Page:Miscellaneous Plays 1.pdf/81

OFFICER.

What may this mean? let us pass on: we stop not

Whate'er betide.

RAYNER.

Nay, but you do: for here there is a power

Stronger than law or judgment. Give me way:
It is permitted me by ev'ry sense
Of human sympathy, were I ev'n bound
With chains tenfold enlock'd.(Bending over Elizabeth.)
Thou loveliest, and thou dearest! O thou part
Of my most inmost self! art thou thus stricken?

Falls this stroke on thee? (Kneeling down and endeavouring to support her, but finding himself prevented by his chain.)

Is there not strength in the soul's agony

To burst e'en bands of iron. (Trying furiously to burst his fetters, but cannot; then with a subdued voice)

Am I indeed a base condemned wretch,

Cut off from ev'ry claim and tie of nature?
(Turning to the officer.)
Thou who dost wear the law's authority,
May it not be permitted for the love
Of piteous charity?—Shall strangers' hands
Whilst I am thus—O, do not let it be!

OFFICER.

No, no! move on: it cannot be permitted.