They may have pity on thee; but from me
It were an act against the sense of nature.
ELIZABETH.
At the proud feet of power, and been rejected:
What injury can reach a dying man?
Can his few hours of breathing poise the scales
'Gainst the whole term of a man's reckon'd life
In youth's best strength?
COUNTESS ZATERLOO.
And, were it true, hope ends not but with life;
Heaven only knows who is a dying man.
ELIZABETH.
Againd all other feelings but your own!
(Clasplng the Countess' knees and kissing her hand.)
Sweet lady! gentle lady! dearest lady!
O be not ruthless to a soul bow'd down
In extreme wretchedness!
COUNTESS ZATERLOO.
Has he for whom thou plead'st from out o' thyself
Receiv'd his being? press'd with infant lips
Thy yearning bosom? smiled upon thy knees,
