so is the reversion of his uncle's estate. I must have these too.
And then there's a treasure above all. I love his wife. Before she
knew this Beverley, I loved her; but like a cringing fool, bowed at
a distance, while He stept in and won her. Never, never will I
forgive him for it. My pride, as well as love, is wounded by this
conquest. I must have vengeance. Those hints, this morning, were
well thrown in. Already they have fastened on her. If jealousy
should weaken her affections, want may corrupt her virtue. My hate
rejoyces in the hope. These jewels may do much. He shall demand them
of her; which, when mine, shall be converted to special purposes.--What
now, Bates?
SCENE IX.
_Enter BATES._
_Bates._ Is it a wonder then to see me? The forces are in readiness,
and only wait for orders. Where's Beverley?
_Stu._ At last night's rendezvous, waiting for Me. Is Dawson with you?
_Bates._ Dressed like a nobleman; with money in his pocket, and a
set of dice that shall deceive the devil.
_Stu._ That fellow has a head to undo a nation. But for the rest,
they are such low-mannered, ill-looking dogs, I wonder Beverley has
not suspected them.
_Bates._ No matter for manners and looks: do You supply them with
money, and they are gentlemen by profession. The passion of gaming
casts such a mist before the eyes, that the nobleman shall be
surrounded with sharpers, and imagine himself in the best company.
_Stu._ There's that Williams too: it was He, I suppose, that called
at Beverley's with the note this morning. What directions did you
give him?
_Bates._ To knock loud, and be clamorous. Did not you see him?
_Stu._ No. The fool sneaked off with Jarvis. Had he appeared
within-doors, as directed, the note had been discharged. I waited
there on purpose. I want the women to think well of me; for Lewson's
grown suspicious; he told me so himself.
_Bates._ What answer did you make him?
_Stu._ A short one. That I would see him soon, for farther
explanation.
_Bates._ We must take care of him. But what have we to do with
Beverley? Dawson and the rest are wondering at you.
_Stu._ Why let them wonder. I have designs above Their narrow reach.
They see me lend him money; and they stare at me. But they are
fools. I want him to believe me beggared by him.
_Bates._ And what then?
_Stu._ Ay, there's the question; but no matter. At night you may
know more. He waits for me at Wilson's. I told the women where to
find him.
_Bates._ To what purpose?
_Stu._ To save suspicion. It looked friendly; and they thanked me.
Old Jarvis was dispatched to him.
_Bates._ And may intreat him home.
_Stu._ No; he experts money from me: but I'll have none. His wife's
jewels must go. Women are easy creatures, and refuse nothing where
they love. Follow me to Wilson's; but besure he sees you not. You
are a man of character, you know; of prudence and discretion. Wait
for me in an outer room; I shall have business for you presently.
Come, Sir.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account