Absolute (Sir Anthony), a testy, but warm-hearted old gentleman, who imagines that he possesses a most angelic temper; and when he quarrels with his son, the captain, fancies it is the son who is out of temper, and not himself. Smollett's "Matthew Bramble" evidently suggested this character. William Dowton (1764-1851) was the best actor of this part.

Captain Absolute, son of sir Anthony, in love with Lydia Languish, the heiress, to whom he is known only as ensign Beverley. Bob Acres, his neighbour, is his rival, and sends a challenge to the unknown ensign; but when he find that ensign Beverley is captain Absolute, he declines to fight, and resigns all further claim to the lady's hand.--Sheridan: The Rivals (1775).

When you saw Jack Palmers in "Captain Absolute," you thought you could trace his promotion to some lady of quality who fancied the handsome fellow in his top-knot, and had bought him a commission.-Charles Lamb.

Absolute, Captain. A Character in Sheridan's comedy of "The Rivals;" distinguised for his gallant, determined spirt, adroit address, and dry humor.

The author will do well to profit by Captain Absolute's advice to his servant, and never tell him more lies than are indispensably necessary.
--Sir W. Scott.

Absolute, Sir Anthony. A character in Sheridan's comedy of "The Rivals;" represented as testy, positive, impatient, and overbearing, but yet of a warm and generous disposition.

"Sir Anthony is an evident copy after Smollett's kind-hearted, high-spirited Matthew Bramble."
--Hazlitt.
I will no longer avail myself of such weak ministers as you:--I will discard you:--I will unbeget you, as Sir Anthony Absolute says.
--Sir W. Scott.

Absolute, Captain: a suitor for the hand of Lydia Languish under the name of Ensign Beverley.
Sir Anthony Absolute: a warm-heared old gentleman of irascible temper. The father of Captain Absolute.
--Sheridan, Rivals.