Boab. Give wing to your desires, and let 'em fly,
Secure they cannot mount a pitch too high.
So bless me, Alha, both in peace and war,
As I accord, whate'er your wishes are.
Almanz. Emboldened by the promise of a prince, [Putting one knee to the ground.
I ask this lady now with confidence.
Boab. You ask the only thing I cannot grant. [The King and Abenamar look amazedly on each other.
But, as a stranger, you are ignorant
Of what by public fame my subjects know;
She is my mistress.
Aben. —And my daughter too.
Almanz. Believe, old man, that I her father knew:
What else should make Almanzor kneel to you?—
Nor doubt, sir, but your right to her was known:
For had you had no claim but love alone,
I could produce a better of my own.
Almah. [softly to him.]
Almanzor, you forget my last request:
Your words have too much haughtiness expressed.
Is this the humble way you were to move?
Almanz. [to her.]
I was too far transported by my love.
Forgive me; for I had not learned to sue
To any thing before, but heaven and you.—
Sir, at your feet, I make it my request— [To the King.
[First line kneeling: second, rising, and boldly.
Though, without boasting, I deserve her best;
For you her love with gaudy titles sought,
But I her heart with blood and dangers bought.
Boab. The blood, which you have shed in her defence,
Shall have in time a fitting recompence:
Or, if you think your services delayed,
Name but your price, and you shall soon be paid.
Almanz. My price!—why, king, you do not think you deal
With one who sets his services to sale?
Reserve your gifts for those who gifts regard;
And know, I think myself above reward.
Boab. Then sure you are some godhead; and our care
Must be to come with incense and with prayer.