_Cont._ The daughter, sir, of signior Carolo, Fair Lidia, a virgin, at all parts, But in her birth and fortunes, equal to him. The rarest beauties Italy can make boast of Are but mere shadows to her, she the substance Of all perfection. And what increases The wonder, sir, her body's matchless form Is better'd by the pureness of her soul. Such sweet discourse, such ravishing behaviour, Such charming language, such enchanting manners, With a simplicity that shames all courtship[67], Flow hourly from her, that I do believe Had Circe or Calypso her sweet graces, Wandering Ulysses never had remember'd Penelope, or Ithaca. _Coz._ Be not rapt so. _Cont._ Your excellence would be so, had you seen her. _Coz._ Take up, take up[68].--But did your observation Note any passage of affection Between her and my nephew? _Cont._ How it should Be otherwise between them, is beyond My best imagination. Cupid's arrows Were useless there; for of necessity, Their years and dispositions do accord so, They must wound one another. _Coz._ Umph! Thou art My secretary, Contarino, and more skill'd In politic designs of state, than in Thy judgment of a beauty; give me leave, In this, to doubt it.--Here. Go to my cabinet, You shall find there letters newly received, Touching the state of Urbin. Pray you, with care peruse them: leave the search Of this to us. _Cont._ I do obey in all things. [_Exit._ _Coz._ Lidia! a diamond so long conceal'd, And never worn in court! of such sweet feature! And he on whom I fix my dukedom's hopes Made captive to it! Umph! 'tis somewhat strange. Our eyes are every where, and we will make A strict inquiry.--Sanazarro! _Re-enter_ SANAZARRO. _Sanaz._ Sir. _Coz._ Is my nephew at his rest? _Sanaz._ I saw him in bed, sir. _Coz._ 'Tis well; and does the princess Fiorinda, Nay, do not blush, she is rich Urbin's heir, Continue constant in her favours to you? _Sanaz._ Dread sir, she may dispense them as she pleases; But I look up to her as on a princess I dare not be ambitious of, and hope Her prodigal graces shall not render me Offender to your highness. _Coz._ Not a scruple. He whom I favour, as I do my friend, May take all lawful graces that become him: But touching this hereafter. I have now (And though perhaps it may appear a trifle) Serious employment for thee. _Sanaz._ I stand ready For any act you please. _Coz._ I know it, friend. Have you ne'er heard of Lidia, the daughter Of Carolo Charomonte? _Sanaz._ Him I know, sir, For a noble gentleman, and my worthy friend; But never heard of her.