Sang. I found the casement of the upper chamber open, some twisted linen fastened to the bar, nearly reached to the ground without, and proved the method of her flight; a beldame who must have aided her escape, remains alone above, (turning towards the window,) ha! I catch a female figure darting through the trees at a distance; she runs with lightning speed,—now—she turns towards the castle.
Long. Distraction! if she gains the castle, I am lost forever; pursue! pursue!
Longueville and Sanguine rush out.
Bert. (Vehemently.) Guardians of innocence, direct her steps! He follows them.
[ SCENE III.]—A Gallery in the Chateau.
Enter Rosabelle followed by Gaspard.
Gasp. Ha! young mistress Rosabelle, whither so fast I pray? ’faith, damsel, you are fleet of foot.
Ros. Yet my steps are heavier than my heart, for that’s all feather, ready for any flight in fancy’s hemisphere; give thought but breath, and ’twere blown in a second to the moon or the antipodes, wilt along with me, Gaspard?
Gasp. What, to the moon or the antipodes? Alack! damsel, I should prove but a sorry travelling companion upon either road; no, no, youth is for night; but age for falls.
Ros. Wilt turn a waltz anon, and be my partner in the dance?