Not worse his fate, who on a wreck,
That drove as winds did blow it,
Silent had left the shatter'd deck,
To find a grave below it.
Then land was cried—no more resign'd,
He glow'd with joy to hear it;
Not worse his fate, his woe, to find
The wreck must sink ere near it!
Don. Louisa. As I live, here is your friend coming with Antonio! I'll retire for a moment to surprise him. [Exit.]
Enter ISAAC and DON ANTONIO.
Don Ant. Indeed, my good friend, you must be mistaken. Clara d'Almanza in love with me, and employ you to bring me to meet her! It is impossible!
Isaac. That you shall see in an instant. Carlos, where is the lady?— [DON CARLOS points to the door.] In the next room, is she?
Don Ant. Nay, if that lady is really here, she certainly wants me to conduct her to a dear friend of mine, who has long been her lover.
Isaac. Psha! I tell you 'tis no such thing—you are the man she wants, and nobody but you. Here's ado to persuade you to take a pretty girl that's dying for you!
Don Ant. But I have no affection for this lady.
Isaac. And you have for Louisa, hey? But take my word for it, Antonio, you have no chance there—so you may as well secure the good that offers itself to you.
Don Ant. And could you reconcile it to your conscience to supplant your friend?