ERASTUS. Ay, that was before he knew thee to be mine; But now, Perseda, let's forget old griefs, And let our studies wholly be employ'd To work each other's bliss and heart's delight. PERSEDA. Our present joys will be so much the greater, When as we call to mind forepassed griefs: So sings the mariner upon the shore. When he hath pass'd the dangerous time of storms; But if my love will have old griefs forgot, They shall lay buried in Perseda's breast. _Enter_ BRUSOR _and_ LUCINA. ERASTUS. Welcome, lord Brusor. PERSEDA. And Lucina too. BRUSOR. Thanks, lord governor. LUCINA. And thanks to you, madam. ERASTUS. What hasty news brings you so soon to Rhodes? Although to me you never come too soon. BRUSOR. So it is, my lord, that upon great affairs, Importuning health and wealth of Soliman, His highness by me entreateth you, As ever you respect his future love, Or have regard unto his courtesy, To come yourself in person, and visit him, Without inquiry what should be the cause. ERASTUS. Were there no ships to cross the seas withal, Mine arms should frame me[419] oars to cross the seas; And, should the seas turn tide to force me back, Desire should frame me wings to fly to him. I go, Perseda: thou must give me leave. PERSEDA. Though loth, yet Soliman's command prevails. LUCINA. And, sweet Perseda, I will stay with you From Brusor my beloved; and I'll want[420] him, Till he bring back Erastus unto you. ERASTUS. Lord Brusor, come; 'tis time that we were gone. BRUSOR. Perseda, farewell; be not angry, For that I carry thy beloved from thee; We will return with all speed possible. And thou, Lucina, use Perseda so, That for my carrying of Erastus hence She curse me not; and so farewell to both. [_Exeunt._ PERSEDA. Come, Lucina, let's in; my heart is full. [_Exeunt._ _Enter_ SOLIMAN, LORD MARSHAL, _the Two Witnesses,_ _and Janissaries_. SOLIMAN. Lord Marshal, see you handle it cunningly: And, when Erastus comes, our perjur'd friend, See he be condemned by martial law; Here will I stand to see, and not be seen. MARSHAL.