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My uncurb'd passions have, alas! too oft
Vexation added to that burden'd heart
I should have cheer'd and lighten'd: on my head
Rests all the blame that e'er between us pass'd,
And I alone have need to be forgiven.

(They weep on one another's necks without speaking, when an alarm bell is heard at a distance, and Constantine breaks suddenly from her.)

CONSTANTINE.

It is the 'larum of my farther watch.

VALERIA.

I scarcely heard it: art thou sure of it?

(A second alarm bell heard nearer.)

CONSTANTINE.

And hark! a nearer tower repeats the sound.

The enemy's in motion.—I must arm,
And instantly.

VALERIA.

Then let me be with thee till the last moment.

I have a holy relick of great power;
It is, I trust, worth all thine arms beside;
And from this hand of love thou shalt receive it.

CONSTANTINE (smiling sorrowfully).

Thanks, sweet Valeria! from thy hand of love