JOSEPH
. . . Sir Oliver is a worthy man–a very worthy man; but avarice, Mr. Stanley, is the vice of age. I tell you, my good sir, in confidence, what he has done for me has been a mere nothing–though people, I know, have thought otherwise, and for my part I never chose to contradict the report.
SIR OLIVER
What! has he never transmitted you bullion–rupees–pagodas?
JOSEPH
O, dear sir, nothing of the kind!–No, no–a few presents now and then–china, shawls, congou tea, avadavats, and Indian crackers–little more, believe me.
SIR OLIVER [aside.]
Here's gratitude for twelve thousand pounds! Avadavats and Indian crackers!
JOSEPH
Then, my dear sir, you have heard, I doubt not, of the extravagance of my brother: There are very few who would credit what I have done for that unfortunate man.
SIR OLIVER [aside.]
Not I, for one!
JOSEPH
The sums I have lent him!–Indeed I have been exceedingly to blame; it was an amiable weakness, however, I don't pretend to defend it,–and now I feel it doubly culpable since it has deprived me of the pleasure of serving you, Mr. Stanley, as my heart dictates.
SIR OLIVER [aside.]
Dissembler! . . .

This scene from Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s “The School for Scandal” showcases Joseph Surface’s hypocrisy and deceit. Joseph pretends to be modest about the gifts from his uncle, Sir Oliver, while minimizing their value to mere trifles like "china, shawls, congou tea, avadavats, and Indian crackers." This is in stark contrast to the significant monetary help he has received, revealing his ingratitude. Joseph's self-serving narrative continues as he fabricates stories of his generous financial support for his brother, further attempting to paint himself as a virtuous and self-sacrificing figure. His reference to his "amiable weakness" is an ironic twist—while he pretends to regret his supposed generosity, the audience, and Sir Oliver, see through his false humility. Joseph’s duplicity is laid bare in this exchange, highlighting Sheridan’s critique of superficial morality and the artifice prevalent in society.