90
AMYNTAS.
Were it not for thy stature, I'd suppose
Thou just hadst left the cradle: dost thou wish
She would in terms express declare her passion?
But surely thou must know the declaration
Would ill agree with Sylvia's bashful nature.
What circumstance would more offend her pride,
Than if she knew you harboured such desire;
And yet you'd rather perish than offend her?
If she would rather that you should be happy
By artful theft, or bolder violence,
To you what difference is there how you win
Your happiness, provided you are happy?
Thou just hadst left the cradle: dost thou wish
She would in terms express declare her passion?
But surely thou must know the declaration
Would ill agree with Sylvia's bashful nature.
What circumstance would more offend her pride,
Than if she knew you harboured such desire;
And yet you'd rather perish than offend her?
If she would rather that you should be happy
By artful theft, or bolder violence,
To you what difference is there how you win
Your happiness, provided you are happy?
AMYNTAS.
Who can assure me that my Sylvia wishes
I'd undertake this love's knight-errantry?
Who can assure me that my Sylvia wishes
I'd undertake this love's knight-errantry?
THYRSIS.
Thou inconsistent man!—Bewitching passion!
Thy fascination dwindles manly reason
To the low, captious fancy of a child!
Again I tell thee, love is kept alive
By dangers, and by difficulties;
Thou inconsistent man!—Bewitching passion!
Thy fascination dwindles manly reason
To the low, captious fancy of a child!
Again I tell thee, love is kept alive
By dangers, and by difficulties;
With-
