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I do not know the times in which I live. So much of change lies heavy on each hour! Castruccio comes to-night—now greet him fair.

What! when he comes a suitor to my cousin?

Such an alliance will secure us all.

I tell you, count, that it shall never be; Think upon what you owe your ancient line: Its feuds are bonds its honour must hold dear. We hate the Castrucani!

I have small cause, if you knew all, to love them.

And yet you yield and tamper with Castruccio.

And once again, I say, what can we do?

He wavers—ancient hatred is too strong For the new bond of interest and of fear, But yet I dare not trust him with the scheme That rises dark and vague upon my mind. I must think more. (Aloud.)—Again, I say, resist! But wisely, calmly; never should the sword Flash till it strikes.

I'll tell you truly, kinsman, I like not this alliance: it is forced