Donning men's clothes? A masquerade? I fail to follow your meaning, gracious maiden.
PRINCESS (simply)
So I have learned at least from our poets. Angelica, and Bradamante and Fiordispina, scouring the country after their lovers, who were busy enough without them. I prefer Penelope, staying at home to save the lands and goods of Ulysses, and bringing up his son to rescue and avenge him.
DIEGO (reassured and indifferent)
Did Ulysses love Penelope any better for it, Madam? better than poor besotted Menelaus, after all his injuries, loved Helen back in Sparta?
PRINCESS
That is not the question. A woman born to be a prince's wife and prince's mother, does her work not for the sake of something greater than love, whether much or little.
DIEGO
For what then?
PRINCESS