_Cast._ My Polydore, how dost thou? How does our father; is he well recovered? _Pol._ I left him happily reposed to rest; He's still as gay as if his life were young. But how does fair Monimia? _Cast._ Doubtless well. A cruel beauty with her conquests pleased Is always joyful, and her mind in health. _Pol._ Is she the same Monimia still she was? May we not hope she's made of mortal mould? _Cast._ She's not woman else: Though I'm grown weary of this tedious hoping; We've in a barren desert strayed too long. _Pol._ Yet may relief be unexpected found, And love's sweet manna cover all the field. Met ye to-day? _Cast._ No; she has still avoided me. Her brother too is jealous of her grown, And has been hinting something to my father. I wish I'd never meddled with the matter; And would enjoin thee, Polydore-- _Pol._ To what? _Cast._ To leave this peevish beauty to herself. _Pol._ What, quit my love? as soon I'd quit my post In fight, and like a coward run away. No, by my stars! I'll chase her till she yields To me, or meets her rescue in another. _Cast._ Nay, she has beauty that might shake the leagues Of mighty kings, and set the world at odds; But I have wondrous reasons on my side That would persuade thee, were they known. _Pol._ Then speak them. What are they? came ye to her window here To learn them now? Castalio, have a care; Use honest dealing with your friend and brother. Believe me, I'm not with my love so blinded, But can discern your purpose to abuse me. Quit your pretences to her. _Cast._ Grant I do; You love capitulation, Polydore, And but upon conditions would oblige me. _Pol._ You say, you've reasons; why are they concealed? _Cast._ To-morrow I may tell you: It is a matter of such circumstance, As I must well consult ere I reveal. But, pr'ythee, cease to think I would abuse thee, Till more be known. _Pol._ When you, Castalio, cease To meet Monimia unknown to me, And then deny it slavishly, I'll cease To think Castalio faithless to his friend. Did I not see you part this very moment? _Cast._ It seems you've watched me then? _Pol._ I scorn the office. _Cast._ Pr'ythee avoid a thing thou mayst repent. _Pol._ That is, henceforward making leagues with you. _Cast._ Nay, if you're angry, Polydore, good night. [_Exit._