Cort. Life of my soul, do not my absence mourn:
But chear your heart in hopes of my return.
[To CYD.
Your noble father's life shall be my care;
And both your brothers I'm obliged to spare.
Cyd. Fate makes you deaf, while I in vain implore;—
My heart forebodes, I ne'er shall see you more:
I have but one request,—when I am dead,
Let not my rival to your love succeed.
Cort. Fate will be kinder than your fears foretell; Farewell, my dear.
Cyd.—A long and last farewell: —So eager to employ the cruel sword? Can you not one, not one last look afford!
Cort. I melt to womanish tears, and if I stay,
I find my love, my courage will betray;
Yon tower will keep you safe, but be so kind
To your own life, that none may entrance find.
Cyd. Then lead me there.—[He leads her. For this one minute of your company, I go, methinks, with some content to die.
[Exeunt CORTEZ, VASQUEZ, PIZARRO, and CYDARIA.
Alm. Farewell, O too much lov'd, since lov'd in vain! What dismal fortune does for me remain! Night and despair my fatal footsteps guide; That chance may give the death which he denied. [Exit.
CORTEZ, VASQUEZ, PIZARRO, and SPANIARDS return again.
Cort. All I hold dear I trust to your defence; [To Piz. Guard her, and on your life, remove not hence. [Exeunt CORTEZ and VASQUEZ. Piz. I'll venture that.— The Gods are good; I'll leave her to their care, Steal from my post, and in the plunder share. [Exit.