University of Virginia Library

SCENE VII.

The Caaba.
Enter Mahomet and Caab.
Maho.
Caab, my cloak—henceforth it is thine own—
An honourable badge of our affection!
Thy observation's just; there's no sure footing
On the loose warrant of this giddy boy.

Caab.
No true dependence.

Maho.
Did he gorge our posset?

Caab.
I saw it in his lips.

Maho.
'Tis well—there's one provided—and for t'other,
Rather than fail, myself will be the surety
Of his eternal rest—Do thou and Omar
Keep near, and wait the issue.

Caab.
Yet, be cautious—

Maho.
Fear not—Away.
[Exit Caab.
Sopheian once removed,
The force of the remaining world can't lift
Another bar like him to my ambition—
What's this I feel—this new intruder here?
Who cries, Forbear!—and would erect himself
Against our great supremacy of reason?
I'll none of thee, thou meddling counsellor!
Away—This is the hour—
Behind yon altar—there I may retire,
And watch the prompt occasion.

[Goes behind the altar.