Odm. Above the rest I judge one beauty rare, And may that beauty prove as kind to me, [He gives ALIBECH the wreath. As I am sure fair Alibech is she.
Mont. You, Guyomar, must next perform your part.
Guy. I want a garland, but I'll give a heart: My brother's pardon I must first implore, Since I with him fair Alibech adore.
Odm. That all should Alibech adore, 'tis true; But some respect is to my birthright due. My claim to her by eldership I prove.
Guy. Age is a plea in empire, not in love.
Odm. I long have staid for this solemnity, To make my passion public.
Guy. So have I.
Odm. But from her birth my soul has been her slave;
My heart received the first wounds which she save:
I watched the early glories of her eyes,
As men for daybreak watch the eastern skies.
Guy. It seems my soul then moved the quicker pace; Yours first set out, mine reached her in the race.
Mont. Odmar, your choice I cannot disapprove;
Nor justly, Guyomar, can blame your love.
To Alibech alone refer your suit,
And let her sentence finish your dispute.