Blan. This letter is in your behalf, fair maid,
[Having read the letter.
There's no denying such a recommender;
But such a face as yours is needed none.
Page, tell your lady as much: and you, Silvia, [Turning.
(For so she says you are call'd) be confident
Y'are fallen into the hands of one that knows
How to be kind, more as your friend than mistress,
If your demeanour and good-nature answer
But what your looks do promise.
Elv.[8] Madam, it is the noble charity
Of those you cast upon me, not mine own,
To which I must acknowledge any advantage
I ever can pretend to, more than what
Fair Violante's meditation gives me.
Blan. She's strangely handsome, and how well
she speaks! [Aside to Francisca.
Fran. So, so, methinks: you know new-comers, madam,
Set still the best foot forward.
Blan. And know as well, that you decaying stagers
Are always jealous of new-comers, young
And handsome.
Fran. You may be as sharp upon me as you please;
I know to what t' attribute your ill-humour.
Blan. Francisca, entertain her: I'll go write
To Violante, and then rest awhile,
In hopes to ease the headache that hath seiz'd me;
That done, sweet Silvia, we shall talk at leisure. [Exit Blanca.
Fran. Sweet Silvia! kind epithets are for new faces. [Aside.