McNaughten Someone is dreaming--either you or me! What! You would have me believe that I have already seen your daughter! When? How? Where? Hastings Right here--on this spot--a little while ago. McNaughten So, you're crazy. This will make me look like a person having hallucinations, and I don't like that at all. However that may be, I see her now. Whether it is the first or second time makes little difference for our marriage. Hastings (low) At first, I thought this man was very intelligent. McNaughten Madame, they've boasted to me, in letters, about your attractions. I'm quite content, seeing you, that all that was true. But, in some cases, temperament doesn't go together with beauty. It's up to you to cure my apprehensions on that score. I will give my verdict, after you have spoken. Flavella (aside) I don't understand him. His mind is troubled. McNaughten I love men of spirit more than any man in England. I, myself, am brilliant without study. I find that study is the perfect way to spoil one's youth--besides being no use, whatever. So, I've never stuck my nose in a book. When a gentleman knows how to ride and steer his horse, drink, sign his name,--he is as wise a gentleman as the late Cicero. Hastings Will you take a position at court or in the Army? McNaughten My mind is not made up. Court has many powerful attractions--provided the routine doesn't fatigue me. War also has its attractions. Because savants versed in astrology have assured me that I will live to be at least a hundred, necessarily I will not die on the battle field. My name will be famous throughout Europe. But still, there are so few wars these days. I really want to fulfill my destiny. If I only knew what it was. I really love to live. Spruce You are very wise. Flavella What a speech! What nonsense! Am I really listening to the man I love? McNaughten What's wrong? You appear surprised--as if I'd said something crazy. You look to me (addressing Flavella) --let's speak openly--as if you have little intention of heeding any lesson from your husband. Flavella (icily) I know what my duty is as an engaged woman. McNaughten To be sure, I think you are virtuous and prudent. But you've got an amorous and sly look about you that doesn't augur well for me in the future. Without being a fortune teller, I predict you are planning some little trick to play on me in the future. True? What do you say? Hastings Sir, fear nothing. My daughter always behaves herself properly. McNaughten The sly ones always behave with great propriety. Flavella Heavens! Can he say this to my face? Father, let me leave. This gentleman flatters me too much. His tender compliments allow me to understand his sentiments only too well. (Exit Flavella before her father can reply) Hastings (aside) I thought at first my son-in-law had beautiful manners. McNaughten Women don�t' really like sincerity very much. Spruce You don't flatter them.