ACTUS QUINTI, SCENA SECUNDA.
Respublica. Misericordia. Avarice. Adulation.
Resp. O Lord! hast Thou for ever closed up Thine ear?
Wilt Thou never more the desolate's prayer hear?
Wilt Thou still turn away Thy face from my distress?
Wilt Thou clean forsake me and leave me comfortless?
The secret sighs, and sobs, and prayers of mine heart,
Shall they not forever Thine eyes to me convert?
I grant that mine offences have so much deserved;
But for whom, save sinners, is this mercy reserved?
[Thou reservst it] so, which hitherto hath been just;
Despair, Lord! I will not; nor Thy goodness mistrust.
Lo[ok] down on my distress! and for Thy glory sake,
Though I be ill worthy it, mercy on me take!
Miser. Now will I speak to her.
Resp. Who maketh me afeard?
Miser. No, I will thee comfort: God hath thy prayer heard;
And now, Respublica, be of good hope and trust!
Resp. O Lord! now do I see that Thou art ever just.
Miser. I am sent to recomfort thee, Respublica!
Resp. O Lady Compassion! Misericordia!
Miser. What say ye to me? What, woman! can ye not speak?
I am come down, all your sorrows at once to break.
Speak, woman!