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Tho' you had all to give ambition strives for. We must beware of him.

Duke. His father was my friend, I wish'd to gain him, But since fantastick fancies bind him thus, The sin be on his head, I stand acquitted, And must deceive him, even to his ruin.

Gaur. I have prepar'd Bernardo for your service; To-night he will depart for th' Austrian camp, And should he find them on the eve of battle, I've bid him wait the issue of the field. If that our secret friends victorious prove, With th' arrow's speed he will return again; But should fair Fortune crown Piscaro's arms. Then shall your soothing message greet his ears; For till our friends some sound advantage gain, Our actions still must wear an Austrian face.

Duke. Well hast thou school'd him. Did'st thou add withal, That 'tis my will he garnish well his speech, With honied words of the most dear regard, And friendly love I bear him. This is needful; And lest my slowness in the promis'd aid Awake suspicion, bid him e'en rehearse The many favours on my house bestow'd By his Imperial master, as a theme On which my gratitude delights to dwell.

Gaur. I have, an' please your highness.

Duke.Then 'tis well.

Gaur. But for the yielding up that little fort There could be no suspicion.