Chapter 14

Enter CYPRIAN, MOSCON, and CLARIN.

CYPRIAN. Gentlemen, I pray you let me Interpose in this your quarrel, Since by accident I am present.

FLORUS. You cannot oblige me more Than by letting the fight be ended.

CYPRIAN. Florus?

FLORUS. Yes, for sword in hand, I my name deny not ever To who asks.

CYPRIAN. I'm at your side, Death to him who would offend you.

LELIUS. You produce in me less fear, Both of you thus joined together, Than did he alone.

CYPRIAN. What! Lelius?

LELIUS. Yes.

CYPRIAN. I am prevented [To Florus. Now from standing at your side, Since between you I present me. How is this? In one day twice Have I your disputes to settle!--

LELIUS. Then this time will be the last, For we've settled them already; Since in knowing who is he Who Justina's heart possesses, Now no more my hope remaineth, Even the thought of it hath left me. If you have not to Justina Spoken yet, do not address her; This I ask you in the name Of my wrongs and my resentments, Having seen her secret favours Florus' happier fate deserveth. From this balcony I saw him, From my lost delight descending; And my heart is not so base As to meanly love, in presence Of such jealousies so well proved, Of disillusions, ah! so certain. [Exit.

FLORUS. Stay.

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