Faustine
You are called general, but you are nothing but a soldier.
Fregose
Indeed, and how then shall I imitate this cursed Petrarch?
Faustine If you say you love me, you will ward off from a man of genius—(Don Fregose starts)—yes, there are such—the martyrdom which his inferiors are preparing for him. Show yourself great, assist him! I know it will give you pain, but assist him; then I shall believe you love me, and you will become more illustrious, in my sight at least, by this act of generosity than by your capture of Mantua.
Fregose Here, in your presence, I feel capable of anything, but you cannot dream of the tempest which will fall upon my head, if I obey your word.
Faustine
Ah! you shrink from obeying me!
Fregose
Protect him, admire him, if you like; but do not love him!
Faustine The ship given him by the king has been held back; you can restore it to him, in a moment.
Fregose
And I will send him to give you the thanks.
Faustine
Do it! And learn how much I love you.
(Exit Don Fregose.)