Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/211

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THE TRYAL: A COMEDY.
209

that she on whom I really bestow them may have the more reason to boast.

Har. You are right, Prettyman, she who boasts of your attentions should receive them all herself, that nobody else may know how little worth they are.

Sir Loft. You are severe this morning, Mr. Harwood, but you do not altogether comprehend me, I believe. I know perhaps more of the polite world than a studious templar can be supposed to do, and I assure you, men of fashion, upon this principle, are sparing of their words too, that they may be listened to more attentively when they do speak.

Har. You are very right still, Sir Loftus, for if they spoke much, I'll be hang'd if they would get any body to listen to them at all.

Sir Loft. (haughtily.) There is another reason why men of fashion are not profuse of their words, inferior people are apt to forget themselves, and despise what is too familiar.

Har. Dont take so much pains to make me comprehend that the more fools speak the more people will despise them; I never had a clearer conviction of it in my life.

Sir Loft. (haughtily.) Good morning, sir, I see Lord Saunter in the other walk, and I must own I prefer the company of one who knows, at least, the common rules of politeness. [Exit.

Har. (alone.) What a contemptible creature it is! He would prefer the most affected ideot, who