Ara. I once was informed of a large reward for the discovery of a female Christian, and, with boundless hopes, asked an interview with the messenger; but found, on inquiry, I could not answer his description, as he secretly informed me it was the Sultan who made the search for one he himself had known and dearly loved.
Has. Good Heaven!—[Aside.]—You then conclude your husband dead?
Ara. I do;—or, like me, by some mischance, taken with the other party, and having no friend to plead his cause before the Emperor, whom he served——
Has. I'll plead it—should I ever chance to find him—but, ere we can hope for other kindness, you must appear before the Sultan—thank him for the favour which you now decline, and tell the cause why you cannot accept it.
Ara. Alas! almost worn out with sorrow—an object of affliction as I am—in pity, excuse me—present my thanks—my humble gratitude—but pardon my attendance.
Has. Nay, you must go—it is necessary—I will accompany you to him.—Retire a moment; but when I send, be ready.
Ara. I shall obey.
[She bows obediently, and exit.
[As Haswell comes down, Elvirus places
himself in his path—Haswell stops, looks
at him with an austere earnestness, which
Elvirus observing, turns away his face.
Elv. Nay, reproach me—I can bear your anger, but do not let me meet your eye—Oh! it is more awful, now I know who you are, than if you had kingdoms to disperse, or could deal instant death.—[Haswell looks on him with a manly firmness, then walks on, Elvirus following him.]—I do not plead for my father now.—Since what has passed, I only ask forgiveness.