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51 Diph.This were a Night indeed to do it in; The King hath sent for her.

Mel.She shall perform it then; go, Diphilus, And take from this good man, my worthy friend, The Fort; he'll give it thee.

Diph.Have you got that?

Cal.Art thou of the same breed? Canst thou deny This to the king too?

Diph.With a confidence As great as his.

Cal.Faith, like enough.

Mel.Away, and use him kindly.

Cal.Touch not me; I hate the whole strain. If thou follow me, A great way off, I'll give thee up the fort; And hang yourselves.

Mel.Be gone.

Diph.He's finely wrought.

Mel.This is a Night, in spight of Astronomers, To do the deed in; I will wash the stain That rests upon our House, off with his Blood.

Amin.Melantius, now assist me: If thou be'st That which thou say'st, assist me. I have lost All my distempers, and have found a rage So pleasing! Help me.

Mel.Who can see him thus, And not swear vengeance?—What's the matter, friend?

Amin.Out with thy sword; and, hand in hand with me, Rush to the chamber of this hated king: And sink him, with the weight of all his sins, To hell for ever.

Mel.'Twere a rash attempt, Not to be done with safety. Let your reason Plot your revenge, and not your passion.

Amin.If thou refusest me in these extremes, Thou art no friend: He sent for her to me; By Heaven, to me, myself! And, I must tell you, I love her, as a stranger; there is worth In that vile woman, worthy things, Melantius; And she repents. I'll do't myself alone, Though I be slain. Farewel.

Mel.He'll overthrow My whole design with madness.—Amintor, Think what thou dost: I dare as much as Valour; But 'tis the king, the king, the King, Amintor, With whom thou fightest!—I know he's honest, And this will work with him.

Amin.I cannot tell What thou hast said; but thou hast charm'd my Sword Out