False, and my mother was to blame, and I

To pity, whom all spoke of, none addressed:

I was the chattel that had caused a crime.

I stood mute,—those who tangled must untie

The embroilment. Pietro cried, "Withdraw, my child!

She is not helpful to the sacrifice

At this stage,—do you want the victim by

While you discuss the value of her blood?

For her sake, I consent to hear you talk:

Go, child, and pray God help the innocent!"