_Cyd_. O name not death to me! you fright me so,
That with the fear I shall prevent the blow:
I know, your mercy's more than to destroy
A thing so young, so innocent as I.
_Cort_. Whence can proceed thy cruel thirst of blood,
Ah, barbarous woman? Woman! that's too good,
Too mild for thee: There's pity in that name,
But thou hast lost thy pity with thy shame.
_Alm_. Your cruel words have pierced me to the heart;
But on my rival I'll revenge my smart.
_Cort_. Oh stay your hand; and, to redeem my fault,
I'll speak the kindest words--
That tongue e'er uttered, or that heart e'er thought.
Dear--lovely--sweet--
_Alm_. This but offends me more;
You act your kindness on Cydaria's score.
_Cyd_. For his dear sake let me my life receive.
_Alm_. Fool, for his sake alone you must not live:
Revenge is now my joy; he's not for me,
And I'll make sure he ne'er shall be for thee.
_Cyd_. But what's my crime?
_Alm_. 'Tis loving where I love.
_Cyd_. Your own example does my act approve.
_Alm_. 'Tis such a fault I never can forgive.
_Cyd_. How can I mend, unless you let me live?
I yet am tender, young, and full of fear,
And dare not die, but fain would tarry here.
_Cort_. If blood you seek, I will my own resign:
O spare her life, and in exchange take mine!
_Alm_.
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