University of Virginia Library

Scæna prima.

Enter Anselm. Angelica.
Ansel.
At length, since Heav'n propitious to my prayer
Doth not oppose the vowes of Montenor,
But seems to have a care that they be crown'd,
I may give up my selfe to th'sweets of Hope,
If without crime, and a too great presumption,
A Sheepherd may pretend to love a Nymph.

Angel.
'Tis very quaintly pleaded to engage Me,
To praise the Sheepherd and reject the Nymph,
But let this satisfie your pressing Heart,
That now my brother takes your interest;
And as love once did flatter you, so his
Consent's sufficient to confirme your wishes.

Ansel.
How this reply affronts a lovers will!
And if you limit there his best advantage,
How ill when he explain'd his vowes he told you?
How scrupulous love is in his designes;
He look's with scorne on fairest victories,
When they may cast a shaddow on his glory,
By his owne merit hee'd be absolute,
He loves no Triumph by anothers will,
Nor can indure, what ever's the attempt,
That forraigne succours should secure his conquest.

Angel.
Tis so, a Lover's never satisfied,
He doubts his happinesse when he enjoys it.
And his unquiet name, resolv'd to feare,
In the most faire successe will still complaine.

Ansel.
Oh—refuse not, to this enflamed heart,
The sweet, to see it selfe entirely charm'd,
And if it move your soule, when it doth sigh,
Deny me not the bliss to understand it;
'Tis not enough that Montenor's content
Assures me of like happinesse with that
Must make him perfect to fulfill my joy,
'Tis needfull you unfold your heart with me.
That loving passions may your thoughts detect,
That a kind qualme may answer to my sighs,
And that by your consent my flame confirm'd,
May be the glorious prize of loving you.