Aug. It seems the gods take little care
Of human things below,
When even our sufferings here they do not know.
Merc. Not unknowing came I down,
Disloyal town!
236 Speak! didst not thou
Forsake thy faith, and break thy nuptial vow?
Aug. Ah, 'tis too true! too true!
But what could I, unthinking city, do?
Faction swayed me,
Zeal allured me,
Both assured me.
Both betrayed me!
Merc. Suppose me sent
Thy Albion to restore,—
Can'st thou repent?
Aug. My falsehood I deplore!
Tham. Thou seest her mourn, and I
With all my waters will her tears supply.
Merc. Then by some loyal deed regain
Thy long-lost reputation,
To wash away the stain
That blots a noble nation,
And free thy famous town again
From force of usurpation.
Chorus of all. We'll wash away the stain
That blots a noble nation,
And free this famous town again
From force of usurpation.[Dance of the Followers of Mercury.
Aug. Behold Democracy and Zeal appear;
She, that allured my heart away,
And he, that after made a prey.
Merc. Resist, and do not fear!