DEDICATION. TO HER, whose approbation of this Drama, and whose peculiar delight in the applause it has received from the public, have been to me the highest gratification derived from its success—I dedicate this Play. RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN. 295 PROLOGUE. WRITTEN BY RICHARD BRINSLEY SHERIDAN. Spoken by Mr. King. CHILL'D by rude gales, while yet reluctant May As some fond maid, whom matron frowns reprove, Careless he seems, yet, vigilantly sly, Woos the stray glance of ladies passing by, With gen'rous questions that no answer wait, How vastly full! A'n't you come vastly late? 'I'n't it quite charming? When do you leave town? 'A'n't you quite tired? Pray, can we set you down?" These suburb pleasures of a London May, Imperfect yet, we hail the cold delay; Should our Play please and you 're indulgent everplease—and Be your decree-"Tis better late than never."' |