The Triumph of Love [antikvár]

Act One SCENE ONE Leonide disguised as Phocion. Corine disguised as Hermidas. Phocion So these, I believe, are the gardens of Hermocrate the philosopher. Hermidas Yes, but Madame, isn't it wrong for two strangers like ourselves to just - what - walk in uninvited? Phocion Why? The gates are open - and besides we've business with the master of the house: let's stroll a little while along this path, and I'll tell you everything you need to know. Hermidas Oh, it's so long since I've felt this free! But, princess, for my true delight, for my perfect happiness -for my own entertainment - why not let me ask some questions instead? Phocion As you wish. Hermidas Firstly, you quit the city and your own court, you come here with a handful of servants, to one of your own chateaux in the country and ask me to join you. Phocion Correct. Hermidas And since you know that I've learned, for my own amusement, how to paint, we've only been here four or five days when one morning, secretly, you show me two portraits, one of a man of forty-five, the other of a woman of thirty-five or so, both reasonably attractive, and ask me for copies in miniature.