Leo.

How now, brother? Where is my cousin, your son? Hath he provided this musick?

Ant.

He is very busy about it. But, brother, I can tell you news that you yet dream'd not of.

Leon.

Are they good?

Ant.

As the event stamps them; but they have a good cover, they show well outward. The prince and Count Claudio, walking in a thick-pleached alley^{4 note}

in my orchard, were thus overheard by a man of mine: The prince discover'd to Claudio, that he lov'd my niece your daughter, and meant to acknowledge it this evening in a dance; and, if he found her accordant, he meant to take the present time by the top, and instantly break with you of it.

Leon.

Hath the fellow any wit that told you this?

Ant.

A good sharp fellow; I will send for him, and question him yourself.

Leon.

No, no; we will hold it as a dream, till it appear itself:—but I will acquaint my daughter withal, that she may be the better prepared for an answer, if peradventure this be true: Go you, and tell her of it. [Several Servants cross the stage here.] Cousin, you know 9Q0228 what you have to do.—O, I cry you mercy, friend; go you with me, and I will use your skill:—Good cousin, have a care this busy time.

Previous section

Next section