We then consulted about the masquerade; and he brought me down his dress for it. The Montero cap and tarnished regimentals (which he procured at the theatre) are admirable.
Soon after his departure, a letter was brought to me by the maid; who said, that a tall man, wrapped in a dark cloak, put it into her hand, and then fled with great swiftness.
Conceive my sensations on reading this note, written in an antiquated hand.
To Lady Cherubina de Willoughby.
These, greeting.
Most fayre Ladie
An aunciente and loyall Vassall that erewhyles appertained unto yre ryhgte noble Auncestrie, in ye qualitie of Seneschal, hath, by chaunce, discovred yer place of hiding, and doth crave ye boon that you will not fayle to goe unto ye Masquerade at ye Pantheon; where, anon he will joyn you, and unravell divers mysterys touching your pedigree.
Lette nonne disswaid you from to goe, and eke lette nonne, save a Matron, goe with you; els I dare not holde parle with you.
Myne honoured Ladie, if you heede not this counsell, you will work yourselfe woefull ruth.
Judge if I can sleep a wink after such a mysterious communication. Excellent old man! I mean to make him my steward.