LORD TOUCHWOOD, MASKWELL.
LORD TOUCH. Sure I was born to be controlled by those I should command. My very slaves will shortly give me rules how I shall govern them.
MASK. I am concerned to see your lordship discomposed.
LORD TOUCH. Have you seen my wife lately, or disobliged her?
MASK. No, my lord. What can this mean? [Aside.]
LORD TOUCH. Then Mellefont has urged somebody to incense her.
Something she has heard of you which carries her beyond the bounds of patience.
MASK. This I feared. [Aside.] Did not your lordship tell her of the honours you designed me?
LORD TOUCH. Yes.
MASK. 'Tis that; you know my lady has a high spirit; she thinks I am unworthy.
LORD TOUCH. Unworthy! 'Tis an ignorant pride in her to think so.
Honesty to me is true nobility. However, 'tis my will it shall be so, and that should be convincing to her as much as reason. By Heaven, I'll not be wife-ridden; were it possible, it should be done this night.
MASK. By Heaven, he meets my wishes! [Aside.] Few things are impossible to willing minds.
LORD TOUCH. Instruct me how this may be done, you shall see I want no inclination.
MASK. I had laid a small design for to-morrow (as love will be inventing) which I thought to communicate to your lordship. But it may be as well done to-night.
LORD TOUCH. Here's company. Come this way and tell me.
