with the declaration I then made of acquainting my husband
with your conduct, would have deterred you from ever making
any further attempt.--How fatal might the consequences prove
should I discover your behaviour to him? Is this your
friendship? Know, base man! that whatever my follies and
indiscretions may be in other respects, there is not any
distress shall lead me to an act against the honour of
Elizabeth Andrews."

Am I awake! or is this all a dream?
My friend--seduce my wife? it cannot be! [Looks again on the letter.]
It surely is her hand--it must be so.
She's now but in her prime, and few so beautiful--
Then his strict charge this morning, not to mention
What he himself had told me was reported
Of her and the lord Belmour, with this letter,
Are proofs which make this matter nearly certain.
What ruin is at hand!------ [He pauses.]

Enter MARIA hastily.

Woman, your business?

MARIA. My lady, sir, is up, and begs to see you;
Or she will wait on you.

ANDREWS. I choose the latter. [She goes off.]
How wond'rous condescending of a sudden!
Shou'd this be a true charge in this dread letter,
All he has mentioned of her and lord Belmour,