_Ant._ You have told me that at times you are a monk, and at times a cavalier. Which is the real character, him of the rosary, or him of the rapier?
_Gasp._ (_aside_). The knave is deep. (_Aloud._) I am a monk but when it suits me.
_Ant._ But, sir, is there not danger in thus assuming a holy character, if it were known--the Inquisition?
_Gasp._ I grant it: but we do many things which, if known, would subject us to something unpleasant. I serve two mistresses; but, should I marry them both----
_Ant._ (_starting back_). Then would you to the galleys, at east.
_Gasp._ Exactly so. I merely put the case, for I was told by Donna Isadora's maid, you are her husband; and this I also know, from your own mouth, you are married to Beppa.
_Ant._ There's some mistake, sir; for Nina is married to one whose name is Lopez. I cannot, sure, be he!
_Gasp._ If I can be both monk and cavalier, as you assert, why may not you be Lopez and Antonio? A name is changed as easily as a garment. But in your face I read conviction; I'm certain you have two wives!
_Ant._ It must be as you please, sir. Perhaps I may have confessed as much to you as a holy monk.
_Gasp._ (_Laughs._) When did you ever meet me in a church?
_Ant._ I do not say I have, sir; but then your knowledge is so certain.
_Gasp._ Suppose, then, that I know your secrets, thou wilt surely not reveal mine. There's for thine intelligence. (_Throws him a purse._)
_Ant._ May Heaven preserve my gracious master!
_Gasp._ This night must I to Donna Serafina's.
_Gasp._ Yes, I'll robe myself as holy monk. They dare not strike, even though they have suspicion. You may go. I shall not return to-night. [_Exit Antonio._ Scoundrel!--he is too cunning to believe me-- Yet still I have the secret of his wives. (_Muses._) This night I have discover'd the base Perez Again essays his most inconstant fair, Blind as inconstant. She rejected me When, as Friar Anselmo teaching music, I offer'd her--'tis true, unholy love; And I by Perez was thrust out with shame, Spurn'd with contumely as the door was closed, With threats if ever I appear'd again, To blazon forth my impious attempt, and-- Yet did she cozen me with melting eyes, And first roused up the demon in my breast, Then laugh'd in malice.----I hate her for it! Now as Don Gaspar, I've supplanted him, Pride and revenge, not love, impelling me; These gratified, I would shake off a chain Which now, in amorous violence, she'd rivet. Further, Don Perez, in his jealous mood, Has as Don Gaspar braved me. They shall find, I hold life cheap when I would have revenge! [_Exit._