Isaac. [Aside.] I’faith no bad whim this!—If I take her at her word, I shall secure her fortune, and avoid making any settlement in return; thus I shall not only cheat the lover, but the father too. Oh, cunning rogue, Isaac! ay, ay, let this little brain alone! Egad, I’ll take her in the mind!

Duen. Well, sir, what’s your determination?

Isaac. Madam, I was dumb only from rapture—I applaud your spirit, and joyfully close with your proposal; for which thus let me, on this lily hand, express my gratitude.

Duen. Well, sir, you must get my father’s consent to walk with me in the garden. But by no means inform him of my kindness to you.

Isaac. No, to be sure, that would spoil all: but, trust me when tricking is the word—let me alone for a piece of cunning; this very day you shall be out of his power.

Duen. Well, I leave the management of it all to you; I perceive plainly, sir, that you are not one that can be easily outwitted.

Isaac. Egad, you’re right, madam—you’re right, i’faith.

Re-enter Maid.

Maid. Here’s a gentleman at the door, who begs permission to speak with Signor Isaac.

Isaac. A friend of mine, ma’am, and a trusty friend—let him come in—[Exit Maid.] He’s one to be depended on, ma’am.

Enter Don Carlos.

So Coz.

[Talks apart with Don Carlos.

Don Car. I have left Donna Clara at your lodgings, but can nowhere find Antonio.

Isaac. Well, I will search him out myself. Carlos, you rogue, I thrive, I prosper!

Don Car. Where is your mistress?

Isaac. There, you booby, there she stands.

Don Car. Why, she’s damned ugly!

Isaac. Hush!

[Stops his mouth.

Duen. What is your friend saying, signor?

Isaac. Oh, ma’am, he is expressing his raptures at such charms as he never saw before. Eh, Carlos?

Don Car. Ay, such as I never saw before, indeed!

Duen. You are a very obliging gentleman. Well, Signor Isaac, I believe we had better part for the present. Remember our plan.