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Ha! who seeks entrance at this early hour In such a desert place?

Cath. Some hind, perhaps, Who brings intelligence. Heaven grant it be!

Rud. Ha! one from Aldenberg! What brings thee hither?

Vass. (seizing Rud.) Thou art my prisoner. (To Attendants.) Upon your peril, Assist me to secure him.

Rud. Audacious hind! by what authority Speak'st thou such bold commands? Produce thy warrant.

Vass. 'Tis at the gate, and such as thou must yield to: Count Hughobert himself, with armed men, A goodly band, his pleasure to enforce. (Secures him.)

Rud. What sudden freak is this? am I suspected Of aught but true and honourable faith?

Vass. Aye, by our holy Saints! more than suspected. Thy creature Maurice, whom thou thought'st to bribe With things of seeming value, hath discover'd The cunning fraud; on which his tender conscience, Good soul! did o'the sudden so upbraid him, That to his Lord forthwith he made confession