Page:Miscellaneous Plays 1.pdf/409

Rh

Man might, at least, surveying the position And aspect of these times, in his own mind This plain and shrewd conjecture form. But not On such loose bottom do I ground my words; Mah'met himself hath sworn that your Valeria Shall at the head of his most favour'd wives

Hold thy detested tongue! for one word more Is instant death. Tempt me not with these hands, Which hath the symbols touch'd of blessed peace, To do a horrible act.

I but repeat that which the sultan hath In public said.

Forbear! forbear! I tell thee. There! there! Rodrigo: cast it from my reach: Let not a weapon be within my grasp, I dare speak to him now.—Ho! guards without!

Oh, mercy! mercy!