Page:Miscellaneous Plays 1.pdf/417

Rh

But turn not from me angrily. My mind, Ere now, consider'd has the character, The faith, the power of Mahomet.— Frown not.— Valeria thou art fair.—Nay, do not frown!

What dost thou say? hast thou until this moment Reserv'd for me this base degradingNo: Torn and defaced by every hated form Of outward grace! it is our curse, our shame! (Tearing her hair violently.)

O be not thus!—forgive a hasty thought! Think how a doating husband is distracted, Who knows too well a lawless victor's power.

What is his power? it naught regardeth me.

Alas! the frowns of a detesting bride Deter him not!

But will he wed the dead?