CLE. Is he not somewhat startled at the report of thy debauchery? For though your thickset woods and spreading vineyards make excellent shades to keep away the sun--I mean the piercing eye of censure--yet some suspicions common fame will raise. ERG. Indeed it was my enemy, whilst my elder brother lived. CLE. But since his death you are altered. I must confess it, for then the slenderness of your annuity allowed you but the election of some one sin: I mean a cherished sin, whilst the others repined, that thought themselves of equal dignity; in time they had their turns, yet singly still: but since your brother's death you have shown yourself a grateful gentleman, and recompensed those that have suffered for you to the full. ERG. A pretty satire this, to whip boys of nine! Yet still I tell thee, I am another in the opinion of the world. CLE. Another Heliogabalus thou wouldst be, Hadst thou his power; but by what conjuration can You bring me to think it? ERG. By reason, which is a spirit will hardly be Rais'd in you; but thus it is. Whilst my brother Liv'd, my wildness was observed by---- CLE. But now you walk in shades, recluse, and shut Up in your coach; your painted liveries Supposed fairies, and she that you were wont to Visit by the name of Madam Ruffiana is now Your aunt. All this I am perfect in, yet cannot Reach the mystery of your suppos'd disguise You say doth mask you. ERG. Hear me, and be converted. I say I was Observed by those that were nearest in blood to me; And with fear, too, lest the ruin of my Fortune might force them to supply my wants. This caus'd the ague, this the admonitions and Frequent counsels--sometimes severe reproofs, Every one curling himself from any hopes of mine, That would assist me; and those gave largest counsels, That would give nothing else. CLE. Of this I am yet a sad party and a witness too. ERG. Since my brother's death, the names of things Are changed; my riots are the bounties of my nature, Carelessness the freedom of my soul: My prodigality, an easiness of mind proportion'd To my fortune. Believe me, Cleon, this poverty Is that which puts a multiplying-glass upon our Faults, and makes 'em swell, and fill the eye; Our crimes cry highest then when they have brought us low. CLE. I have not known any condemn'd for playing, But for losing. ERG. True; and let it be thy rule for all things else. CLE. If this be certain, 'twill be long ere I be reputed virtuous. ERG. Thou'lt never be, unless it be this way, I prophesy, good Cleon---- CLE. 'Tis a sad story; pray let us leave it. Have you no rivals? ERG. None present that I can fear, having her Father's firm consent. CLE. Eugenio, your rival, still continues banish'd.