(Enter Steward, Countess, Lucy.)
Countess
Love doesn't hide itself, sir, and you have accosted me in a manner
that convinces me you have a great deal for Arabella.
Bramble
Not at all, Madame, but with respect--
Countess
I have only one word to say to you about the matter. If you don't want
me to marry off Arabella, and to keep her to console you in your
grief, and then later marry her--then you must do something for your
nephew. You know how highly I think of Desmond. I have spoken to you a
hundred times for him--uselessly. And I am going to take this
opportunity--the solicitor is downstairs--I am going to marry
Arabella, before your very eyes, if you don't transfer some of your
wealth to Desmond.
Bramble
I am a reasonable man.
Countess
We'll go see. But, come to my apartment to agree on the contract.
Follow us, Arabella. Your presence will facilitate this little
accommodation.
(Exit Bramble, Countess, Arabella, and Tuneless. After a moment, enter
Desmond and Lucy.)
Desmond
Well, Lucy?
Lucy
They are about to tax your uncle. What have you done to hasten the
liberality of our widow?
Desmond
I pressed her in a lively way. But she was pressing me in a lively
way, also.
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