Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 3.pdf/43

Rh

To tell her stories of the restless dead? Of spectres rising at the midnight watch By the lone trav'ller's bed?

Cath. Wherefore of late dost thou so oft enquire Of what she says and does?

Rud. Be wise, and answer what I ask of thee; This is thy duty now.

Cath. Alas, alas! I know that one false step Has o'er me set a stern and ruthless master.

Rud. No, madam; 'tis thy grave and virtuous seeming; Thy saint-like carriage, rigid and demure, On which thy high repute so long has stood, Endowing thee with right of censorship O'er every simple maid, whose cheerful youth Wears not so thick a mask, that o'er thee sets This ruthless master. Hereon rests my power: I might expose, and therefore I command thee.

Cath. Hush, hush! approaching steps! They'll find me here! I'll do whate'er thou wilt.

Rud. It is but Maurice: hie thee to thy closet, Where I will shortly come to thee. Be thou My faithful agent in a weighty matter, On which I now am bent, and I will prove Thy stay and shelter from the world's contempt.

Cath. Maurice to find me here! Where shall I hide me?

Rud. No where, but boldly pass him as be enters.