The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume III

In this lively Restoration comedy, a pretentious gentleman named Sir Timothy Tawdrey finds his future arranged by his mother and a jealous father—he is to marry Celinda, who already loves the dashing Bellmour, nephew of Lord Plotwell. When Sir Timothy makes a clumsy proposal, Bellmour boldly challenges him to a duel, only to vanish at the appointed place. The young lovers conspire in secret, aided by Celinda's loyal nurse and Bellmour's adventurous brother Friendlove, who has just returned from Italy. Meanwhile, Lord Plotwell weighs his own designs, threatening to strip Bellmour of his inheritance unless he complies.

As the wedding day approaches, the household erupts into a whirlwind of disguises, mistaken identities, and sharp wit. Friendlove sneaks into the festivities in disguise, while Sir Timothy arrives with a troupe of noisy musicians, sparking a comic brawl that draws in the bewildered guests. The stage buzzes with vengeful vows, playful banter, and a glimpse of the chaotic bagnio scene that promises even more mischief. Listeners are invited to revel in the rapid-fire repartee and the tangled web of love and ambition that drives this early act.