Part 229 (2/2)

FLORIO [_from within, after a brief s.p.a.ce_]

Who is it calls me?

VIOLANTE

It is I, Violante!

FLORIO

Why have you come again?

VIOLANTE

I have returned, Florio, In strange times, bearing strange news.

FLORIO

My soul is full of death--I pray you go!

VIOLANTE

It could not be--aye, it is pa.s.sing strange!-- She said her name was ”Olivia.”

FLORIO

Olivia, ah, she lives!

VIOLANTE

Then, it is true? You love this shriveled woman?

FLORIO

Shriveled woman?

VIOLANTE

Ugly and bent and gray--a woman Who says in as few words she is your mistress.

FLORIO

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