Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/261

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THE TRYAL: A COMEDY.
259

known ladies of this lively disposition, very hasty and unguarded too in their demands upon a man's pocket as well as his patience; but she may be of a prudent and economical turn. Is it so, Harwood?

Har. (Throwing himself into a chair very much distress'd.) I do not say it is, Colonel.

Col. (Putting his hand kindly upon his shoulder.) I am sorry to distress you so much, my dear friend, yet it must be so. I see how it is with you: pardon the freedom of friendship, but indeed an expensive and violent temper'd woman is not to be thought of: he who marries such a one forfeits all peace and happiness. Pluck up some noble courage, and renounce this unfortunate connexion.

Har. (Starting up.) Renounce it, Colonel Hardy! Is it from you I receive so hard, so unfeeling a request, who have suffered so much yourself from the remembrance of an early attachment? I thought to have been pitied by you.

Col. I was early chagrined with the want of promotion, and disappointed in my schemes of ambition, which gave my countenance something of a melancholy cast, I believe, and the ladies have been kind enough to attribute it to the effects of hopeless love; but how could you be such a ninny, my dear Harwood?

Har. I am sorry, sir, we have understood one another so imperfectly.

Col. Nay, nay, my young friend, do not carry