MARIA. I can only say, you shall not have just Reason--'tis true,
by my Father's will I am for a short period bound to regard you
as his substitute, but I must cease to think you so when you would
compel me to be miserable.
[Exit.]

SIR PETER. Was ever man so crossed as I am[?] everything conspiring
to fret me! I had not been involved in matrimony a fortnight[,]
before her Father--a hale and hearty man, died on purpose, I believe--
for the Pleasure of plaguing me with the care of his Daughter . . .
but here comes my Helpmate!--She appears in great good humour----
how happy I should be if I could teaze her into loving me tho'
but a little----

Enter LADY TEAZLE

LADY TEAZLE. Lud! Sir Peter I hope you haven't been quarrelling with
Maria? It isn't using me well to be ill humour'd when I am not bye--!

SIR PETER. Ah! Lady Teazle you might have the Power to make me
good humour'd at all times--

LADY TEAZLE. I am sure--I wish I had--for I want you to be in a
charming sweet temper at this moment--do be good humour'd now--
and let me have two hundred Pounds will you?

SIR PETER. Two hundred Pounds! what an't I to be in a good humour
without paying for it--but speak to me thus--and Efaith there's
nothing I could refuse you. You shall have it--but seal me a bond