Chapter 34

AURELIAN _and_ CAMILLO.

_Aur._ I'll proceed no farther, if Benito goes: I know his folly will produce some mischief.

_Cam._ But Violetta desired me, in her note, to bring him, on purpose to pass the time with her woman, Beatrix.

_Aur._ That objection's easily removed: I'll supply Benito's place; the darkness will prevent discovery; and, for my discourse, I'll imitate the half wit and patched breeding of a _valet de chambre._

_Cam._ But how shall we get rid of him?

_Aur._ Let me alone for that.

_Enter_ BENITO.

_Ben._ Come, are we ready, gallants? The clock's upon the stroke of eight.

_Aur._ But we have altered our resolution; we go another way to-night.

_Ben._ I hope you have not broke my assignation?

_Aur._ Why do you hope so?

_Ben._ Because my reputation is engaged in't: I've stipulated, upon mine honour, that you shall come.

_Aur._ I shall beat you, if you follow me. Go, sirrah, and adjourn to the great looking-glass, and let me hear no more from you till to-morrow morning.

_Ben._ Sir, my fidelity, and, if I may be so vain, my discretion, may stand you in some stead.

_Aur._ Well, come along then; they are brave fellows, who have challenged us; you shall have fighting enough, sir.

_Ben._ How, sir, fighting?

_Aur._ You may escape with the loss of a leg, or an arm, or some such transitory limb.

_Ben._ No, sir; I have that absolute obedience to your commands, that I will bridle my courage, and stay at home. [_Exit._

_Cam._ You took the only way to be rid of him. There's the wall; behind yon pane of it we'll set up the ladder. [_Exeunt._