How women love who love Prince Philamir!
We were betrothed, but secretly. Alas!
I was a humble waiting lady, he
A mighty Prince—so we concealed our love.
Then it was rumored that he sought your hand,
That policy, the curse of kings, required
That he should marry you. Then I fell ill—
(Struggling with her emotion) Pass over that. Let it suffice that I
Released him—for I loved him passing well!
Zeo. (amazed). I never knew of this!