Val. Hold! hold! she never shall be his!
Riche. Then heed the counsel I have given thee.
Val. It is too late.
Riche. A better chance awaits thee;
She meets the foe!—meets!—when shall she return?
Val. Dip my hand in blood of her! I cannot.
Riche. Nor hast thou need. Du Nois must be detained:
My former counsel take. Thou knowst the plan.
Urge the attack—lead where escape is none!
Val. My soul recoils at such a damned deed!
Riche. Then play the gentler part—attune the lyre,
Forthwith prepare thy gayest suit—be first
To hail her bride of Count Du Nois! I leave thee,
Fully to enjoy the blissful prospect.
[Exit Richemont.
Val. Fierce madness fires my brain! Assist me, Heaven,
Or, better still, ye fiercest spirits aid me,
Bride of Du Nois! myself despised, or worse,
Pitied perhaps by both! held in contempt
By Richemont too, and taunted for my weakness!
Sooner shall earth engulph, or lightnings blast me!
Farewell remorse!—farewell to pity!