Page:Passions 2.pdf/363

Rh

Ethw. And so thou art. Thou rear'st thy stately neck, And, whilst I list, thou flarest in men's eyes A gorgeous queen; but unto me thou art I do command thee, drink it to the dregs.

''Qu. (subdued, and lifting the cup to her lips.)'' Then be convinced how wrongful are thy thoughts.

''Ethw. (preventing her.)'' Forbear, I am too slightly mov'd to anger, I should have known the support of thy state Is all too closely with my fortune link'd. Give me the cup. Thou say'st it soothes the mind? If I, indeed, could rest—(tastes it.) It tastes not well; It is a bitter drug.

Qu. Then give it me again: I'll hie to Dwina, And get from her that which shall make it sweet.

Ethw. Thou shalt not go and leave me thus alone.

Qu. I'll soon return again, and all around thee Is light as noon-day.

Ethw. Nay, nay, good wife! it rises now before me In the full blaze of light.

Qu. Ha! what mean'st thou?

Ethw. The faint and shadowy forms, That in obscurity were wont to rise