Part 23 (2/2)

Whoe'er may claim me, thou'rt the man shall have me.

Away! Despatch! But hark you, ere you go, Ne'er brag of reading Ovid's Art of Love!

_Mod_. And cousin! stop--one little word with you!

[She returns, he s.n.a.t.c.hes a kiss--They go out severally.]

SCENE II.--Julia's Chamber.

[Enter JULIA.]

_Julia_. No word from him, and evening now set in!

He cannot play me false! His messenger Is dogged--or letter intercepted. I'm Beset with spies!--No rescue!--No escape!-- The hour at hand that brings my bridegroom home!

No relative to aid me! friend to counsel me.

[A knock at the door.]

Come in.

[Enter two Female Attendants.]

Your will?

_First Attendant_. Your toilet waits, my lady; 'Tis time you dress.

_Julia_. 'Tis time I die! [A peal of bells.] What's that?

_First Attendant_. Your wedding bells, my lady.

_Julia_. Merrily They ring my knell!

[Second Attendant presents an open case.]

And pray you what are these?

_Second Attendant_. Your wedding jewels.

_Julia_. Set them by.

_Second Attendant_. Indeed.

Was ne'er a braver set! A necklace, brooch, And earrings all of brilliants, with a hoop To guard your wedding ring.

_Julia_. 'Twould need a guard That lacks a heart to keep it!

_Second Attendant_. Here's a heart Suspended from the necklace--one huge diamond Imbedded in a host of smaller ones!

Oh! how it sparkles!

_Julia_. Show it me! Bright heart, Thy l.u.s.tre, should I wear thee, will be false,-- For thou the emblem art of love and truth,-- From her that wears thee unto him that gives thee.

Back to thy case! Better thou ne'er shouldst leave it-- Better thy gems a thousand fathoms deep In their native mine again, than grace my neck, And lend thy fair face to palm off a lie!

_First Attendant_. Will't please you dress?

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