Bates. Like villains rather—But you may depend upon us.
Stu. Like what we are then—You make no answer, Dawson—Compassion, I suppose, has seized you.
Daw. No; I have disclaimed it. My answer is Bates's—You may depend upon me.
Stu. Consider the reward! Riches and security! I have sworn to divide with you to the last shilling. So here we separate, till we meet in prison. Remember your instructions, and be men.
[Exeunt.
SCENE V. changes to a prison.
Beverley is discovered sitting. After a short pause, he starts up, and comes forward.
Bev. Why, there's an end then. I have judged deliberately, and the result is death. How the self-murderer's account may stand, I know not. But this I know; the load of hateful life oppresses me too much. The horrors of my soul are more than I can bear—(Offers to kneel) Father of mercy!—I cannot pray—Despair has laid his iron hand upon me, and sealed me for perdition—Conscience! conscience! thy clamours are too loud—Here's that shall silence them. (Takes a vial out of his pocket, and looks at it.) Thou art most friendly to the miserable. Come then, thou cordial for sick minds! come to my heart! (Drinks) O, that the grave would bury memory as well as body! For if the soul sees and feels the sufferings of those dear ones it leaves behind, the Everlasting has no vengeance to torment it deeper—I'll think no more on't—Reflection comes too late. Once there was a time for't—but now 'tis past—Who's there?
SCENE VI.
Enter Jarvis.