be, who loves sincerely!

_Lewis._ Why so?

_Augusta._ Who loves only one, and, if deceived, can never love
another?

_Lewis._ Why, indeed, true love holds for ever, and is not dependant
upon circumstances. A man may be obliged to marry against his
inclination, to make his fortune: but this is a cold prudential
bargain, with which love has nothing to do. True love is ever the same;
and----But what is the matter with you?

_Augusta_ [with difficulty holding herself upright]. Nothing of
consequence.

_Lewis._ But----

_Augusta._ You put me in mind of one of my friends. She was deceived
so, and now----

_Lewis._ Well?

_Augusta._ She is unhappy for ever. [Exit Augusta.

_Lewis._ Bless me! how deeply in love! Such tenderness I have never
before met with. When I remember my other coquette sweetheart, I have
almost a mind to run after her----but liberty, dear liberty--no, I dare
not.

Enter DRAVE.

_Mr. D._ Good morning, Lewis; I did not expect to meet you, we are so
seldom favoured with your visits.

_Lewis._ I am afraid of interfering with more important concerns.

_Mr. D._ I am indeed much concerned for you.

_Lewis_ [with politeness]. You have always been so attentive to my
interest, I am entirely convinced.

_Mr. D._ You are not convinced.

_Lewis._ Upon my honour.

_Mr. D._ Why this forced politeness? I do not wish it. You cannot judge
of my actions, or their motives; but I am still your friend. The common
frailties of youth I can overlook; but dissimulation, it is true, I
cannot bear.

_Lewis._ You cannot surely accuse me of that.

_Mr. D._ Give me proofs, and I will thank you.

_Lewis._ How can I, being entirely misunderstood?

_Mr. D._ Convince me of your sincere attachment to my house.

_Lewis._ I protest----

_Mr. D._ No protestations! proofs! Besides shall enquire more deeply
to-day, and would fain believe you if possible.

_Lewis._ You may securely.

_Mr. D._ Your way of life is not the best. It is time to think of
entering on some more settled plan.

_Lewis._ I am glad you mention it; it was for this very purpose I came
here. I am determined to seek for a fixed employment.

_Mr. D._ You give me pleasure; with your talents you cannot fail of
success.

_Lewis._ I flatter myself the more, as for a long while----

_Mr. D._ What!

_Lewis._ I will unfold my heart. Be not severe, or you will drive me to
despair.

_Mr. D._ [kindly]. Well; speak.