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Ev'n oaths upon the holy reliques sworn, The holy church annuls: it will release you. Then say not you are bound.

From oaths upon the holy reliques sworn The church can loose, as thou, no doubt, hast learnt From sacred books and this good Father's lore; But, solemnly, upon Henriquez's sword I've pledged a prince's word—a soldier's honour, From which nought can release me, but the will And free consent of him to whom 't is pledged. Hie, therefore, to thy Lord: kneel at his feet, And may Heaven give thee power to touch his heart.

Is all my hope in this! Unhappy woman! By Heaven and man abandon'd!—Dismal doom! There's mockery in this. Thou art a king, And canst command what I would beg in vain; Command him, as his royal Liege and Master, That he release thee from this fatal pledge. A king, and not obey'd! deceitful shadow! Doth not thy power o'er all things reign supreme?