Page:Dramas 1.pdf/323

In timid beauty, after April showers,
Then swelling, bursting, spreading its soft leaves
To the free air, more fragrant than before.
Yes, I am happy, gentle Mencia,
In spite of fate, if thou still carest for me.

MENCIA.

This is no time for words like these. I dread

Ev'n but to look upon thee, wretched man!
Take this disguise; it will insure escape.
There is a faithful friend who waits without,
And by the postern will direct thy flight.
Speak not, but throw these weeds about thee quickly;

The time is precious. (Holding out garments which she bears over her arm.)

ANTONIO.

Thou dread'st to look upon me, yet thou comest

To save my life—to save a murderer's life?

MENCIA.

I said not so in pity of thy state;

That bloody deed I know hath been the act
Of frenzied passion: in some foreign land
Live and repent: Heaven grant thee grace for this!
Let not man's hand, the brand of public shame,
Be on thy wretched head.