 | Osman |  |
SCENE IV.
Royal Apartments.Osman sitting musing.
OSMAN.
E'er I repose, I'll try this charming Maid;
Her firm Adherence to the Cause of Virtue
Inflames my restless Soul with fierce Desire,
More pungent than the Scenes of foul Debauchery
Could ever raise i'th'most abandon'd Breast;
And I must compass her at all Events.
I'd willingly not thwart the Empire's Laws,
Which do inhibit Marriage to the Sultan;
But better they were cross'd, than I undone—
I'll offer her whate'er Ambition's Lust,
Whate'er unbounded Luxury can crave;
35
She's only qualified to grace my Throne,
And nuptial Rites shall constitute her Empress.
[Exit.
| Osman | |