The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III

Friend. Prithee let him alone. [Aside.

Sir Tim. To which he answer'd--I have a good Fortune--have but my Son Ned, and this Girl, call'd Celinda, whom I will make a Fortune, sutable to yours; your honoured Mother, the Lady Tawdrey, and I, have as good as concluded the Match already. To which I (who, though I say it, am well enough bred for a Knight) answered the Civility thus--I vow to Fortune, Sir--I did not swear, but cry'd--I protest, Sir, Celinda, deserves--no, no, I lye again, 'twas merits--Ay, Celinda--merits a much better Husband than I.

Friend. You speak more Truth than you are aware of. [Aside.] Well, Sir, I'll bring you to my Sister; and if she likes you, as well as My Father does, she's yours; otherwise, I have so much Tenderness for her, as to leave her Choice free.

Sir Tim. Oh, Sir, you compliment.