Por. What dangers in those charming eyes appear! [Looking on the Empress.
How my old wounds are opened at this view, And in my murderer's presence bleed anew!
Max. I did expect your coming, to partake [To the Ladies.
The general gladness which my triumphs make. You did Porphyrius as a courtier know; But as a conqueror behold him now.
Ber. You know (I read it in your blushing face), [To Por.
To merit, better than receive a grace: And I know better silently to own, Than with vain words to pay your service done.
Por. Princes, like gods, reward ere we deserve; [Kneeling to kiss her hand.
And pay us, in permitting us to serve. O might I still grow here, and never move! [Lower.
Ber. How dangerous are these ecstacies of love! He shews his passion to a thousand eyes; He cannot stir, nor can I bid him rise. That word my heart refuses to my tongue! [Aside.
Max. Madam, you let the general kneel too long.