You hate him, don't you, lady!
Maria. Nay, fear me not! my heart is sad for you.
Alhadra. These fell Inquisitors, these sons of blood!
As I came on, his face so madden'd me
That ever and anon I clutch'd my dagger [190]
And half unsheathed it.
Maria. Be more calm, I pray you.
Alhadra. And as he stalk'd along the narrow path
Close on the mountain's edge, my soul grew eager.
'Twas with hard toil I made myself remember
That his foul officers held my babes and husband. [195]
To have leapt upon him with a Tyger's plunge
And hurl'd him down the ragged precipice,
O—it had been most sweet!
Maria. Hush, hush! for shame.
Where is your woman's heart?
Alhadra. O gentle lady!
You have no skill to guess my many wrongs, [200]
Many and strange. Besides I am a Christian,
And they do never pardon, 'tis their faith!
Maria. Shame fall on those who so have shown it to thee!
Alhadra. I know that man; 'tis well he knows not me!
Five years ago, and he was the prime agent. [205]
Five years ago the Holy Brethren seized me.