Scene IX Enter Bates
Bates. Is it a wonder then to see me? The forces are in readiness, and only wait for orders. Where’s Beverley?
Stu. At last night’s rendezvous, waiting for Me. Is Dawson with you?
Bates. Dressed like a nobleman; with money in his pocket, and a set of dice that shall deceive the devil.
Stu. That fellow has a head to undo a nation. But for the rest, they are such low-mannered, ill-looking dogs, I wonder Beverley has not suspected them.
Bates. No matter for manners and looks: do You supply them with money, and they are gentlemen by profession. The passion of gaming casts such a mist before the eyes, that the nobleman shall be surrounded with sharpers, and imagine himself in the best company.
Stu. There’s that Williams too: it was He, I suppose, that called at Beverley’s with the note this morning. What directions did you give him?
Bates. To knock loud, and be clamorous. Did not you see him?
Stu. No. The fool sneaked off with Jarvis. Had he appeared within-doors, as directed, the note had been discharged. I waited there on purpose. I want the women to think well of me; for Lewson’s grown suspicious; he told me so himself.
Bates. What answer did you make him?
Stu. A short one. That I would see him soon, for farther explanation.
Bates. We must take care of him. But what have we to do with Beverley? Dawson and the rest are wondering at you.
Stu. Why let them wonder. I have designs above Their narrow reach. They see me lend him money; and they stare at me. But they are fools. I want him to believe me beggared by him.
Bates. And what then?
Stu. Ay, there’s the question; but no matter. At night you may know more. He waits for me at Wilson’s. I told the women where to find him.
Bates. To what purpose?
Stu. To save suspicion. It looked friendly; and they thanked me. Old Jarvis was dispatched to him.
Bates. And may intreat him home.
Stu. No; he experts money from me: but I’ll have none. His wife’s jewels must go. Women are easy creatures, and refuse nothing where they love. Follow me to Wilson’s; but besure he sees you not. You are a man of character, you know; of prudence and discretion. Wait for me in an outer room; I shall have business for you presently. Come, Sir.
Let drudging fools by honesty grow great;
The shorter road to riches is deceit.
[Exeunt.