Albert (with majesty and tenderness). Does then this thin disguise impenetrably [235]
Hide Albert from thee? Toil and painful wounds,
And long imprisonment in unwholesome dungeons,
Have marr'd perhaps all trace and lineament
Of what I was! But chiefly, chiefly, brother!
My anguish for thy guilt. Spotless Maria, [240]
I thought thee guilty too! Osorio, brother!
Nay, nay, thou shalt embrace me!

Osorio (drawing back and gazing at Albert with a countenance expressive at once of awe and terror). Touch me not!
Touch not pollution, Albert!—I will die!

[He attempts to fall on his sword. Albert and Maria struggle with him.

Albert. We will invent some tale to save your honour.
Live, live, Osorio!

Maria. You may yet be happy. 245

Osorio (looking at Maria). O horror! Not a thousand years in heaven
Could recompose this miserable heart,
Or make it capable of one brief joy.
Live! live!—why yes! 'Twere well to live with you—
[[594]] For is it fit a villain should be proud? [250]
My brother! I will kneel to you, my brother! [Throws himself at Albert's feet.
Forgive me, Albert!—Curse me with forgiveness!

Albert. Call back thy soul, my brother! and look round thee.
Now is the time for greatness. Think that Heaven——

Maria. O mark his eye! he hears not what you say. [255]

Osorio (pointing at vacancy). Yes, mark his eye! there's fascination in it.
Thou said'st thou didst not know him. That is he!
He comes upon me!

Albert (lifting his eye to heaven). Heal, O heal him, Heaven!