THE second act opens with one of those confidences
(usual on the Spanish stage at that period) between
master and servant. Romeo discusses with the Gracioso his plan for elopement with Julia, and secures
the aid and good offices of the servant, who thus moralizes aside:—
How much requital do all masters make
For that good help a servant can assure them?
I dare not play him false. This colt is skittish.
Keep your eyes open: to-day I see his heel,
To-morrow I the kicks may chance to feel.
The Gracioso, addressing his master, advises caution, and
Romeo replies—
So much precaution
Shows but the faintness of your heart, methinks.
To which the Gracioso replies—
What gains a man by meddling in the strife?
A water-bearer's daughter for a wife.
Those blustering fellows who from morn to night
Would make you think they only live to fight.
I stabbed him to the heart, I stopp'd his breath,
I fought all three til every one found death.
