Page:Miscellaneous Plays 1.pdf/415

After the course of twelve revolving moons,
Should be the sov'reign lord; and he replied,
In plain and simple words, thy lord and husband.

CONSTANTINE.

And nam'd he Constantine?

VALERIA.

What other name but that of Constantine

Could to these appellations be conjoin'd?
Thou turnest from me with perturbed looks:
Thou shalt not turn away: tell me! O, tell me!
What sudden thought is this that troubles thee?

(Catching hold of him eagerly as he turns from her.)

CONSTANTINE.

Ask not; Oh, do not ask! 'tis pass'd already,

As shoots a glaring meteor 'thwart the night,
Frightful but hasty.

VALERIA.

Thou must tell it me.

CONSTANTINE.

Distract me not.

VALERIA.

Nay, nay, but thou must tell me.

What other name but that of Constantine
Could to my lord and husband joined be?