Chapter 19

ROSAURA, who remains at the side; ESTRELLA, and ASTOLFO.

ROSAURA [aside]. Well, thank God, my miseries Have attained their lowest level, Since by her who sees this sight Nothing worse can be expected.

ASTOLFO. Then that portrait from my breast Shall be taken, that thy perfect Beauty there may reign instead. For where bright Estrella enters Shadow cannot be, or star Where the sun; I go to fetch it.-- [Aside.] Pardon, beautiful Rosaura, This offence; the absent never, Man or woman, as this shows, Faith of plighted vows remember. [Exit.]

[ROSAURA comes forward.] ROSAURA [aside]. Not a single word I heard, Being afraid they might observe me.

ESTRELLA. Oh, Astrea!

ROSAURA. My good lady!

ESTRELLA. Nothing could have pleased me better Than your timely coming here. I have something confidential To entrust you with.

ROSAURA. You honour Far too much my humble service.

ESTRELLA. Brief as is the time, Astrea, I have known you, you already Of my heart possess the keys 'Tis for this and your own merits That I venture to entrust you With what oft I have attempted From myself to hide.

ROSAURA. Your slave!

ESTRELLA. Then concisely to express it, Know, Astolfo, my first cousin ('Tis enough that word to mention, For some things may best be said When not spoken but suggested), Soon expects to wed with me, If my fate so far relenteth, As that by one single bliss All past sorrows may be lessened. I was troubled, the first day That we met, to see suspended From his neck a lady's portrait. On the point I urged him gently, He so courteous and polite Went immediately to get it, And will bring it here. From him I should feel quite disconcerted To receive it. You here stay, And request him to present it Unto you. I say no more. You are beautiful and clever, You must know too what is love. [Exit.]

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