And that's a double reason for the choice,

Since with more certainty we shall rejoice:

The venom may evaporate in fume,

And Mandrake pleasing pow'rs at once assume;

For when I spoke of death, I did not mean,

That nothing from it would the person screen;

To-morrow we the rustick lad must name;

To-night the potion given your charming dame;

I've some already with me, all prepared;

Let nothing of your project be declared: