Before [115] Butler (his voice trembling). 1800, 1828, 1829.
Before [136] Butler (strides up and down in excessive agitation, then steps up to Octavio with resolved countenance). 1800, 1828, 1829.
Scene VI
Octavio and Max Piccolomini.
Octavio (advances to Max). I am going off, my son. [Receiving no answer he takes his hand.
My son, farewell.
Max. Farewell.
Octavio. Thou wilt soon follow me?
Max. I follow thee?
Thy way is crooked—it is not my way. [Octavio drops his hand, and starts back.
O, hadst thou been but simple and sincere,
Ne'er had it come to this—all had stood otherwise. 5
He had not done that foul and horrible deed,
The virtuous had retained their influence o'er him:
He had not fallen into the snares of villains.
Wherefore so like a thief, and thief's accomplice
Did'st creep behind him—lurking for thy prey? 10
O, unblest falsehood! Mother of all evil!
Thou misery-making demon, it is thou
That sink'st us in perdition. Simple truth,
Sustainer of the world, had saved us all!
Father, I will not, I cannot excuse thee! [15]
Wallenstein has deceived me—O, most foully!
But thou hast acted not much better.