Por. One kiss from this fair hand can be no sin;— ask not that you gave to Maximin. In full reward of all the pains I've past, Give me but one.
Ber. Then let it be your last.
Por. 'Tis gone! Like soldiers prodigal of their arrears, One minute spends the pay of many years. Let but one more be added to the sum, And pay at once for all my pains to come.
Ber. Unthrifts will starve, if we beforehand give: [Pulling back her hand.
I'll see you shall have just enough to live.
Enter Erotion.
Ero. Madam, the emperor is drawing near; And comes, they say, to seek Porphyrius here.
Ber. Alas!
Por. I will not ask what he intends; My life, or death, alone on you depends.
Ber. I must withdraw; but must not let him know [Aside.