Belv. Friends.
Jaff. Friends, Belvidera! hide me from my friends.
By Heaven, I'd rather see the face of hell
Than meet the man I love.
Offi. But what friends are you?
Belv. Friends to the Senate and the state of Venice.
Offi. My orders are, to seize on all I find
At this late hour, and bring them to the Council,
Who now are sitting.
Jaff. Sir, you shall be obeyed.
Hold, brutes! stand off, none of your paws upon me.
Now the lot's cast, and, fate, do what thou wilt. [Exeunt.
SCENE II.-The Senate House.
The Duke of Venice, Priuli, Antonio, and eight other Senators discovered in session.
Duke. Antony, Priuli, senators of Venice,
Speak; why are we assembled here this night?
What have you to inform us of, concerns
The state of Venice' honour, or its safety?