The Double-Dealer: A Comedy

MASKWELL, SAYGRACE.

SAYGRACE [_looking out_.] Sweet sir, I will but pen the last line of an acrostic, and be with you in the twinkling of an ejaculation, in the pronouncing of an Amen, or before you can--

Mask. Nay, good Mr. Saygrace, do not prolong the time by describing to me the shortness of your stay; rather if you please, defer the finishing of your wit, and let us talk about our business; it shall be tithes in your way.

Saygrace. [_Enters_.] You shall prevail: I would break off in the middle of a sermon to do you a pleasure.

Mask. You could not do me a greater,--except the business in hand. Have you provided a habit for Mellefont?

Saygrace. I have; they are ready in my chamber, together with a clean starched band and cuffs.

Mask. Good, let them be carried to him; have you stitched the gown sleeve, that he may be puzzled, and waste time in putting it on?

Saygrace. I have: the gown will not be indued without perplexity.

Mask. Meet me in half-an-hour, here in your own chamber. When Cynthia comes, let there be no light, and do not speak, that she may not distinguish you from Mellefont. I'll urge haste to excuse your silence.

Saygrace. You have no more commands?

Mask. None: your text is short.

Saygrace. But pithy: and I will handle it with discretion.

Mask. It will be the first you have so served.