Alib. Bestow, base man, thy idle threats elsewhere,
My mother's daughter knows not how to fear.
Since, Guyomar, I must not be thy bride,
Death shall enjoy what is to thee denied.
Odm. Then take thy wish—
Guy. Hold, Odmar, hold: My right in Alibech I will resign; Rather than see her die, I'll see her thine.
Alib. In vain thou wouldst resign, for I will be,
Even when thou leav'st me, constant still to thee:
That shall not save my life: Wilt thou appear
Fearful for her, who for herself wants fear?
Odm. Her love to him shows me a surer way:
I by her love her virtue must betray.—[Aside.
Since, Alibech, you are so true a wife, [To her.
'Tis in your power to save your husband's life:
The gods, by me, your love and virtue try;
For both will suffer, if you let him die.
Alib. I never can believe you will proceed To such a black, and execrable deed.
Odm. I only threatened you; but could not prove So much a fool, to murder what I love: But in his death I some advantage see: Worse than it is I'm sure it cannot be. If you consent, you with that gentle breath Preserve his life: If not, behold his death. [Holds his sword to his breast.
Alib. What shall I do!
Guy. What, are your thoughts at strife
About a ransom to preserve my life?
Though to save yours I did my interest give,
Think not, when you were his, I meant to live.
Alib. O let him be preserved by any way: But name not the foul price which I must pay. [To ODM.