I am sent hither to your husband, to
Announce "the Ten's" decree.
Announce "the Ten's" decree.
Byron
_Lor. _ (_to the Familiars_). Retire,
But leave the torch. [_Exeunt the two Familiars_.
_Jac. Fos. _ Most welcome, noble Signor.
I did not deem this poor place could have drawn 250
Such presence hither.
_Lor. _ 'Tis not the first time
I have visited these places.
_Mar. _ Nor would be
The last, were all men's merits well rewarded.
Came you here to insult us, or remain[bp]
As spy upon us, or as hostage for us?
_Lor. _ Neither are of my office, noble Lady!
I am sent hither to your husband, to
Announce "the Ten's" decree.
_Mar. _ That tenderness
Has been anticipated: it is known.
_Lor. _ As how?
_Mar. _ I have informed him, not so gently, 260
Doubtless, as your nice feelings would prescribe,
The indulgence of your colleagues; but he knew it.
If you come for our thanks, take them, and hence!
The dungeon gloom is deep enough without you,
And full of reptiles, not less loathsome, though
Their sting is honester.
_Jac. Fos. _ I pray you, calm you:
What can avail such words?
_Mar. _ To let him know
That he is known.
_Lor. _ Let the fair dame preserve
Her sex's privilege.
