American Comedies (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1847 edition. Excerpt: ...You may buy me for five thousand, cash in hand. Ned. Well, as that was our offer, you shall have it. Here is the paper for you to sign. (Produces a paper.) You see, Count, I was not wrong when I said we knew you, for I drew it up some days ago, and here is a check for the amount mentioned. (Takes a check out of his vest-pocket.) Sign the one, and return it to me, and I give you the other. (The Count signs, and receives the check.) Count. Much obliged to you, gentlemen, for your liberality. Tom. I do believe we might have spared half the money. Ned. No thanks, if you please. Good evening, thou honorable sprig of pseudo-nobility. Remember, you are not to be found in town to-morrow night. Count. Trust me for that (Exeunt Ned and Tom Mathews.) A pretty fair operation --Five thousand dollars for what tomorrow wouldn't fetch me fourpence Le Grand Diable, say what they will of him, certainly helps on his own, once in a while. And why might I not make a speculation out of the other lady? If I could but see her to-night, and persuade her to run off with me in the morning, I should be made. I might then swinge her family finely to purchase my absence. What shall be my plea? Hum--political news of the greatest consequence demands my instant embarkation for Italy--can't leave America, though, while Miss Eleanor is left a prey to every straggling, needy adventurer that comes along. A little agony, ranting, tears, and other dressing thrown in once in a while, by way of sauce, and she's mine. A capital plan Per Bacco, I'll try it. I lose nothing if I fail, and if I succeed, I earn a pension for life. I'll test the scheme forthwith. (Exit Count Stromboli.) SCENE VII.--STREET.--WILLETT AND HARRY BARN-WELL WALKING ARM IN ARM.--MORNING. Harrv. Look yonder, ...