Page:Miscellaneous Plays 1.pdf/401

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A TRAGEDY.

381

Of fellowship; prepar'd, in virtue's strength,
Nobly to fight on earth, or meet in heaven.

OTHUS.

Yes, Constantine, we to each other will

True brothers prove, and to our noble chief
Devoted followers, whate'er betide.
What say ye, valiant friends?

OMNES.

All, all of us!

CONSTANTINE.

I know you will, full well, I know you will.

Oh, that in earth it had been granted me
Your gen'rous love to've recompens'd! alas!
Ye can but share with me———

OMNES.

No other recompense,

But sharing fates with thee, our noble chief,
Do we desire, and on thy royal hand
Here will we seal it.

CONSTANTINE (eagerly preventing them as they are about to kneel and kiss his hands).

Forbear! forbear! within these sacred walls

Bend before worthless man the humble knee!
Fye, let not such shame be!
Am I your chief? then be it shewn in this,
That to the mighty Majesty of heaven