Page:Castelvines y Monteses Translated.pdf/91

70 Resentment somewhat old, I dare Not suffer shock of Montes' death or hurt. Think it not lightness thus to speak; I am but woman, and of purpose weak.

Antonio. Revenge may be as sweet to me As e'er it is to womankind! As Paris' wife, Thy hope more sure, in him our great Defence must ever hold. He, knowing How thy wishes drift, think'st thou No cunning chance he'll find to slay This villain we most hate of all the Montes' kin? My word is pledged—thou'lt be Count Paris' wife?

Julia. Oh heavens! father!

Antonio. Had I thy wishes known, I had not Call'd the Count, nor written him to press His wedded hopes with thee, Nor in my letters named him son! This have I done, and thus thou'rt pledged To be Count Paris' wife!

Julia. Alas! alas! Poor me!

Antonio. Thou dost forget a widow'd father's claim. Why weep, and court such red-eyed grief? I'm not thy foe, nor he who kill'd Otavio. Remember, Julia, I have promise made; Castelvin's honour knows no taint nor shade.

Julia (apart). Great Heaven, how I tremble. Dare I not die? What fear I then?—thrice welcome death, oh! why?

Antonio (aside). She's doubting still. I know not what To tell the Count. (Aloud.) Oh, Julia!

Julia. Sir, I am ready, and to-day, to wed the Count;