ESTRELLA. Oh, I doubt not these fine speeches
Are quite true, although intended
Doubtless for that other lady,
She whose portrait was suspended
From your neck, when first, Astolfo,
At this Court here you addressed me.
This being so, 'tis she alone
Who these compliments deserveth.
Go and pay them to herself,
For like bills that are protested
In the counting-house of love,
Are those flatteries and finesses
Which to other kings and ladies
Have been previously presented.
* * * * *
SCENE XI.
ROSAURA, who remains at the side; ESTRELLA, and ASTOLFO.
ROSAURA [aside]. Well, thank God, my miseries
Have attained their lowest level,
Since by her who sees this sight
Nothing worse can be expected.
ASTOLFO. Then that portrait from my breast
Shall be taken, that thy perfect
Beauty there may reign instead.
For where bright Estrella enters
Shadow cannot be, or star
Where the sun; I go to fetch it.—
[Aside.] Pardon, beautiful Rosaura,
This offence; the absent never,
Man or woman, as this shows,
Faith of plighted vows remember.
[Exit.]
[ROSAURA comes forward.]
ROSAURA [aside]. Not a single word I heard,
Being afraid they might observe me.
ESTRELLA. Oh, Astrea!
ROSAURA. My good lady!
ESTRELLA. Nothing could have pleased me better
Than your timely coming here.
I have something confidential
To entrust you with.