Flavella (icily)
I know what my duty is as an engaged woman.
McNaughten
To be sure, I think you are virtuous and prudent. But you've got an
amorous and sly look about you that doesn't augur well for me in the
future. Without being a fortune teller, I predict you are planning
some little trick to play on me in the future. True? What do you say?
Hastings
Sir, fear nothing. My daughter always behaves herself properly.
McNaughten
The sly ones always behave with great propriety.
Flavella
Heavens! Can he say this to my face? Father, let me leave. This
gentleman flatters me too much. His tender compliments allow me to
understand his sentiments only too well.
(Exit Flavella before her father can reply)
Hastings (aside)
I thought at first my son-in-law had beautiful manners.
McNaughten
Women don’t' really like sincerity very much.
Spruce
You don't flatter them.
McNaughten
By God, I am frank. Woman, mistress, friend, are all alike to me. I am
not afraid to say what I think.
Hastings
That's very proper. Everything will be fine. Please stay at my house.
McNaughten
I receive that gracious offer in the proper spirit, but--
Hastings
To let you suffer in a hotel would be an insult.
McNaughten
I beg you to let me stay at liberty a little longer.
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