XXIV.
‘Nor hope of pleasure this so much has wrought,
‘As that to compass my design would please;
‘And, if not in effect, at least in thought
‘To thrive, would interpose some little ease.
‘Then every time your bower by me is sought,
‘When in her bed Geneura slumbers, seize
‘What she puts off, and be it still your care
‘To dress yourself in all her daily wear.
XXV.
‘Dispose your locks and deck yourself as she
‘Goes decked; and, as you can, with cunning heed,
‘Imitate her; then to the gallery
‘You, furnished with the corded stair, shall speed:
‘I shall ascend it in the phantasy
‘That you are she, of whom you wear the weed:
‘And hope, that putting on myself this cheat,
‘I in short time shall quench my amorous heat.’
XXVI.
“So said the knight; and I, who was distraught,
“And all beside myself, was not aware
“That the design, in which he help besought,
“Was manifestly but too foul a snare;
“And in Geneura’s clothes disguised, as taught,
“Let down (so oft I used) the corded stair.
“Nor I the traitor’s foul deceit perceived,
“Until the deadly mischief was achieved.
