Osorio. Nearer and nearer! And I cannot stir!
Will no one hear these stifled groans, and wake me? [260]
He would have died to save me, and I kill'd him—
A husband and a father!
Maria. Some secret poison
Drinks up his spirit!
Osorio (fiercely recollecting himself). Let the eternal Justice
Prepare my punishment in the obscure world.
I will not bear to live—to live! O agony! [265]
And be myself alone, my own sore torment!
[The doors of the dungeon are burst open with a crash. Alhadra, Maurice, and the band of Morescoes enter.
Alhadra (pointing at Osorio). Seize first that man!
[The Moors press round.
Albert (rushing in among them). Draw thy sword, Maurice, and defend my brother.
[A scuffle, during which they disarm Maurice.
Osorio. Off, ruffians! I have flung away my sword.
Woman, my life is thine! to thee I give it. [270]
Off! he that touches me with his hand of flesh,
I'll rend his limbs asunder! I have strength
With this bare arm to scatter you like ashes!
[[595]]Alhadra. My husband——