The time is precious, and I must be short.
Ros. On me your slightest word more pow'r will have,
Most honour'd lady, than a conn'd oration.
Thou art the only one of all thy sex,
Who wearst thy years with such a winning grace,
Thou art the more admir'd the more thou fadst.
Alb. I thank your lordship for these courteous words,
But to my purpose. You are Basil's friend;
Be friendly to him then, and warn him well
This court to leave, nor be allur'd to stay,
For if he does, there's mischief waits him here
May prove the bane of all his future days.
Remember this, I must no longer stay.
God bless your friend and you; I love you both.
[Exit.
Ros, alone. What may this warning mean? I had my fears.
There's something hatching which I know not of.
I've lost all spirit for this masking now.
(throwing away his papers and his willow.)
Away ye scraps! I have no need of you.
I would I knew what garment Basil wears;
I watch'd him but he did escape my sight;
But I must search again and find him out.[Exit.
Enter Basil much agitated, with his mask in his hand.
Bas. In vain I've sought her, follow'd ev'ry form
