Page:Manzoni - The Betrothed, 1834.djvu/96

 Do you not fear the law, which is always to be had against the poor? And, besides, how many arms would be raised at a word!"

"I fear nothing," said Renzo; "the villain is well protected, dog that he is! but no matter. Patience and resolution! and the time will come. Yes! justice shall be done! I will free the country! People will bless me! Yes, yes."

The horror which Lucy felt at this explicit declaration of his purpose inspired her with new resolution. With a tearful countenance, but determined voice, she said to Renzo, "It can no longer be of any consequence to you, that I should become yours; I promised myself to a youth who had the fear of God in his heart; but a man who had oncewere you safe from the law, were you secure from vengeance, were you the son of ofof [sic] a king"

"Well!" cried Renzo, in a voice of uncontrollable passion, "well! I shall not have you, then; but neither shall he; of that you may"

"For pity's sake, do not talk thus; do not talk so fiercely!" said Lucy imploringly.

"You to implore me!" said he, somewhat appeased. "You! who will do nothing for me! What proof do you give me of your affection? Have I not supplicated in vain? Have I been able to obtain"

"Yes, yes," replied Lucy, hastily, "I will go to the curate's to-morrow; now, if you wish it. Only be yourself again; I will go."

"Do you promise me?" said Renzo, softening immediately.

"I promise."

"Well, I am satisfied."

"God be praised!" said Agnes, much relieved.

"I have promised you," said Lucy, with an accent of timid reproach, "but you have also promised me to refer it to Father Christopher."

"Ha! will you now draw back?" said Renzo.

"No, no," said Lucy, again alarmed, "no, no, I have promised, and will perform. But you have compelled me to it by your own impetuosity. God forbid that"