Hastings
Ah, sir, hopefully this unexpected meeting will show you how glad I am
you are here.
Captain
And you, too, sir, witness a parallel joy and respect in your intended
son-in-law.
Hastings
Your figure, your air, your wit--enchant me. My heart would be
completely happy if your late uncle, whom I met with often to conclude
this marriage, was still alive.
Captain
Ah, sir, don't recall his death. An uncle that I loved with a tender
regard. This boy can tell you of my excessive sorrow, and how, at his
death, I was awash in tears.
Spruce
How Heaven made his soul miserable! But to speak of him is to touch a
very tender nerve and might-- But he was very old.
Hastings
Not so very old, same age with me, about fifty.
Spruce
The word old can be understood in many ways. I speak of old with
respect to his health. He was always complaining of some infirmity.
Hastings
Not at all. He was never attacked by a malady in his entire life until
the horrible accident which caused his death.
Captain
He had an iron constitution.
Spruce (aside to Captain)
Now, you're right.
Captain (aside to Spruce)
Shut up, then.
Hastings
This conversation will awaken your grief. Let's talk of something more
lively and gay. You are going to see my daughter, and I flatter myself
you will be very content with her looks and her vivacity.
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