University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

The chamber of Richard Osborne. Enter to him Harry Matthews.
Matthews.
Where's Warren?

Osborne.
I've not seen him.

Matthews.
Not since when?

Osborne.
Noon yesterday.

Matthews.
Indeed. 'Twas then we parted.
He promised to meet with me last night at Baylor's.

Osborne.
And came not?

Matthews.
No. 'Twas probable his business—
For you must know his hands are full at present—
Was quite too grateful and too full of profit,
To make him leave it soon. I marvell'd not
That he should fail us then; but now, this morning,
When, by agreement, he should breakfast with us—
And here's the hour—that he should still be absent,
Seems something strange. He must be at the meeting,
Or we are done forever.

Osborne.
What's the meeting?

Matthews.
One of both parties, meant for caucussing,
Popular wholly in its character,
Whose temper will determine our Assembly
As to its choice of Senator in Congress.

Osborne.
Ay,—indeed.

Matthews.
You'll be there?

Osborne.
Yes; I promised him.

Matthews.
Who? Warren?

Osborne.
Yes.

Matthews.
I must go look for him.
We must not risk our fortunes by delay.
His voice may help to make our Senator.
[Exit Matt.

Osborne.
Would he were dumb or I! Alas! these murmurs,
How feeble—since the fetters are about me,
And but one way remains—to curse and perish.

[Exit.