Osorio. Nay, say not so. As for this Ferdinand,
'Tis certain that he was a Catholic.
What changes may have happen'd in three years,
I cannot say, but grant me this, good father! [175]
I'll go and sift him: if I find him sound,
You'll grant me your authority and name
To liberate his house.
Francesco. My lord you have it.
Osorio (to Alhadra). I will attend you home within an hour.
Meantime return with us, and take refreshment. [180]
Alhadra. Not till my husband's free, I may not do it.
I will stay here.
Maria (aside). Who is this Ferdinand?
Velez. Daughter!
Maria. With your permission, my dear lord,
I'll loiter a few minutes, and then join you.
[Exeunt Velez, Francesco, and Osorio.
Alhadra. Hah! there he goes. A bitter curse go with him. [185]
A scathing curse!
[Alhadra had been betrayed by the warmth of her feelings into an imprudence. She checks herself, yet recollecting Maria's manner towards Francesco, says in a shy and distrustful manner