[While the ladies are at the pool enter Guido.]

GUIDO. Greeting, madam!

OCT. Who greets me?--Ah, it is the Duke.
Good even, Guido. You seek an audience with me?

GUIDO. Nay--nay--but if you send away your women,--
We shall be more alone.

OCT. [After considering him a moment.] You may leave me now,
Laura, Francesca--all of you--and you would best go in
At an early hour, instead of walking the gardens
All night; I would have you with your wits
About you in the morning.

LAU. [Aside.] Oh, indeed?
You would best go in yourself, lest the dew rust you,
You sauce-pan! [Exeunt ladies.]

OCT. Now, my good sir,--you may speak.

GUI. [As if by way of conversation.]
It is a long time, is it not, your daughter
Is absent from the court?

OCT. Why say you that?

GUI. Why but to pass the time, till she returns?