Regent (eying the culprit). His name, I think, Is Donatello Crocco. Hey? You improve, Good man. The last time 'twas your wife you basted. At this rate, in another year or two You'll bang the Turk. Do you confess the assault?

Prisoner. I do.

Regent. Upon a promise we dismiss you. Your tavern, as it comes into our mind, Is the 'Three Cups.' So many, and no more, You'll drink to-day—have we your word? Three cups, And each a Viva for the Duke's return.

Prisoner. Your Highness, I'll not take it at the price Of my good manners. I'm a gallant man: And who in Adria calls. 'Three cheers for the Duke!' But adds a fourth for the Duchess? Lady, nay; Grant me that fourth, or back I go to the cells!

[The Regent laughs and nods to the Guard to release him.

Regent. What next?

An Old Woman (very rapidly). Your Highness will not know me—Zia Agnese, Giovannucci's wife that was; And feed a two-three cows, as a widow may, On the marshes where the grass is salt and sweet As your Highness knows—and always true to pail Until this Nicolo—

Nicolo. Lies! lies, your Highness!

Old Woman. Having a quarrel, puts the evil eye On Serafina. She's my best of cows, In stall with calf but ten days weaned.

Nicolo. Lies! lies!

Old Woman. I would your Highness saw her! When that thief Hangs upon Lazarus' bosom, he'll be bidding A ducat for each drop of milk he's cost me, To cool his tongue.

Regent. Ay—ay, the cow is sick, I think; and mind me, being country-bred, Of a cure for such: which is, to buy a comb And comb the sufferer's tail at feeding-time. If Zia Agnese do but this, she'll counter The Evil Eye, and maybe with her own Detect who thieves her Serafina's hay.

Old Woman. God bless your Highness!

Nicolo. God bless your Highness!

Regent (taking up a fresh suit).Why, what's here? "Costanza, Wife of Giuseppe Boni, citeth him And sueth to live separate, for neglect And divers beatings, as to wit----" H'm, h'm— Likewise to keep the child Geronimo, Begotten of his body. You defend The suit, Giuseppe?

A Young Peasant (shrugs his shoulders). As the woman will! I'll not deny 

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