DIEGO
From a man's standpoint?
PRINCESS
Nay; methinks a woman's. For I observe that women, when they wish to help men, think first of all of some transparent masquerade, donning men's clothes, at all events in metaphor, in order to be near their lovers when not wanted.
DIEGO (hastily)
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?