 | The Viceroy |  |
SCENE VI.
GUARDS,(behind the scene.)
You must not pass us; 'tis the Viceroy's order.
CONSTANTIA,
(behind the scene.)
Ye cruel guards! ye shall not force me back:
Affliction has a sacred claim to enter
The residence of power.
Entering with an Officer.
Thanks! gallant soldier!
Who hast compassion for a woman's woes!
Now guide me to the Viceroy!
OFFICER.
Lovely mourner
Believe me, he is absent from the castle!
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Then by thy duty, wheresoe'er he is,
Conduct me to him! I have things to utter
Of higher moment than his life itself.
OFFICER.
Necessity constrains me to refuse
Thy eager prayer: the Viceroy is engaged
In scenes of tumult, which thy tender frame
Would tremble to encounter.
CONSTANTIA.
Prove my spirit!
I have a heart, that in the embattled field
Would cross the thunder of the bursting cannon
To reach the Viceroy: I conjure thee guide me!
I have an awful mystery to tell,
That yet may save him from impending crimes.
OFFICER.
Thy words amaze me, and enforce my service.
CONSTANTIA.
Lead on! and fear not! for the saints of Heaven
Will clear our way, and with their sacred power
Assist the parent to preserve her child.
(Exeunt.
| The Viceroy | |