_Capt. Eth._ To occupy that place in your affections which, hitherto, I have so proudly held, and must surrender with such deep regret.
_Lady Eth._ I would consent to--submit to anything, rather than that monster should dare to call me mother.
_Capt. Eth._ Yet so he will, madam, without you consent to the proposed arrangement. Lucy has always treated you with respect, and expressed the warmest gratitude for your protection; but, as for Peter, he will be more bearish and insolent than ever, again smother you with his nauseous kisses, and claim them as an offspring's right.
_Lady Eth._ I really feel quite ill again at the very idea. Save me from that, and I'll consent to anything.
_Capt. Eth._ Well, then, madam, have I your permission?
_Will._ Please, Sir Gilbert, here be Mr Bargrove, and Madam Bargrove and Miss Lucy, and the constables, and the malefactors, coming up to prove the whole truth of the consarn, to your's and my lady's satisfaction.
_Lady Eth._ I'll not see them. I must leave you.
_Capt. Eth._ Nay, madam, stay but one moment, and acquaint Lucy that you give your consent. She may not believe me.
_Enter Old Bargrove, Lucy, Constables, and Nelly._
_Old Bar._ Your servant, my lady; your servant, Sir Gilbert. I've got the whole story out at last. I have brought up Lucy, who will prove the facts. My son Peter, I have sent after, and I took the liberty to tell the servant that Miss Agnes would be necessary.
_Capt Eth._ (_leading up Lucy to Lady Etheridge_). Lady Etheridge, will you honour us so far as to give your consent? (_Lady Etheridge hesitates._) My dear madam, recollect the circumstances.
_Adm._ Come, Lady Etheridge, they have mine, and your's must not be refused.
_Peter._ Sir Gilbert, I am your's (_seeing Nelly_). Oh, you're here--then all's right, and so I don't care. (_Advancing towards Lady Etheridge._) Lady Etheridge, my dear mamma, with your permission----
_Lady Eth._ (_hastily joining the hands of Captain Etheridge and Lucy_). Yes, Lucy, I consent. [_Exit hastily._
_Capt. Eth._ Thank you, Peter, you never did me so good a turn in your life.
_Peter._ Sir Gilbert, in justice to yourself, read this, and do not despise the caution, for it is all true. (_Gives the letter._)