In all the near concernments of a person
Allied to you as I am; but, noble brother,
It were against the laws of hospitality
And civil breeding to engage a guest
(Newly arriv'd after so long a journey)
In an occasion where there may be danger.
Don A. If such be the occasion, I must then
Acquaint you freely, that I wear a sword,
Which must not be excluded from your service.
I'm sure you are too noble to employ yours
In any cause not justifi'd by honour.
Don H. Though with regret, I see, sir, I must yield
To your excess of generosity,
This only I shall say to satisfy
Your just reflections, that my resentments
Are grounded on affronts of such a nature
That, as nothing but the offender's life
Can e'er repair 'em, so, as to the forms
Of taking my revenge, they can't admit
Of the least scruple.
Don A. Honour's my standard, and 'tis true that I
Had rather fall, than blush for victory;
But you are such a judge of honour's laws,
That 'twere injurious to suspect your cause.
Allow me, sir, th' honour to lead the way.
[Exeunt Don Antonio and Don Henrique.
Don C. If Porcia be there too (as I believe)
'Twill prove, I fear, a fatal tragedy;
But should she not be there, yet 'tis too much
For such a heart as mine, through ignorance
To have betray'd a gentleman, though faulty,
Into such cruel hands. I must go with them;
But so resolv'd as, in this bloody strife,
I'll salve my honour, or I'll lose my life. [Exit.
Scene changes to Don Carlos's house. Enter Don Octavio, Diego, and Flora with a candle.
Flo. O th' unluckiness! I vow t' you, sir,
I have scarce known that door e'er lock'd before.
Don O. There's no remedy, Flora: I am now
At the mercy of my enemies.
Diego. Having broken into another's ground,
'Tis just, i' faith, you should be put i' th' pound.