_Alphon._ Nay, father, stay; the gods of heaven forbid That e'er Alphonsus should desire or wish To have his absence whom he doth account To be the loadstar[52] of his life! What, though the Fates and Fortune, both in one, Have been content to call your loving son From beggar's state unto this princely seat, Should I therefore disdain my agèd sire? No, first both crown and life I will detest, Before such venom breed within my breast. What erst I did, the sudden joy I took To see Carinus in such happy state, Did make me do, and nothing else at all, High Jove himself do I to witness call. _Cari._ These words are vain; I knew as much before. But yet, Alphonsus, I must wonder needs That you, whose years are prone to Cupid's snares, Can suffer such a goddess as this dame Thus for to shed such store of crystal tears. Believe me, son, although my years be spent, Her sighs and sobs in twain my heart do rent. _Alphon._ Like power, dear father, had she over me, Until for love I looking to receive Love back again, not only was denied, But also taunted in most spiteful sort: Which made me loathe that which I erst did love, As she herself, with all her friends, shall prove. _Cari._ How now, Alphonsus! you which have so long Been trainèd up in bloody broils of Mars, What, know you not that castles are not won At first assault, and women are not woo'd When first their suitors proffer love to them? As for my part, I should account that maid A wanton wench, unconstant, lewd, and light, That yields the field before she venture fight; Especially unto her mortal foe, As you were then unto Iphigena. But, for because I see you fitter are To enter lists and combat with your foes Than court fair ladies in God Cupid's tents, Carinus means your spokesman for to be, And if that she consent, you shall agree. _Alphon._ What you command Alphonsus must not fly, Though otherwise perhaps he would deny. _Cari._ Then, dainty damsel, stint these trickling tears, Cease sighs and sobs, yea, make a merry cheer; Your pardon is already purchasèd, So that you be not over-curious[53] In granting to Alphonsus' just demand. _Iphi._ Thanks, mighty prince; no curioser I'll be Than doth become a maid of my degree.