SCENE V.
Julia's Apartment—the Portrait of Horatio in the
centre of the Scene—table, chairs, book, &c.
Enter Julia, followed by Rose, regretting the melancholy
reverse of her fate, in so unexpected a
separation from her destined Husband—Rose, in vain,
endeavours to console her—she throws herself
mournfully into a chair, and, ordering her attendant
to retire, takes up a book.—Mandeville enters, unperceived,
and cautiously approaches her—she starts
on perceiving him, he affects to pay homage to Horatio's
portrait, and condoles with her on his absence
—at length throws himself at her feet, declares his
passion, and, stamping with his foot, a Priest and
four armed men appear!—he seizes her—she
screams—he orders Priest, &c. to retire, and drawing
his dagger, displays the following scroll:
“Be secret, or dread the Event.”
Julia's Father rushes on—but the secret threats of
Mandeville, who assumes before him his wonted
friendly attachment, prevents her informing him of
his treachery—a trumpet is sounded without, and a
messenger enters with the following intelligence:
“Horatio is victorious, and, accompanied by his faithful Surge, will return this Night.”
Mandeville reads the first sentence with disgust, but
seems pleased with the conclusion, and accompanies
Julia and her Father off, pretending the most heartfelt
satisfaction openly; but, aside, threatening Julia
with vengeance if she betrays him.
