Anna Cora Mowatt

“ Tiffany surrounds you; the tempests, which her temper raises! Gertrude
They never harm me. Flowers and herbs are excellent tutors. I learn prudence from the reed, and bend until the storm has swept over me! Colonel Howard
Admirable philosophy! But still this frigid atmosphere of fashion must be uncongenial to you? Accustomed to the pleasant companionship of your kind friends in Geneva, surely you must regret this cold exchange? Gertrude
Do you think so? Can you suppose that I could possibly prefer a ramble in the woods to a promenade in Broadway? ”

“ Very beautifully arranged--does you great credit, madam! Here I encountered this young person. She was inclined to be talkative; and I indulged her with--with a--aw--demme--a few common places! What passed between us was mere harmless badinage--on my part. You, madam, you--so conversant with our European manners--you are aware that when a man of fashion--that is, when a woman--a man is bound--amongst noblemen, you know-- Mrs. Tiffany
I comprehend you perfectly--parfittement, my dear Count. ”

“ Tiffany shall be informed of your resolution? Mr. Tiffany
Yes. Snobson
Enough said! That's the ticket! The credit of the concern's safe, Sir! (returns to his seat.)
Mr. Tiffany
How low have I bowed to this insolent rascal! To rise himself he mounts upon my shoulders, and unless I can shake him off he must crush me! (aside) (Enter Trueman, C., down on L. H.)
Adam Trueman
Here I am, Antony, man! I told you I'd pay you a visit in your money-making quarters. (looks around) But it looks as dismal here as a cell in the States' Prison! Mr. Tiffany
(forcing a laugh) Ha, ha, ha ! States' Prison! ”

“ What do you think of a puppy, who insults an innocent girl all in the way of kindness? This Count of yours--this importation of-- Count Jolimaitre
My dear Madam, demme, permit me to explain. It would be unbecoming--demme--particularly unbecoming of you--aw--aw--to pay any attention to this ignorant person. (crosses to Trueman.) Anything that he says concerning a man of my standing--aw--the truth is, Madam-- Adam Trueman
Let us have the truth by all means,--if it is only for the novelty's sake! ”

“ Bah! no man takes pleasure in remarking the superiority of another! Why the deuce can't you speak the truth, man? But it's not the fashion I suppose! I have not seen one frank, open face since--no, no, I can't say that either, though lying is catching! There's that girl, Gertrude, who is trying to teach your daughter music--but Gertrude was bred in the country! Mr. Tiffany
A good girl; my wife and daughter find her very useful. ”

“ First your fine lady of a wife sends me word that she's not at home--I walk up stairs, and she takes good care that I shall not be at home--wants to turn me out of doors. Then you come in--take your old friend by the hand--whisper, the deuce knows what, in your wife's ear, and the tables are turned in a tangent! ”

“ It may do here, but take my word for it, in the county of Catteraugus you'd get the name of a great busy-body. But perhaps you know that too? Prudence
Oh! I always know what's coming. I feel it beforehand all over me. I knew something was going to happen the day you came here--and what's more I can always tell a married man from a single--I felt right off that you were a bachelor? Adam Trueman
Felt right off I was a bachelor did you? you were sure of it--sure ?--quite sure? (Prudence assents delightedly) Then you felt wrong!--a bachelor and a widower are not the same thing! ”

“ There she is--the bewitching little creature! Mrs. Tiffany and her daughter are out of ear-shot. I caught a glimpse of their feathers floating down Broadway, not ten minutes ago. Just the opportunity I have been looking for! Now for an engagement with this captivating little piece of prudery! 'Pon honor, I am almost afraid she will not resist a Count long enough to give value to the conquest. ”

“ A piece of pleasantry--a mere joke-- Adam Trueman
A joke was it? I'll show you a joke worth two of that! I'll teach you the way we natives joke with a puppy who don't respect an honest woman! (seizing him) Count Jolimaitre
Oh! oh! demme--you old ruffian! let me go. What do you mean? Adam Trueman
Oh! a piece of pleasantry--a mere joke--very--pleasant isn't it? (Attempts to strike him again; Count struggles with him. Enter Mrs. Tiffany hastily, L 2 E., in her bonnet and shawl.)
Mrs. Tiffany
What is the matter? I am perfectly abimé with terror. Mr. Trueman, what has happened? ”