Alvar. I am he.

Ordonio. With you, then, I am to speak: [Haughtily waving his hand to Zulimez.
And mark you, alone. [Exit Zulimez. 70
[[844]] 'He that can bring the dead to life again!'—
Such was your message, Sir! You are no dullard,
But one that strips the outward rind of things!

Alvar. 'Tis fabled there are fruits with tempting rinds,
That are all dust and rottenness within. 75
Would'st thou I should strip such?

Ordonio. Thou quibbling fool,
What dost thou mean? Think'st thou I journeyed hither
To sport with thee?

Alvar. O no, my lord! to sport
Best suits the gaiety of innocence.

Ordonio (aside). O what a thing is man! the wisest heart 80
A fool! a fool that laughs at its own folly,
Yet still a fool! [Looks round the cottage.
You are poor!

Alvar. What follows thence?

Ordonio. That you would fain be richer.
The inquisition, too—You comprehend me?
You are poor, in peril. I have wealth and power, [85]
Can quench the flames, and cure your poverty:
And for the boon I ask of you but this,
That you should serve me—once—for a few hours.

Alvar. Thou art the son of Valdez! would to Heaven
That I could truly and for ever serve thee. [90]

Ordonio. The slave begins to soften. [Aside.
You are my friend,
'He that can bring the dead to life again,'
Nay, no defence to me! The holy brethren
Believe these calumnies—I know thee better.
Thou art a man, and as a man I'll trust thee! 95