Don Z. [continuing] I, scarce believing the thing possible,
Urg'd my intelligencer to do for me
That which her lady for another did,
And to admit me to her chamber where,
By being eye-witness of her lady's actions,
I might transfer my entire love to herself.
She granted my request, and late one night,
Somewhat before the gallant's usual hour,
She brought me a back-way up to[24] her chamber,
Within Elvira's. My stay had not been long,
When, having found the truth of what she'd told me,
Converting rage into appearing kindness
To my informer, and expressing it
Uncautiously, we made a sudden noise,
With which Elvira alarm'd, and coming in,
Follow'd by Don Fernando, that fell out,
Which you have heard before.
[Don Julio beckoning Don Pedro after him, passing over one corner of the stage.
Don J. By this time, I suppose, she will have made
The proposition to the full, and we
Shall come at the just time to hear his answer.
[Exeunt Don Pedro and Don Julio.
Don Z. [Continuing.] If since that hour I have ever seen
Or thought upon her, till last night's surprise,
May I for ever perish: and methinks
The use of that to your advantage
Might challenge from you a more just construction.
Blan. I told you at first, I came not here to argue,
But to conclude. Say, will you marry her?
[Don Julio and Don Pedro peep out as from behind the hanging.
Don J. W'are come, you see, just as we could have wish'd. [Aside.
Don P. His fate hangs on his lips. [Aside.
Don Z. You are mistress of your words and actions, madam,
And may use me as you please; but this hand
Shall sooner pierce this heart than e'er be given
In marriage to Elvira.