Delvile, who, however, laughed it off with a very good grace, arose
with an intention to retreat, which being perceived by Sir Robert
Floyer, who had attended to this dialogue with haughty contempt, he
came forward, and said, "now then, madam, may I have the honour of
your hand?"

"No, Sir," answered Cecilia, "I am engaged."

"Engaged again?" cried he, with the air of a man who thought himself
much injured.

"Glad of it, glad of it!" said Mr Briggs; "served very right! have
nothing to say to him, my chick!"

"Why not, Sir?" cried Sir Robert, with an imperious look.

"Sha'n't have her, sha'n't have her! can tell you that; won't consent;
know you of old." "And what do you know of me, pray Sir?"

"No good, no good; nothing to say to you; found fault with my nose!
ha'n't forgot it."

At this moment Mr Marriot came to claim his partner, who, very willing
to quit this scene of wrangling and vulgarity, immediately attended
him. Miss Larolles, again flying up to her, said "O my dear, we are
all expiring to know who that creature is! I never saw such a horrid
fright in my life!"

Cecilia was beginning to satisfy her, but some more young ladies
coming up to join in the request, she endeavoured to pass on; "O but,"