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COUNTESS.

Ay, is he near?

ROVANI.

Within a few short miles.

The war has ended sooner than we guess'd,
And we have made good speed.

COUNTESS.

So near!

ROVANI.

How is it? This affects you strangely.

COUNTESS.

Such unexpected news! I should be glad,

But gladness comes with pain. I will retire,
And for a moment strive to calm this tremor.
(To Sophera.) Follow me not.
[Exit.

ROVANI (looking after her as she goes off).

I have, ere now, beheld the sudden news

Of a good lord's return from foreign lands
By wedded dame received; but so received,
Never till now. How's this? What is the matter?
How shall a simple bachelor, as I am,
Have thoughts of this bless'd state, if such as she
Cold and capricious prove?