University of Virginia Library

first Scene.

The Scene being the presence.
Bonardo, Cardente and Fidelio.
Bon.
Did she reveal't her selfe Cardente to you?
Or else do you conclude it from some circumstance?
In such a cause I would not have credulity
Mocke it selfe into errour.

Card.
'Twas my Lord
Her owne confession; yet before the Dutchesse
She doth pretend 'twas onely an intent
To mock my curiosity: but I feare
It is too sad a truth.

Bon.
To me most sad,
Mine age growes fast upon me; and to have
A staine throwne now upon our House, by one
So eminent in all appearancies
Of good, it makes my wishes hast to meete
The sweet peace of my grave: but yet Cardente
I am not easie to believe.

Card.
Nor I.
There may be other causes why a Lady
Of her pure constitution should be subject
To qualmes and puling.

Bon.
Is she not in love?

Card.
That may be in my Lord, and if you could
Discover who the man is.

Bon.
Would that helpe
To cleare suspition?

Card.
All would straight appeare
In its full truth; her staine, or innocence;
For thus my Lord. I know the inclinations
Of all the Gallants; which are Goats, which Eunuches:
Now if she doth love any forward youth,
One that will thrust his Knife into the meate
Before he hath said grace (you can apply it)
Tis so; if not, so.

Fid.
My Jtalian nature
Begins to breake her prison, and grow violent;
I'le force her sir to tell me.

Bon.
Vse no threats,
But mild perswasions; such as may become
The place: and urge them home before the presence
Fills with more number. Here she is.