Leon. Here, take it, sir, and with it pierce my heart: [Presenting his sword to his Father upon his knees.
You have done more in taking my Palmyra.
You are my father; therefore I submit.
Poly. Keep him from any thing he may design
Against his life, while the first fury lasts;
And now perform what I commanded you.
Leon. In vain; if sword and poison be denied me,
I'll hold my breath and die.
Palm. Farewell, my last Leonidas; yet live,
I charge you, live, 'till you believe me dead.
I cannot die in peace, if you die first;
If life's a blessing, you shall have it last.
Poly. Go on with her, and lead him after me.
Enter Argaleon hastily, with Hermogenes.
Arga. I bring you, sir, such news as must amaze you,
And such as will prevent you from an action,
Which would have rendered all your life unhappy. [Hermogenes kneels.
Poly. Hermogenes, you bend your knees in vain,
My doom's already past.
Her. I kneel not for Palmyra, for I know
She will not need my prayers; but for myself:
With a feigned tale I have abused your ears,
And, therefore, merit death: but since, unforced,
I first accuse myself, I hope your mercy.
Poly. Haste to explain your meaning.