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Rh

Good cause have I to hate the Castrucani! I loved the loveliest lady of their line, And wedded her in secret. Brief the space That fate allow'd our moonlit happiness— We were surprised together. From that hour A settled darkness hangs upon her fate. The drug or dagger did their fatal work So secretly, that not a trace was left. A dungeon was my share—for three long years They held me captive, I escaped the third, But never could I learn my lady's doom!

Ah! such a parting well might break the heart.

Time brings strange chances, when a child of mine Weds with the Castrucani—but in vain Age seeks to struggle with its destiny; I'm worn and weary—all I seem to wish Is but a little rest before I die.

Speak not so mournfully, my own kind friend, Think how affection girdles you around, How gratitude puts up its prayer to heaven, Whene'er the orphan names Arrezi's name.

My own sweet child, would thou wert truly mine! I've sadden'd where at first we meant to cheer. We'll talk of grief no more; I pray you cast Your eye around, and see that all be set In fair array. I must now seek Leoni—(going.)