University of Virginia Library

SCENE. IV.

Draws off, discovers Erminia sitting in a dishabit to her Phillander, who falls at her feet on his knees.
Er.
My Lord the Prince, what makes your Highness here?

Phi.
Erminia, why do you ask that needless question?
'Twas Love, Love that's unsatisfied, which brought me hither.

[kneels.
Er.
Rise Sir, this posture would become me better.

Phi.
Permit me dear Erminia—to remain thus.
'Tis only by these signs I can express
What my confusion will not let me utter.
I know—not what strange power thou bear'st about thee,
But at thy sight or touch my sense forsakes me,
And that withall, I had design'd to say,
Turns to a strange disorder'd rapture in me.
—Oh Erminia—

Er.
How do you Sir?

Phi.
I am not well;
Too suddenly I pass from one extream
To this of joy, more insupportable,
But I shall reassume my health anon
And tell thee all my story,

Er.
Dear Sir, retire into this inner room,
And there repose a while.
Alass, I see disorder in your face.

Phi.
This confidence of me, is generous in thee.

[They go into the Scene which draws over.