my mother could but once be induced to suppose that this
rumour is correct, we might obtain her unwilling consent.

_Adm._ The report I believe to be wholly without foundation, and so I
would, even if it were given against us in a court of justice.

_Capt. Eth._ My opinion coincides with yours. But my happiness is at
stake, and I, therefore, shall not pause at a trifling deception, which
may be productive of so much good. Will you assist me?

_Adm._ Why, Edward, can't you manage without me?

_Capt. Eth._ Not very well. Let me entreat you. I hear my mother coming.

_Adm._ Well, well--she is always asserting I deceive her when I
don't--for once, I'll not be accused without a cause.

_Enter Lady Etheridge; they pretend not to see her._

_Capt. Eth._ (_Aside._) Now, sir. (_Aloud._) The proofs are, indeed, too
strong, my dear sir, to hope for any other issue, and I regret that we
have all been so long and so cruelly deceived.

_Adm._ Well, Edward, I can only say, if you are not really my son, you
will always be considered as such; for, whether your name be Etheridge
or Bargrove, you must still look upon me as your father.

_Capt. Eth._ I thank you, sir; but there are circumstances over which
you have no control. The title and estate must descend to the lawful
heir; and that silly fellow, Peter, will in future claim the affections
of yourself, and of my dear Lady Etheridge. It is on her account, more
than my own, that I feel so much distressed.

_Lady Eth._ (_coming forward_). What is this that I hear? Is there then
any foundation for that vile report? that hideous tale that turned the
brain of that silly wretch? (_The Admiral shakes his head in mournful
silence._) Edward, will you not answer me?

_Capt. Eth._ I'm afraid that my answer will be most unsatisfactory.
Madam, I had my doubts: indeed, I spurned the idea, until I called upon
Lucy Etheridge--I believe I must call her now--and the proofs which she
can bring forward.

_Lady Eth._ The hussy!

_Capt. Eth._ Nay, my lady, I must do justice to her. She is more
inclined to conceal the facts than to disclose them. Her regard for my
father, her profound respect for you, and a certain feeling of good-will
towards me----

_Lady Eth._ Well, I am glad to see a little good sense in the girl;
indeed, if the Admiral had not spoilt her----

_Adm._ Lady Etheridge, I have always felt towards that girl as my own
daughter. It's very odd. Do you think, Edward, that this m