Page:Felicia Hemans in The Court Magazine Volume IV 1834.pdf/4



CARMAGNOLA. ! I!— that name of infamy Reaches not me. Let him the title bear, Who best deserves such meed—it is not mine. Call me a dupe, and I may well submit, For such my part is here; yet would I not Exchange that name, for 'tis the worthier still. A traitor!—I retrace in thought the time, When for your cause I fought: 'tis all one path Strewed o'er with flowers. Point out the day on which A traitor's deeds were mine; the day which passed Unmark'd by thanks, and praise, and promises Of high reward! What more? Behold me here! And when I came, to seeming honour called— When in my heart most deeply spoke the voice Of love, and grateful zeal, and trusting faith— —Of trusting faith! Oh! no—Doth he who comes Th' invited guest of friendship, dream of faith? I came to be ensnared! Well! it is done, And be it so! but since deceitful hate Hath thrown at length her smiling mask aside, Praise be to heaven! an open field at least Is spread before us. Now 'tis yours to speak, Mine to defend my cause: declare ye then My treasons! DOGE. By the Secret College soon All shall be told thee. CARMAGNOLA. I appeal not there. What I have done for you, hath all been done In the bright noon-day, and its tale shall not Be told in darkness. Of a warrior's deeds Warriors alone should judge; and such I choose To be mine arbiters; my proud defence Shall not be made in secret. All shall hear. DOGE. The time for choice is past. CARMAGNOLA. What! is there force Employed against me?—Guards! (raising his voice.)