THE BRIDE: A DRAMA.
291
MONTEBESA.
But not Rasinga.—It is Samarkoon;
I know his rapid tread.—Be wise; be silent;
For he awhile must live in ignorance.
Enter Samarkoon, and Sabawatté retires to some distance.
A happy morning to you, youthful kinsman!
SAMARKOON.
Oft leads to woeful eve, ay, woeful noon.
MONTEBESA.
Why dost thou look both sorrowful and stern?
SAMARKOON.
Be aught but a malignant, hateful tale,
On mere conjecture founded. Answer me,
If thou know'st nothing of a num'rous train
In preparation, by Rasinga's orders,
To fetch home to his house a fair young bride?
There's no such thing.—Speak—speak! I will believe thee;
For if to thee unknown, there's no such thing.— [A pause, he looking inquisitively in her face.]
Thou dost not speak; thou dost not answer me;