_Lew._ Beverley! Well met. I have been busy in your affairs.

_Bev._ So I have heard, Sir; and now must thank you for't.

_Lew._ To-morrow I may deserve your thanks. Late as it is, I go to
Bates. Discoveries are making that an arch villain trembles
at.

_Bev._ Discoveries are made, Sir, that You shall tremble at. Where
is this boasted spirit? this high demeanour, that was to call me to
account? You say I have wronged my sister--Now say as much. But
first be ready for defence, as I am for resentment.
[_Draws._

_Lew._ What mean you? I understand you not.

_Bev._ The coward's stale acquittance. Who, when he spreads foul
calumny abroad, and dreads just vengeance on him, cries out, what
mean you, I understand you not.

_Lew._ Coward, and calumny! Whence are these words? But I forgive,
and pity you.

_Bev._ Your pity had been kinder to my fame. But you have traduced
it; told a vile story to the public ear, that I have wronged my
sister.

_Lew._ 'Tis false. Shew me the man that dares accuse me.

_Bev._ I thought you brave, and of a soul superior to low malice;