When you command, and not before,
Then duty shall me shield.
Virginius. Ah gods, that rule and reign in heavens, in seas, in floods, in lands,
Two couples such, I surely deem, you never made with hands.
Ah gods, why do ye not compel each dame the like to show,
And every imp of her again her duty thus to know?
I cannot stay my tongue from talk, I needs must call my dear.
O spouse, well-met, and daughter too, what news? how do you cheer?
Mater. O dear Virginius, joy to me, O peerless spouse and mate,
In health, I praise the gods, I am, and joyful for thy state.