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SOPHERA.

Ha, my Lord!

You come not then to wish the gentle Countess
Joy of her lord's return.

TORTONA.

Is he return'd? It surely cannot be.

SOPHERA.

He is, in truth. This morning he arrived

With many valiant soldiers from the wars,
Where they have seen rough service.

TORTONA.

That war so quickly ended?

SOPHERA.

Yes, my Lord,

And fortunately too. The Moors submit
To the victorious arms of noble Garcio;
Who, ere he left their coast, did for his prince
A happy peace conclude. Will it not please you
To enter, then, and bid him welcome home?

TORTONA.

I should indeed,—but 'twill intrude upon him.

He and his lady may, perhaps, desire
Some hours of privacy.—Oblige me, then,
And offer my respect—congratulation—
I do but ill express the joy I feel.

I will no longer trespass. (Hurrying away, and then returning.)