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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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The Rivals
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(1775) Comedy by *Sheridan, in which a rich young man, Captain Jack Absolute, disguises himself as the impoverished Ensign Beverley because his loved one, Lydia Languish, finds the idea of a penniless suitor more romantic. Bob Acres, a friend of Jack's, also loves Lydia and challenges Beverley to a duel. When Beverley's identity is discovered, Bob Acres yields to his friend in the pursuit of Lydia; and Lydia finally forgives her loved one for being rich. The most memorable character is Lydia's aunt, Mrs Malaprop, whose wayward substitution of words ('as headstrong as an allegory on the banks of the Nile') has caused 'malapropism' to enter the language.
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