[Enter CLIFFORD and MODUS.]

Clif. A dreadful question is it, when we love,
To ask if love's returned! I did believe
Fair Julia's heart was mine--I doubt it now!
But once last night she danced with me, her hand,
To this gallant and that engaged, as soon
As asked for? Maid that loved would scarce do this?
Nor visit we together as we used,
When first she came to town. She loves me less
Than once she did--or loves me not at all.

Mod. I'm little skilled, Sir Thomas, in the world:
What mean you now to do?

Clif. Remonstrate with her;
Come to an understanding, and, at once,
If she repents her promise to be mine,
Absolve her from it--and say farewell to her.

Mod. Lo, then, your opportunity--she comes -
My cousin also: --her will I engage,
Whilst you converse together.

Clif. Nay, not yet!
My heart turns coward at the sight of her.
Stay till it finds new courage! Let them pass.

[CLIFFORD and MODUS retire into the other Arbour.]