Page:Passions 2.pdf/337

Rh

Her. Oh, Ethelbert! thou smil'st on me! alas! It is a dismal smile! thou art the victim! Thou shalt not die; the lot of right is mine. A shade of human weakness cross'd my soul, Such as before, not in the horrid fields Of crimson slaughter did I ever feel; But it is past; now I can bravely die, And I will have my right.

''Eth. (pushing him affectionately away.)'' Away, my son! It is as it should be.

Her. O if thou wilt entreat me as a man, Nor slur me with contempt! I do beseech thee Upon my bended knee! (kneeling.) O if thou diest, I of all living things most wretched am!

Eth. Be temperate, my son! thou art reserv'd For that which the warm strength of active youth Can best perform. O take him from me, friends! Now, my brave friends, we have together fought A noble warfare; I am call'd away; Let me in kind and true affection leave you.

''Thanes. (speaking together.)'' Alas, thou art our father and our friend! Alas, that thou should'st meet this dismal end!

Eth. Ay, true indeed, it is a dismal end To mortal feeling; yet within my breast Blest hope and love, and heaven-ward confidence, With human frailty so combined are, That I do feel a wild and trembling pleasure.