[Don Henrique makes at Don Octavio; Don Antonio turns on Don Octavio's side.
Don A. Who attacks Octavio must pass through me.
Don C. I must lay hold on this occasion. [Aside.
Good cousin, I conjure you to restrain
Your passion for awhile. There lies conceal'd
Some mystery in this which, once unfolded,
May reconcile this difference.
Don H. Sweetly propos'd, sir; an accommodation!
Think'st thou my anger's like a fire of straw,
Only to blaze and then expire in smoke?
Think'st thou I can forget my name and nation,
And barter for revenge, when honour bleeds?
His life must pay this insolence, or mine.
[He makes at Don Octavio again; Don Antonio interposes.
Don A. Mine must protect his, or else perish with him.
Don H. Since neither faith nor friendship can prevail,
'Tis time to try what proof you are, Antonio,
Against your own near interest. Know that the man,
Whom you protect against my just revenge,
Has seconded his insolence to me
By foul attempts upon my sister's honour,
Your Porcia's, sir. If this will not inflame you——
[Don Antonio turns from Don Octavio and beholds him with a stern countenance.
Don O. How! I attempt your sister's honour, Henrique?