_D._ I shall tell you mine. Frederick hath had for some time an intrigue 1500 With a lady—you understand,—a liberty I never have allowed, nor will: besides In him ’tis most intolerable.... Now yesterday it chanced I came to learn He had made appointment with this certain person To meet by night: I know not who she is; But, wishing to prevent it, I contrived To send him on my message to the Duke; With what result you have heard. _R._ The Duke, my lady, Is the only gainer here. _D._ And are not you? 1510 _R._ Yes, I too, if I am raised in your esteem. _D._ Then you must help me. _R._ I can truly vouch Your ladyship has read my heart and soul. I feel heaven-drawn to serve you to the death. What is’t to do? _D._ Only seek out this matter For me; discover who this lady is. For private reasons I feel justified In using any means to learn the truth Dishonestly held from me by my servant: 1519 And so I have questioned Tristram. He assures me They met last night: but he is profoundly dull, And not in Frederick’s confidence. _R._ Has he no notion How Frederick got this letter? _D._ No. _R._ Nor a hint Of this mysterious lady? _D._ He cannot help you. _R._ Your ladyship must have a near suspicion. _D._ Only a suspicion that’s unfit to tell. _Enter Laura._ Here is my sister, whom I wish to question. Come to me soon again; I have meanwhile Myself a stroke to play. When we next meet I may know more. 1530 _R._ Your most devoted servant. [_Exit._ _D._ Good morning, dearest Laura. _LAURA._ Good morning, sister. _D._ Did you sleep well last night? _L._ I slept till nine. _D._ What hour went you to bed? _L._ Not very late.... _D._ Nay: but what hour?—before eleven? _L._ (_aside_). What’s this? Are we discovered? _D._ Was it before eleven? _L._ I cannot tell. Why do you ask, Diana? What is it has happened? _D._ Answer me, I beg, And you shall know. About that hour of the night Did you hear any noise? _L._ (_aside_). Ricardo’s singing.— What kind of noise? _D._ Why, any noise, between 1540 Eleven and midnight. _L._ Did you hear a noise? _D._ No: but did you? _L._ O no: I heard no noise. What made you think there was a noise? _D._ I have reason. _L._ Was there a robbery?