Bohun comes in, taking off his false nose and throwing it on the table
in passing as he comes between Gloria and Valentine.)
VALENTINE. The point is, Mr. Bohun---
McCOMAS (interrupting from the hearthrug). Excuse me, sir: the point
must be put to him by a solicitor. The question is one of an engagement
between these two young people. The lady has some property, and
(looking at Crampton) will probably have a good deal more.
CRAMPTON. Possibly. I hope so.
VALENTINE. And the gentleman hasn't a rap.
BOHUN (nailing Valentine to the point instantly). Then insist on a
settlement. That shocks your delicacy: most sensible precautions do.
But you ask my advice; and I give it to you. Have a settlement.
GLORIA (proudly). He shall have a settlement.
VALENTINE. My good sir, I don't want advice for myself. Give h e r
some advice.
BOHUN. She won't take it. When you're married, she won't take yours
either--- (turning suddenly on Gloria) oh, no, you won't: you think you
will; but you won't. He'll set to work and earn his living--- (turning
suddenly to Valentine) oh, yes, you will: you think you won't; but you
will. She'll make you.
CRAMPTON (only half persuaded). Then, Mr. Bohun, you don't think
this match an unwise one?
BOHUN. Yes, I do: all matches are unwise. It's unwise to be born;
it's unwise to be married; it's unwise to live; and it's unwise to die.
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