To possess a woman outwardly passive but inwardly resistant, would be far from satisfying my desires, least of all in the present case.

I wish, not merely as a lover, but also as one beloved, to taste a rapture which I should be prepared to pay for with my life.

Understand this clearly, Lorenzi.

For the reason I have explained, Marcolina must not for an instant suspect that I am the man whom she is clasping to her sweet bosom; she must be firmly convinced that you are in her arms.

It is your part to pave the way for this deception; mine to maintain it.
You will not have much difficulty in making her understand that you will have to leave her before dawn.