University of Virginia Library

SCENE III.

Enter Adrian.
Adr.
What hast thou gain'd, Aquilius?

Aquil.
Nothing gain'd:
Sabina, sir, is constant to depart.

Adr.
She has indeed too just a cause for anger.

Aquil.
But yet so gentle her complaints, it seems
As if some other must have touch'd her heart;
And much I doubt she makes a specious plea
Of your inconstancy to veil her own.

Adr.
I like it not: this temper in a woman
Excites suspicion. Let us seek Sabina.

Aquil.
My lord, you have forgot the Parthian king.
My counsel you approv'd, and meant to appease him:
I've sent for Osrhoes, and he waits your summons.
When all is ready to complete your purpose
You still remain confus'd and unresolv'd.

Adr.
Alas! thou know'st not what a war of thought
Now agitates my bosom. Rome, the senate,
Sabina, Emirena, love and glory,
All, all are present to me, while in vain
I seek to reconcile my jarring passions.
On every side I fear some threatening rock:
I choose, repent, and long perplex'd in doubt,
I know not good from ill, till driven at last
To sudden choice, I choose from all, the worst.

Aquil.
Ah! cease, my sovereign, to torment yourself:
You have within your arms the fair for whom
You sigh, and fear to clasp her to your bosom.
I cannot bear your griefs: permit me, sir,
To introduce the king.

Adr.
Yet stay—if still—

Aquil.
No more of doubts, my lord.

Adr.
Act as thou wilt.

[Exit Aquilius.