_Clin._ Though, sir, I were quite content to reckon upon your zeal, 450 Maybe you overrate your ability. _Ph._ Not at all. Unless you will say that by art I am able to counterfeit Passion in all its branches, & yet not know the thing When I see it;—as if a man c^d write who cannot read. You think your love for this lady a secret between yourselves— That she would not reveal it to me, a stranger? How in the world Could she conceal it? Why, don’t you know that a girl in love Is _A B C_ to read? Trust me and let me try. _Pam._ Clinia, do yield, I pray. _Clin._ I know not what to do. I’ll yield so far as this: that if Philolaches 460 Can, as he boasts, discover these two things for me, first How my father stands disposed to me now, and next Whether Antiphila’s heart is firm—and this so soon And easily as he thinks—I would not hinder him. One stipulation only: let him name what time Will cover the whole performance; for failing him, I’d like To take my affairs in hand myself. I’ll ask him then, When does he hope to do this? _Ph._ Give me an hour apiece. _Clin._ This afternoon. _Ph._ Enough: a bargain. ’Tis two hearts To read—your father and mistress. _Clin._ And both this afternoon. 470 _Pam._ And bring the lady if she is true. _Clin._ I said not that. _Pam._ Clinia, you must. _Ph._ Agree to this: I first will go And visit Antiphila; if she is willing, I bring her here, And here you may meet. But since she comes as Gorgo’s maid, ’Twill be easy for you to withdraw with her, where and when you choose: I meanwhile will angle your father. _Clin._ (_to Pam._). Then thus I assent, That first, she is not introduced to your father; and secondly, That I may take her away when I choose. _Pam._ Agreed. _Ph._ I’m off. But first a word with you (_to Pam._). _Pam._ (_to Clin._). O Clinia, I do thank you. But don’t stay out here longer: somebody is sure to see you. 480 Go into the house. _Clin._ If you will come with me. _Pam._ I’ll come directly. _Clin._ I have never met your people. I can’t go in by myself. _Pam._ Why, man alive, there’s only my father and mother. Go in. [_Exit Clinia within._ _Ph._ Your friend has money? _Pam._ Yes, his father. _Ph._ If I succeed, He’ll give me something? _Pam._ Surely. What are you going to do?