Page:Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons (1793, volume 2).djvu/156

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when I think where and in whose hands I leave you, I suffer torments worse than death can inflict." "Let not the situation of the lady grieve you (said the generous Turk;) though I pursue an employment I am weary of, I never injure women; if she has friends, they may recover her." "O, Matilda! (said the dying man) I will not deceive you, your death would to me have been the greatest comfort; I cannot bear the idea, another should possess you. Swear to me (added he, eagerly) that you will become a nun—that you will take the veil." She was terrified by his vehemence; and though she both wished and designed it, hesitated. The captain said, "How dare you, so near death, compel an oath foreign to her heart; no such vow shall pass in my hearing, be your affinity to her what it may." "No, Mr. Weimar" (answered she) I will not swear, though it is at present my intention so to do." "Then I am dumb (said he;) I will not be the victim to procure happiness for others."