Being very anxious for the situation of poor Melanthe, I fully design'd to make another visit to Murcio's house early the next morning; but I had no sooner got my Tablets clear'd of the impression made on them the preceding day, than some company coming in detain'd me at home till the hour in which I usually dined, and then being told the table was spread, I sat down; but made a very short repast, being always more eager to gratify the cravings of my mind than my sensual appetite.

I came to Murcio's door when Conrade had just alighted from his coach and was stepping in, so I had an easy access, and follow'd him up into the dining-room, where Murcio was then sitting, and express'd the satisfaction he took in seeing him in words to this effect:

Murcio. My dear friend, I am glad you are come to give me your opinion in a thing I am about to do: – my ungracious daughter has given me no answer, – made me no submissions; – I cannot suffer her in my house; and, if I turn her out of it, am in danger of having my whole family scandalized by her behaviour; – I am therefore resolved to send her down to the farthest part of Cornwall, where I have a near kinsman; – I was going to write to him on that occasion when I heard you were here.

Conrade. I flatter myself, sir, that the intelligence I bring will save you that trouble, and the young lady so long a journey: – I have discover'd her favourite lover.

Murcio. Is it possible! – for heaven's sake who, – what is he!

Conrade. One you little suspect, tho’ I have seen him often here; – tis Dorimon.

Murcio. Dorimon! – yes, since his return from his travels he visits here sometimes; – his sister, Florimel, and Melanthe were brought up together at the boarding-school, and since they left it have scarce been two days asunder: – but I cannot think Dorimon has been her seducer: – she is neither above his hopes nor below his expectations: – if he had any inclinations towards her, I know of nothing should hinder him from making his honourable addresses.