Page:Passions 2.pdf/159

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It hath a wond'rous charm: the breast that wears it No change of soft affection ever knows.

Ethw. (receiving it with a smile.) I'll wear it, Bertha. (Trumpet sounds.) Hark! it calls me hence.

Berth. O go not yet! here is another gift. This ring, enrich'd with stone of basilisk, Whenever press'd by the kind wearer's hand, Presents the giver's image to his mind. Wilt thou not wear it?

''Ethw. (receiving it)'' Yes, and press it too.

Berth. And in this purse—(taking out a purse.)

Ethw. What! still another charm? (laughing.) Thou simple maid! Dost thou believe that witched geer like this Hath power a lover faithful to retain, More than thy gentle self?

Berth.Nay, laugh but wear them.

Ethw. I will, my love, since thou wilt have it so. (Putting them in his breast.) Here are they lodged, and cursed be the hand That plucks them forth! And now receive my pledge. It is a jewel of no vulgar worth: (ties it on her arm.) Wear it and think of me. But yet, belike, It must be steep'd into some wizard's pot, Or have some mystic rhyming mutter'd o'er it, Ere it will serve the turn.

''Berth. (pressing the jewel on her arm.)'' O no! right well I feel 'twill do without it.