 | The Law of Lombardy |  |
SCENE IV.
To them BIRENO.BIRENO.
Confirm'd, fair princess! By the King's command
You see me here a joyful visitant.
'Tis not unknown why warlike Burgundy,
Spreading his hostile banners to the wind,
Makes sword and fire his dreadful harbingers.
PRINCESS.
The cause I have heard—But on.
PALADORE.
[Aside.]
Down, swelling heart!
BIRENO.
Your yet unplighted hand gives to this war
Its edge and colour; to remove that prize
Beyond the invader's reach, my sovereign's wisdom
Deems the best means to blunt his hostile sword;
Therefore on me he deigns—
PRINCESS.
I understand;
But have no present ear for such a theme.
My father's goodness left my choice unforc'd
Of one unwelcome suitor; the same justice
Secures me from compulsion in a second.
BIRENO.
And must I bear this answer to the King?
11
Myself will be my own interpreter,
And save your trouble. Once more, Sir, I thank you.
[To Paladore and exit.
| The Law of Lombardy | |