_N._ I will confess it: that was my pursuit. _F._ True to thy beeship, thy belated beeship. _N._ Sir! _R._ I am sure our friend means no offence. The happy expressions of true genius Stick in the memory. _F._ Yes, sir, it stuck fast, 1750 The Sphinx’s tear was somewhat sticky too. Thou didst not spare us; we were put to shame. _N._ Is that a reason, sir, before this stranger To mock me? I can appreciate ridicule Prompted by envy at its proper worth. Affecting to find fault with my expressions! Good morning, gentlemen. [_Exit._ _R._ You poets treat each other vilely. _F._ Now, Richard. 1759 _R._ My scheme is this: I have written to my servants; They will receive you. Leave to-morrow night, And you will find all ready: You shall have 1761 Such a reception and fair bridal trim, And high festivities as shall dress out The hasty manner of your coming. _F._ But first, How shall I make my escape? I am watched, suspected. _R._ I can arrange that too. By my behaviour And letter to the Countess I have contrived To win her trust. First I shall praise her scheme Of sending you to Milan, and then persuade her To send you again. You must hit on a plan 1771 How to convey your lady to the carriage, And all is done. _F._ What shall I do with Tristram? _R._ Leave him to me: my purse will settle him. _F._ ’Tis excellently schemed; but if Diana Press me to tell how I obtained the letter, What can I say? _R._ She is easily put off: That question does not touch her. Any tale Will serve. _F._ Yet, Richard, what so generously You do for me must ruin you with her. 1780 Is’t possible you are cured! _R._ No, no: mistake not! I am more and more in love: and see my way By certain steps: and first to get thee married. Her love for thee is a romance, which I Can shift upon myself when thou art gone. And that she loves thee, thee the worthiest, Dearest and nearest of my earliest friends, Is no impediment. Is’t not half way To loving me? ’Tis happy for me, Frederick, Thou hast not seen her worth. _F._ And I half question 1790 Whether ’tis not my duty as friend of both To close with her and save you.