_Bep._ 'Twas in the garden near our house, under the chestnut trees, deep in the shade. The full moon could not pierce the closely woven foliage. All her beams were caught on the topmost boughs which waved in silver. A lovely night to stain with murder! Oh me! I see them now.
_Ant._ Proceed, good Beppa, I'm eager to know all.
_Bep._ Their forms were not distinct, yet could we perceive their gleaming swords darting like fiery serpents; 'twas horrible. At last one fell; it proved to be Don Gaspar.
_Ant._ Indeed! you're sure there's no mistake?
_Bep._ I saw the body borne away. My mistress weeps and tears her hair, nor deems that he was false. I must to the church, but will return again immediately. [_Exit._
_Ant._ Now could I weep, and tear my hair, like Donna Serafina. My secret is worth nothing. 'Tis strange, too, that he should be o'ermatched by Don Perez, whose sword he so despised; I cannot yet believe it; and yet, she saw the body, and her mistress weeps. What can she gain by this, if 'twere deceit? Nothing. Why, then, 'tis plain Don Gaspar's dead. His foot slipped, I suppose, and thus the vaunted skill of years will often fail through accident. What's to be done now? I'm executor of course. Here comes Don Felix.
_Felix._ Art thou the lacquey of Don Gaspar?
_Ant._ (_pulling out his handkerchief, and putting it to his eyes_). I was, most noble sir.
_Ant._ He hath left me. Last night he fell, in combat with Don Perez.
_Felix._ 'Tis false. He hath slain my friend, whose body now lies in my house.
_Felix._ I tell you it is true. Where can a message find your master?
_Felix._ And where is that? Trifle not with me, knave, or you'll repent it sorely.
_Ant._ I do not trifle, sir. Don Gaspar's motions are unknown to me. Give me your message; when he re-appears I will deliver it.
_Felix._ Then tell him he's a villain of no parentage; a vile impostor whom I mean to punish;--that if there's manhood in him he will appoint a time and place where we may meet.
_Felix._ You may so construe by the message.
_Ant._ Pardon me, sir; but will you risk your noble person against one but too well practised in the sword? Excuse me, sir, you're hasty: there are other means more fitting for your purpose. I have his secret; one that will administer to your revenge, and win a triumph far greater than your sword.