Queen. My resolution, grounded on his service,
Ties more than formal contracts.
Asc. I'll not urge
You farther, but by these, which never yet
Found passage through my eyes, not he nor all
Mankind, contracted to one heart, can harbour
A love that equals that I burn with. Madam,
Think on't; and let your thoughts find out that path
Which leads to mercy. [Exit Ascanio.
Queen. How I am dazzled,
Plac'd on a precipice by tyrant Love!
The king is noble, and his merits claim
A retribution great as I can make.
He loves me, and yields only to Florentio,
In the priority of service. My sad soul!
Enter Florentio, looks on the Queen, sighs, and goes in again.
Between these two I might stand distracted!
But, virtue, guide me: nor can I e'er stray
While that directs, and honour leads the way. [Exeunt.
FOOTNOTES:
[285] [Old copy, in.]