Drama  |  Sir George Etherege  |  Man of Mode  |  Act III

Man of Mode — Act III (Part 7 of 20)

Bel. [to Dorimant, apart]. In a word, you’ve made me hate you, which I thought you never could have done.

Dor. In obeying your commands.

Bel. ’Twas a cruel part you played! how could you act it?

Dor. Nothing is cruel to a man who could kill himself to please you; remember, five o’clock to-morrow morning.

Bel. I tremble when you name it.

Dor. Be sure you come.

Bel. I shall not.

Dor. Swear you will.

Bel. I dare not.

Dor. Swear, I say.

Bel. By my life! by all the happiness I hope for—

Dor. You will.

Bel. I will.

Dor. Kind.

Bel. I am glad I’ve sworn, I vow I think I should ha’ failed you else!

Dor. Surprisingly kind! In what temper did you leave Loveit?

Bel. Her raving was prettily over, and she began to be in a brave way of defying you and all your works. Where have you been since you went from thence?

Dor. I looked in at the play.

Bel. I have promised, and must return to her again.

Dor. Persuade her to walk in the Mall this evening.

Bel. She hates the place, and will not come.

Dor. Do all you can to prevail with her.

Bel. For what purpose?

Dor. Sir Fopling will be here anon; I’ll prepare him to set upon her there before me.

Bel. You persecute her too much; but I’ll do all you’ll ha’ me.

Dor. [aloud]. Tell her plainly, ’tis grown so dull a business I can drudge on no longer.

Emil. There are afflictions in love, Mr. Dorimant.