University of Virginia Library

SCENE IX.

Enter Argantes, at whose coming Armida again takes upon her the Appearance of Almirena.
Arm.
I will once more resume my Rival's Form,
That so Argantes may not see me mov'd,
And if the hated, lov'd Rinaldo comes,
I may again deceive my self and him!

Arg.
Each small Delay, my lovely Almirena,
Which my bold Hope encounters in thy Love,
Is painful and afflicting to my Thought;
Armida views him scornfully.
Why are thy Looks to wear this sudden Change?
Cannot those starry Beauties of thy Face,
Shine, but through Clouds upon me?
She Eyes him more disdainfully than before.
Prithee Love,
Look on me with the Eye of Recompence;
For shortly thou shalt see thy self redeem'd
From the ignoble Bondage of Armida.
She starts, and appears surpriz'd.
Still are thy Looks perplex'd? Believe me Charmer
My Courage and my Knowledge join to serve thee.

Armida takes her own Shape, and flyes on him with great Fury.
Arm.
Traitor, is this the best Reward thou giv'st me?

Arg.
What do I see ye Pow'rs!

Arm.
I that have lov'd you!

Arg.
I own my self oblig'd;

Arm.
I that, to aid thee,
Arm'd half the Host of Hell!

Arg.
'Tis true you've serv'd me;

Arm.
That I shou'd thus be cheated and betray'd!

Arg.
Excuse a random Shot of hoodwink'd Love;

Arm.
Soon shalt thou hear the Thunder of my Vengeance,

Arg.
Forgive me my Offence;

Arm.
Traitor I will not;

Arg.
The Shame I feel is a sufficient Penance;

Arm.
Deceiver, no.

Arg.
Why then, proud Soceress know,
I own my Love to Almirena's Charms.

Arm.
I will withdraw the Aid my Friendship lent thee,

Arg.
Leave me whene'er thou wilt, my Sword alone,
Without thy Devils can defend my Throne;

[he goes off enrag'd.
Arm.