Page:Dramas 3.pdf/342

340

O'errules not every duty; and to her, Who is despised, abandon'd, and disgraced, Can it be more imperious? No, Rasinga; I were unmeet to wear a woman's form, If, with the means to save my brother's life, Not implicating thine, I had, from fear Of thy displeasure, grievous as it is, Forborne to use them.

Ha! such bold words to justify the act, Making rebellion virtue! Such audacity Calls for the punishment which law provides For faithless and for disobedient wives.

Rasinga, if that shameful threat be serious, Thou art the fellest, fiercest, meanest tyrant, That e'er joined human form to demon's spirit.

And dost thou also front me with a storm Of loud injurious clamour?—Ho, without! (Calling aloud.) I came not here to hold a wordy war With criminals and women.—Ho! I say.

Secure the prisoner, and fasten tightly