Ev'n oaths upon the holy reliques sworn,
The holy church annuls: it will release you.
Then say not you are bound.
KING.
The church can loose, as thou, no doubt, hast learnt
From sacred books and this good Father's lore;
But, solemnly, upon Henriquez's sword
I've pledged a prince's word—a soldier's honour,
From which nought can release me, but the will
And free consent of him to whom 't is pledged.
Hie, therefore, to thy Lord: kneel at his feet,
And may Heaven give thee power to touch his heart.
LEONORA.
By Heaven and man abandon'd!—Dismal doom!
And canst command what I would beg in vain;
Command him, as his royal Liege and Master,
That he release thee from this fatal pledge.
A king, and not obey'd! deceitful shadow!
Doth not thy power o'er all things reign supreme?
