Page:All for love- or, The world well lost. A tragedy as it is acted at the Theatre-Royal; and written in imitation of Shakespeare's stile. By John Dryden, servant to His Majesty (IA allforloveorworl00indryd).pdf/42

16 Has taught my mind the fortune of a Slave.

Iras.Call Reason to assist you.

Cleo.I have none. And none would have: my Love's a noble madness, Which shows the cause deserv'd it. Moderate sorrow Fits vulgar Love; and for a vulgar Man: But I have lov'd with such transcendent passion, I soar'd, at first, quite out of Reasons view, And now am lost above itNo, I'm proud 'Tis thus: would Antony could see me now; Think you he would not sigh? though he must leave me, Sure he would sigh; for he is noble-natur'd, And bears a tender heart: I know him well. Ah, no, I know him not; I knew him once, But now 'tis past.

Iras.Let it be past with you: Forget him, Madam.

Cleo.Never, never, Iras. He once was mine; and once, though now 'tis gone, Leaves a faint Image of possession still.

Alex.Think him unconstant, cruel, and ungrateful.

Cleo.I cannot: if I could, those thoughts were vain; Faithless, ungrateful, cruel, though he be, I still must love him. Now, What news my Charmion? Will he be kind? and, Will he not forsake me? Am I to live, or dye? nay, Do I live? Or am I dead? for, when he gave his answer, Fate took the word, and then I liv'd, or dy'd.

Char.I found him, Madam

Cleo.A long Speech preparing? If thou bring'st comfort, hast, and give it me; For never was more need.

Iras.I know he loves you.

Cleo.Had he been kind, her eyes had told me so, Before her tongue could speak it: now she studies, To soften what he said; but give me death, Just