University of Virginia Library

SCENE IV.

Tancred, Almida, Sophia. Knights.
Almida running to Tancred with precipitation.
ALMIDA.
Thou god-like youth!
Sole master of my fate; oh! at thy feet
No let me kneel, it is not sure beneath me.
Tancred eyes her, but turns aside.
Why dost thou shun me? who can blame my transports?
The warm effusion of a grateful heart!
Wing'd by impatience, I outflew my father.
I dare not call thee by that name ador'd,
Or speak the secret transports of my soul:
Why is thy eye turn'd from me? gracious heaven!
Cannot I see thee in this fatal spot,
But watch'd, surrounded by that hated crew.
[looking round.
Dumb consternation hangs upon thy brow!
I dare not speak more freely; this constraint—
Why that averted look? Thou hear'st me not.

TANCRED.
[with a voice faltering and interrupted by sighs.
Return—comfort your father, whom I honour—
I'm summon'd hence by more important cares!
To you, to him, I have fulfill'd my duty,
And am rewarded—too much gratitude
May be a burden—I relieve you from it—
Your heart is free—bestow it as you please—
Live happy—whilst I seek death—farewell—
Exit Tancred.