Por. But, since to all the world his crimes are known. And by himself the civil war's begun, Would you the advantage of the fight delay, If, striking first, you were to win the day?
Ber. I would, like Jews upon their sabbath, fall; And, rather than strike first, not strike at all.
Por. Against yourself you sadly prophecy: You either this divorce must seek, or die.
Ber. Then death from all my griefs shall set me free.
Por. And would you rather chuse your death, than me?
Ber. My earthly part—— Which is my tyrant's right, death will remove; I'll come all soul and spirit to your love. With silent steps I'll follow you all day, Or else before you, in the sun beams, play: I'll lead you thence to melancholy groves, And there repeat the scenes of our past loves: At night, I will within your curtains peep; With empty arms embrace you while you sleep: In gentle dreams I often will be by, And sweep along before your closing eye: All dangers from your bed I will remove; But guard it most from any future love: And when, at last, in pity, you will die, I'll watch your birth of immortality: Then, turtle-like, I'll to my mate repair, And teach you your first flight in open air. [Exit Berenice and Eration.
Por. She has but done what honour did require; Nor can I blame that love, which I admire. But then her death! I'll stand betwixt, it first shall pierce my heart: We will be stuck together on his dart. But yet the danger not so high does grow: I'll charge death first, perhaps repulse him too. But if, o'erpowered, I must be overcome, Forced back, I'll fight each inch into my tomb. [Exit.
ACT IV.
SCENE I.—An Indian cave.