preach repentance, and teach mankind to curb their headstrong
passions. I forgive your Highness's uncharitable apostrophe; I
know my duty, and am the minister of a mightier prince than
Manfred. Hearken to him who speaks through my organs."

Manfred trembled with rage and shame. Hippolita's countenance
declared her astonishment and impatience to know where this would
end. Her silence more strongly spoke her observance of Manfred.

"The Lady Isabella," resumed Jerome, "commends herself to both your
Highnesses; she thanks both for the kindness with which she has
been treated in your castle: she deplores the loss of your son,
and her own misfortune in not becoming the daughter of such wise
and noble Princes, whom she shall always respect as Parents; she
prays for uninterrupted union and felicity between you" [Manfred's
colour changed]: "but as it is no longer possible for her to be
allied to you, she entreats your consent to remain in sanctuary,
till she can learn news of her father, or, by the certainty of his
death, be at liberty, with the approbation of her guardians, to
dispose of herself in suitable marriage."

"I shall give no such consent," said the Prince, "but insist on her
return to the castle without delay: I am answerable for her person
to her guardians, and will not brook her being in any hands but my
own."

"Your Highness will recollect whether that can any longer be
proper," replied the Friar.

"I want no monitor," said Manfred, colouring; "Isabella's conduct