Part 41 (2/2)

Now observe, this letter is addressed to Sir Gilbert. It contains a statement of facts that will astonish and convince him. You must not trust it into other hands, but deliver it yourself.

_Peter._ He'll cudgel me.

_Nelly._ No, he will not. But, even if he did, would you mind a few blows for the certainty of being one day Sir Peter Etheridge?

_Peter._ No, hang me if I do. They might all cudgel me together, if they could cudgel me into the only son of a baronet of ten thousand a year.

_Nelly._ Well, then, as soon as you can, go boldly up to the Hall, and say to Sir Gilbert, ”Sir Gilbert, in justice to yourself, read this letter, and do not despise the caution, as it is all true.” You will then see the effect of it.

_Peter._ See--not feel. You are certain he won't be angry. Well, then, I will--in this case I'm in a great hurry as anybody. I can promise. So good-bye. [_Exit._

_Nelly._ Now I think all is safe; but I must quit the gang or my life will be in danger.

_Enter Old Bargrove, with Constable._

Oh, that I could recall the last twenty years! How wicked, how infamous have I become.

[_Covers her face with her hands. Old Bargrove advances and taps her on the shoulder. Nelly starts._

Mercy on me!

_Old Bar._ You must not expect much. I believe you tell fortunes, my good woman!

_Nelly._ (_curtseying._) Yes, sir, sometimes.

_Old Bar._ And steal geese and turkeys?

_Nelly._ No, sir, indeed.

_Old Bar._ Well, you help to eat them afterwards, and the receiver is just as bad as the thief. You must come along with me.

_Nelly._ Along with you, sir!

_Old Bar._ Do you see this little bit of paper? But, now I look at you, haven't we met before?

_Nelly._ Met before, sir!

_Old Bar._ Yes--hold your head up a little, either my eyes deceive me, or you--yes, I'll swear to it--you are Nelly Armstrong. Not quite so good-looking as you were when we parted. Now I understand all. Come, take her along to the Hall at once.

_Nelly._ Indeed, sir----

_Old Bar._ Not a word. Away with her, slanderous, lying, mischievous----[_Exeunt omnes._

_Scene VI._

_A Drawing-Room in the Hall._

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