Page:A Series of Plays on the Passions Volume 1.pdf/371

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De Mon. What dost thou say?

Grim. What I, perhaps, had better leave unsaid. Who will believe my wrongs if I complain? I am a stranger, Rezenvelt my foe. Who will believe my wrongs?

''De Mon. (Eagerly catching him by the coat.)'' I will believe them! Though they were base as basest, vilest deeds, In ancient record told, I would believe them. Let not the smallest atom of unworthiness That he has put upon thee be conceal'd. Speak boldly, tell it all; for, by the light! I'll be thy friend. I'll be thy warmest friend, If he has done thee wrong.

Grim. Nay, pardon me, it were not well advis'd, If I should speak so freely of the man, Who will so soon your nearest kinsman be.

De Mon. What canst thou mean by this?

Grim.That Marquis Rezenvelt Has pledg'd his faith unto your noble sister, And soon will be the husband of her choice. So, I am told, and so the world believes.

De Mon. 'Tis false! 'tis basely false! What wretch could drop from his envenom'd tongue A tale so damn'd?—It chokes my breath— (Stamping with his foot.) What wretch did tell it thee?

Grim. Nay, every one with whom I have convers'd