you, Sir John: win the lass, if you can, and then I will do my part, and strive to give up my comfort as resignedly as may be.
