Page:Landon in Literary Gazette 1822.pdf/74



Agnes. Oh, say That he but lives, and I will worship you! Julian. If he but lives! And have you then no fears? In absence lovers vows are fragile things, In India there are rich and lovely brides;— He may not have your own fond constancy. Agnes. I'll tell you what our love has been, and then Ask you if I should doubt it:— and I Grew up together, and our love was hallowed By our fond parents' blessing. I do count Not on a lover's passionate vow at parting, But on the gathered ties of many years: Each tender and each honourable feeling Will guard his heart. Oh, jealousy is but A shadow cast from vanity, which lain Would take the shape of love to hide its own Selfish deformity! Julian. Your confidence Is most misplaced, for I was present when Your wedded. Agnes. Gracious heaven, he lives!— I never will be yours, then why traduce The innocent—the absent. I confide Securely in his faith. Julian. I would have spared This pang, but I must vindicate my truth; He has sent back by me your farewell gifts— Know you this silken curl—this emerald ring? Agnes. It is my ring! The braid of hair I gave!— All else but this, oh God! I could have borne. Julian (discovering himself.) Oh, my own, pardon me!—look up, It is thy calls! He has not swerved Even in thought from thee—thou hast still been His hope, his solace. Lie not thus, my Love, Motionless on my bosom; but one look— One word—to say you can forgive A moment's doubt! Agnes., I can die happy. Julian. How pale she is! My life—my soul—revive! Why did I try a faith I should have known Spotless as the white dove. I cannot feel The beating of her heart. I'll kiss the colour Back to her cheek. Oh, God! her lip is ice— There is no breath upon it!— , thy is thy murderer! L.E.L.