Prince. Porcia, to prove to you how unfounded that suspicion is, I have these many days wholly quitted Naples, and, out of a melancholy that has taken hold of me, now live retired in a little Villa hard by this: you may imagine at least one reason for my doing so. And so enchanted am I with my solitude, that till this evening (when you broke it as I could wish) I have not once stirred abroad; my only occupation being to watch some pictures that I am having done, by the best masters of Italy and of Spain too; one of which country I have happened on, who might compete with Apelles. As I told you, I have spent whole days in watching them at work.
Por. My jealousy whispered—
Enter Belardo.
Bel. Unlucky to be sure.
Por. What now?
Bel. What can make your brother return so suddenly?
Por. My brother!
Bel. He is now at the gate.
Por. He must suspect the Prince! O, my lord, hide yourself.