How I diverted thee with sprightly music?

Then I should love if, when I came to see thee,

I heard thy voice afar, and in thy chamber....

(Vatinius interrupts, entering noisily.)

Who’s there? (Vatinius gives a note to Nero.)

(Reads.) ‘Proculus the admiral is come from Naples

With secret tidings; he hath a lady with him!’

(To Vat.) Let him in, or his tidings, or his lady,

Whichever is most secret—or all three.

(To Poppæa, who is going.) Thou needst not go, love.