Page:The Corsair (Byron).djvu/83

 "While baffled—weakened by this fatal fray—

"Watch'd—followed—he were then an easier prey;

"But once cut off—the remnant of his band

"Embark their wealth, and seek a safer strand."

"Gulnare!—if for each drop of blood a gem

"Were offered rich as Stamboul's diadem;

"If for each hair of his a massy mine

"Of virgin ore should supplicating shine;

"If all our Arab tales divulge or dream

"Of wealth were here—that gold should not redeem!

"It had not now redeem'd a single hour—

"But that I know him fetter'd, in my power;

"And, thirsting for revenge, I ponder still

"On pangs that longest rack—and latest kill.

"Nay, Seyd!—I seek not to restrain thy rage,

"Too justly moved for mercy to assuage;

"My thoughts were only to secure for thee

"His riches—thus released, he were not free:

"Disabled, shorn of half his might and band,

"His capture could but wait thy first command."