Page:Dramas 1.pdf/297

Rh

Madam, I have obey'd your summons; say Whate'er my humble service may perform. How fare you after this most dismal shock?

As one who hath a friend and husband both In one dire tempest lost. And, noble Carlos, Grief triumphs over pride, when even to thee, Though knowing well thy friendly worth, I own it. He was—I mean Henriquez—Oh! he was To me most strangely alter'd ere this stroke.

You are deceived; expecting to retain The undiminish'd empire of his heart Beyond the usual term of bridegroom weakness. It could not be.

No; I am not deceived. Sickness did yesterday for many hours Confine him to his chamber; yet in vain Did I entreat admittance—I who used To soothe his saddest hours, if any sad Could pass when I was near him.— And now again he is shut up alone, And has refused to see me. Worthy Carlos,