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.