(Just as the Countess has said this, Agnes and a troop of young Maidens, among them the Page, in girl’s cloaths, enter with nosegays for the Countess, who instantly puts the riband in her pocket, with an evident wish, by her looks and action, to preserve it.)
Countess. (Looking at the Page) What pretty maiden is this?
Agnes. A Cousin of mine, Madam, that we have invited to the Wedding.
Countess. Well, then, as we can wear but one nosegay, let us do honour to the Stranger. (Takes the Nosegay from the Page, and kisses his forehead.—(Aside to Susan) Don’t you think, Susan, she resembles amazingly—(Stops short, and looks at Susan).
Susan. Amazingly, indeed, Madam!
Page. (Aside) What a precious kiss! I feel it here. (Putting his hand on his heart.)
Enter the Count, and Antonio with a hat in his hand.
Antonio. (As he enters) Yes, yes, my Lord, I’m certain it was him. The rakish little Rascal is disguised among the Girls. I found his new hat and cockade here—hid in a basket. (The Countess and Susan surprised, look at the Page, and then at each other. The girls surround and endeavour to hide Hannibal; Antonio seeks among them). Ay, ay, here he is—here he is. (Antonio takes off his cap, and puts on his hat) There, my Lord! There’s a pretty, modest Virgin for you!
Count. Well, my Lady!