Hortensio, after fighting bravely and rescuing Gonzaga from capture, is himself captured by Lorenzo's forces – as is Matilda; the two are re-united in captivity. Duke Lorenzo, talking among his officers, admits that his prior demand for Matilda's hand was a feint of ambition, and that he has no real interest in her, or in a marriage of state. He changes his mind, however, when he actually meets her.
Hortensio, after displaying remarkable courage and freeing Gonzaga from captivity, is himself apprehended by Lorenzo's forces – along with Matilda; the two are reunited in confinement. Duke Lorenzo, discussing his intentions with his officers, admits that his initial demand for Matilda's hand was a clever ploy to further his own ambitions, and that he had no real desire for her or a strategic marriage. He later changes his mind when he actually meets her.