ROSAURA. Oh, Heaven!
SIGISMUND. I say,
Loose it, old dotard, grim and gaunt and gray,
Or by another death
[They struggle.]
I'll crush you in my arms while you have breath.
ROSAURA. Quick! quick! they slay
Clotaldo, help! oh, help!
[ASTOLFO enters at this moment, and CLOTALDO falls at his feet; he stands between them.]
ASTOLFO. This strange affray,
What can it mean, magnanimous Prince? would you
So bright a blade imbrue
In blood that age already doth congeal?
Back to its sheath return the shining steel.
SIGISMUND. Yes, when it is bathed red
In his base blood.
ASTOLFO. This threatened life hath fled
For sanctuary to my feet;
I must protect it in that poor retreat.
SIGISMUND. Protect your own life, then, for in this way,
Striking at it, I will the grudge repay
I owe you for the past.