Herm. You please me; I shall die the sooner.
Eub. No; could I live an age, and still be racked,
I still would keep the secret. [As they are going off,
Enter Leonidas, guarded.
Leon. Oh, whither do you hurry innocence!
If you have any justice, spare their lives;
Or, if I cannot make you just, at least
I'll teach you to more purpose to be cruel.
Palm. Alas, what does he seek!
Leon. Make me the object of your hate and vengeance:
Are these decrepid bodies, worn to ruin,
Just ready of themselves to fall asunder.
And to let drop the soul,—
Are these fit subjects for a rack and tortures?
Where would you fasten any hold upon them?
Place pains on me,—united fix them here,—
I have both youth, and strength, and soul to bear them;
And, if they merit death, then I much more,
Since 'tis for me they suffer.
Herm. Heaven forbid
We should redeem our pains, or worthless lives,
By our exposing yours.
Eub. Away with us. Farewell, sir:
I only suffer in my fears for you.
Arga. So much concerned for him! Then my [Aside.
Suspicion's true. [Whispers the King.
Palm. Hear yet my last request for poor Leonidas,
Or take my life with his.