c* E $>' sHj No-e. TANCRED & SIGISMUNDA: A TRAGEDY. By Mr. JAMES THOMSON. Adapted for Theatrical Representation, AS PERFORMED AT THE THEATRES-ROYAL, LONDON, Manchester, Printed and sold by R. & W. Dean, 33, Market-street-lane. Sold also by Champante & Whitrow, E. Crosby & Co., and Longman, Hurst, Rees, & Orme, London ; Wilson & Spence, York j and all other Booksellers. 1806 . OBSERVATIONS, This is the only Play oJThomson’s that has been of late perform^ duced him to become a Tragic Poet, m wn c descriutive and the superiors are much more numerous than in the descriptive ana tne allegoric. saSwsSfS?iSS demanding pity. rt is singular thatTHOMSON should not have hinted at the source “Silvio" loSd‘ >3 IJere ware to be fg“ id the S classical purity in ihe disposition of the circumstances ana me <-o louring of the senthnents. BOLD is the man ! who, in this nicer age, Presumes to tread the chaste corrected stage. Now, with gay tinsel arts, we can no more Conceal the want of nature's sterling ore. Our spells are vanish’d, broke our magic wand, That us'd to waft you over sea and land. Before your light the fairy people fade, The demons fly—the ghost itself is laid. In vain of martial scenes the loud alarms, The mighty prompter thundering out to aims, The playhouse posse clattering from afar, The c/ose-wedg’d battle, and the din of war. Now, even the senate seldom we convene ; The yawning fathers nod behind the scene. Your taste rejects the glittering false sublime, To sigh in metaphor, and die in rhime. High rant is tumbled from his gallery throne i Description, dreams—nay, similies are gone. What shall we then ? to please you how devise, Whose judgment sits not in your ears nor eyes ? Thrice happy 1 could we catch gieat Shakspere's art, To trace the deep recesses of the heart : ' His simple, plain sublime, to which is given To strike the soul with darted flame from heaven : Could we awake soft Otway’s tender woe. The pomp of verse and golden lines of Rowe. We to your hearts apply : let them attend ; Before their silent, candid, bar we bend. Jf warm'd, they listen, 'tis our noblest praises If cold, they wither all the muse’s bays. DRAMATIS PERSON20. MEN. Tancred, Count of Lecce* Matteo Siffredi, Lord High Chancellor of Sicily. Earl Osmonu, Lord High Constable of Sicily. RopoLPHO, Friend to Tancred, and Captain of the Guards. WOMEN, Sigismunua, Daughter ofSiffredi, Laura, Sister of Rodolpho, and Friend to Sigismunda. Barons, Officers, Guards, &c. Scene, the City of Palermo in Italy. *3* “ The lines distinguished by inverted commas, are omitted in representation.” TANCRED & SIGISMUNDA. ACT I. SCENE I. The Pa/ape, Enter Sigismunda Laura. A Sigismunda. h, fatal day to Sicily ! the king Touches his last moments! Laura. So ! tis fear’d. Sig. “ The death of those distinguish’d by their station, “ But by their virtue more, awakes the mind M To soletpp dread, and strikes a saddening awe J “ Not that we grieve for them, but for ourselyes, “ Left to the toil of life—,And yet the best tl Are, by the playful children pf this world, “ At once fprgot, as they had never been.” Laura, *tis said, the heart is sometimes charged With a prophetic sadness: such, methinks, Now hangs on mine. The king’s approaching death Suggests a thousand fears. What troubles thence May throw the state once more into confusion, What sudden changes in my father’s house May rise, and part me from my dearest Tancred, Alarms my thoughts. Laura , The fears of love-sick fancy! Perversely busy to torment itself. But be assured, your father’s steady friendship, Join’d to a certain genius, that commands, Not kneels to fortune, will support and cherish, Here in the public eye of Sicily, This, I may call him, his adopted son, Thejpoble Tancred, form’d to all his virtues. a a 6 TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. Act f. Sig. Ah, form’d to charm his daughter '.—This fair Has tempted far the chase. Is he not yet [morn Return’d ? Laura. No.—When your father to the king, Who now expiring lies, was call’d in haste, He sent each way his messengers to find him; With such a look of ardour and impatience. As if this near event was to Count Tancred Of more importance than I comprehend. Sig. There lies, my Laura, o’er my Tancred’s birth A cloud I cannot pierce. With princely accost, Nay, with respect, which oft I have observ’d, Stealing at times submissive o’er his features, In Belmont’s woods my father rear’d this youth— Ah, woods! where first my artless bosom learn’d The sighs of love.—He gives him out the son Of an old friend, a baron of Apulia, Who in the late crusado bravely fell. But then^tis strange; is all his family As well as father dead ? and all their friends. Except my sire, the generous good Siffredi ? Had he a mother, sister, brother left, The last remain of kindred ; with what pride, What rapture, might they fly o’er earth and sea. To claim this rising honour of their blood ! This bright unknown I this all-accomplish’d youth 1 Who charms too much, the heart of Sigismunda ! “ Laura, perhaps your brother knows him better, u The friend and partner of his freest hours.” What says Rodolpho ? Does he tfuly credit This story of his birth ? Laura. He has sometimes, Like you, his doubts; yet, when maturely weigh'd, Believes it true. As for Lord Tancred’s .self, He never entertain’d the slightest thought That verg’d to doubt; but oft laments his state, By cruel fortune so ill pair’d to yours. Sig. Merit like his, the fortune of the mind, Beggars all wealth—Then, to your brother, Laura, He talks of me ? - . Laura. Of nothing else. Howe’er The talk begin, it ends with Sigismunda. Their morning, noontide, and their evening walks, 7 Jet I. tancred and SIGISMUNDA. Are fall of you, and all the woods of Belmont Enamour’d with your name — - Sig. Away, my friend ; | You flatter-yet the dear delusion charms. Laura. No, Sigismunda, ’tis the strictest truth, ' Nor half the truth, I tell you. Even with fondness y My brother talks for ever of the passion ! That fires young Tancred’s breast. So much it strikes him He praises love as if he were a lover. “ He blames the false pursuits of vagrant youth, u» « Calls them gay folly, a mistaken struggle I “ Against best judging nature.” Heaven, he says, | In lavish bounty form’d the heart for love ; In love included all the finer seeds Of honour, virtue, friendship, purest bliss- / Sig. Virtuous Rodolpho ! Laura. Then his pleasing theme He varies to the praises of your lover- Siz. And what, my Laura, says he on the subject ? *' Laura. He says that, though he was not nobly born* I Nature has form’d him noble, generous, brave, f lt Truly magnanimous, and warmly scorning “ Whatever bears the smallest taint of baseness; « u That every easy virtue is his own; i « Not learnt by painful labour, but inspir’d, ,« implanted in his soul.*’—Chiefly one charm He in his graceful character observes ; That though his passions burn with high impatience, And sometimes, from a noble heat of nature. Are ready to fly off; yet the least check Of ruling reason brings them back to temper, And gentle softness. Sig. True! Oh, true, Rodolpho ! Blest be thy kindred worth for loving his I He is all warmth, all amiable fire, All quick heroic ardour 1 temper’d soft !>, with gentleness of heart, and manly reason I , if virtue were to wear a human form, To light it with her dignity and flame, Theu soft’ning mix her smiles and tender graces; Oh, she would choose the person of my Tancred 1 Go on my friend, go on, and ever praise him j The subject knows no bounds, nor can I tire, I 1 8 TANCRED ANP SIGISMUNDA. Act l. While my breast trembles to thaft sweetest music! The heart of woman tastes no truer joy, Is never flattered with such dear enchantment-*—- “ ’Tis more than selfish vanity”—as when She hears the praises of the man she loves . Laurcf. Madam, your father cqmes. Enter Siffredi. Sif [To an attendant at he enters.'] Lord Tancred Is found? At. My lord, he quickly will be here. “ I scarce could keep before him, though he bid me “ Speed on, to say he would attend your orders.” Si/.’ Tis well—retire—You too, my daughter, leave me. Sig. I go, my father—But how fares the king ? Sif. He is no more. Gone to that awful state, Where kings the crown wear only of their virtues. Sig. How bright must then be his!-This stroke is He was this morning well, when to the chase [sudden; Lord Tancred went. Sif. ’Tis true, But at his years Death gives short notice—Drooping nature then. Without a gust of pain to shake it, falls. His death, my daughter, was that happy period Which few attaip. The duties of his day Were all discharg’d, “ and gratefully enjoy'd “ Its noblest blessings calm as evening skies Was his pure mind, and lighted up with hopes That open heaven • when, for his last ld'ng sleep Timely prepar’d, a lastitpde of life, A pleasing weariness of mortal jpy, Fell on his soul, and down he sunk to rest. Oh, may my death be such !-He but one wish Left uufulfill’d, which was to see Count Tancred-- Sig. To see Count Tancred !—Pardon me, my lord-* Sif. For what, my daughter ?—But, with such emotion, Why did you start at mention of Count Tancred ? Sig. Nothing—I only hop’d the dying king Might mean to make some generous just provision For this your worthy charge, this noble orphan. Sif. Apd he has done it largely—Leave me now— J want soipc private conference with Lord Tancred. [Exeunt Sigismunda and Laura, jAct I. TANCltED AND SIGISMUNDA. My doubts are but too true—If these old eyes Can trace the marks of love, a mutual passion Has seiz’d, I fear, my daughter and this prince. My sovereign now—Should it be so? Ah, there, There lurks a brooding tempest, that may shake My long concerted scheme, to settle firm The public peace and welfare, which the king Has made the prudent basis of his will-- Away, unworthy views! you shall not tempt me ! Nor interest, nor ambition shall seduce My fix'd resolve-Perish the selfish thought, Which our own good prefers to that of millions 1 He comes, my king, unconscious of his fortune. Enter Tancred. Tan, My lord Siffredi, in your looks I read, Confirm’d, the mournful news that fly abroad From tongue to tongue-—We then, at last, have lost The good old king ? Sif. Yes, we have lost a father! The greatest blessing Heaven bestows on mortals, That wounds me there—there ! where the human heart Most exquisitely feels—* Sf. Oh, beat it not, My royal lord; appease on me your vengeance! Tan , Did ever tyrant image aught so cruel! ' The lowest slave that crawls upon the earth, Robb’d of each comfort Heaven bestows on mortals, On the bare ground has still his virtue left, , The sacred treasure of an honest heart, > Which thou hast dar’d, with rash, audacious hand, And impious fraud, in me to violate- Sif. Behold, my lord, that rash, audacious hand, Which not repents its crime—Oh, glorious, happy ! If by my ruin I can save your honour. Tan. Such honour I renounce ; with sovereign scor^ Greatly detest it, and its mean adviser ! Hast thou not dar’d beneath my name to shelter, “ My name for other purposes design’d, )<£ Given from the fondness of a faithful heart, “ With the best love o’erflowing !—Hast thou not” Beneath thy sovereign’s name, basely presum’d To shield a lie—a lie, in public utter’d, ; To all deluded Sicily ? But know, This poor contrivance is as weak as base. u In such a wretched toil none can be held “ But fools and cowards-Soon thy flimsy arts, *“ Touch’d by my just, my burning indignation, “ Shall burst like threads in flame—Thy floating pru- “ But more secures the purpose it would shake, [dence “ Had my resolves been wavering and doubtful, , “ This would confirm them, make them fix’d as fate; “ This adds the only motive that was wanting “ To urge them on through war and desolation.” What! marry her! Constantia! her ! the daughter Of the fell tyrant who destroy’d my father ! /The very thought is madness! Ere thou seest The torch of Hymen light these hated nuptials, Thou shalt behold Sicilia wrapt in flames, Her cities raz’d, her valies drench'd with slaughter— Love set aside, my pride assumes the quarrel; 1 My honour now is up ; in spite of thee, A world combin’d against me, I will give Act II. 28 TANCRED AND SIGISMpNDA. This scatter’d will in fragments to the winds, Assert my rights, the freedom of my heart, Crush all who dare oppose me to the dust, And heap perdition on thee ! Si/. Sir, ’tis just. Exhaust on me thy rage; I claim it all. But for these public threats thy passion utters, ’Tis what thou canst not do. Tan. I cannot! ha! “ Driven to the dreadful brink of such dishonour, “ Enough to make the tamest coward brave, " And into fierceness rouse the mildest nature,” What shall arrest my vengeance ? Who ? Sif. Thyself. Tan. Away! Dare not to justify thy crime 1 That, that alone can aggravate its horror, Add insolence to insolence—perhaps May make my rage forget- Sif. Oh, let it burst • On this grey head, devoted to thy service! But when the storm has vented all its fury, Thou then must hear—nay more, I know thou wilt— Wilt hear the calm, yet stronger voice of reason. u Thou must reflect that a whole people’s safety, “ The weal,of trusted millions, should bear down, « Thyself the judge, the fondest partial pleasure.” Thou must reflect that there are other duties, A nobler pride, a more exalted honour, t( Superior pleasures far, that will oblige, “ Compel thee, to abide by this my deed, “ Unwarranted perhaps in common justice, <£ But which necessity, ev’n virtue’s tyrant, “ With pvfal voice commanded”—Yes, thou must, In calmer hours, divest thee of thy love. These common passions of the vulgar breast, This boiling heat of youth, and be a king, The lover of thy people ! Tan. “ Truths, ill employ’d, (l Abus’d to colour guilt!-A king ! a king !” Yes, I will be a king, but not a slave ; . In this will be a king ; in this my people Shall learn to judge how I will guard their rights. When they behold.me vindicate my own. 29 Act IT. TANCRED AND 5IGISMUNDA. But have I, say, been treated like a king ?— P Heavens! could I stoop to such outrageous usage ! I I were a mean, a shameless wretch, unworthy To wield a sceptre in a land of slaves, A soil abhorr’d of virtue; should belie My father’s blood, belie those very maxims, At other times you taught my youth—SifFredi 1 [ In a softened tone of voice. Sif. Behold, my prince, thy poor old servant, Whose darling care, these twenty years, has been * To nurse thee up to virtue ; u who, for thee, “ Thy glory and thy weal, renounces all, “ All interest or ambition can pour forth ; “ What many a selfish father would pursue , “ Through treachery and crimes:” behold him here. Bent on his feeble knees, to beg, conjure thee, With tears to beg thee to controul thy passion, And save thyself, thy honour, and thy people ! Kneeling with me, behold the many thousands To thy protection trusted ; fathers, mothers, The sacred front of venerable age, The tender virgin, and the helpless infant ; “ The ministers of Heav’n, those who maintain, “ Around thy throne, the majesty of rule; “ And those whose labour, scorch’d by winds and sun, “ Feeds the rejoicing public see them all Here at thy feet conjuring thee to save them i From misery and war, from crimes and rapine ! “ Can there be aught, kind Heaven, in self-indulgence “ To weigh down these, this aggregate of love, “ With which compar’d, the dearest private passion , “ Is but the wafted dust upon the balance r” Turn not away,——Oh, is there not some part In thy great heart, so sensible to kindness, And generous warmth, some nobler part, to feel The prayers and tears of these, the mingled voice * Of heaven and earth ? Tan. There is, and thou hast touch’d it. Rise, rise, SifFredi——Oh, thou hast undone me ! Unkind old man ! —.—Oh, ill-entreated Tancred l Which way soe’er.I turn, dishonour rears Her hideous front—and misery and ruin. H Was it for this you took such care to form me ! 30 T^NCRED and sigjs^i.unda. rfct 11 . «■ For this imbu’d me with the quickest sense “ Of shame ; these fi.uer feelings,that ne’er vex « The common mass of mortals, dully happy « In bless’d insensibility ? Oh, rather « You should have sear’d my heart, taught me that power « And splendid interest lord it still o’er virtue; “ That, gilded by prosperity and pride, tt There is no shame, no meanness; temper’d thus, « I had been fit to rule a veqal world. “ Alas ! what meant thy wantonness of prudence ?>’•’ Why have you rais’d this miserable conflict Betwixt the duties of the king and man ? Set virtue against virtue ?--“ Ah, Siffredi! « Tis thy superfluous, thy unfeeling wisdom, « Tt}at has involv’d me in a maze of error «< Almost beyond retreat”-But hold, my soul, Thy steady purpose-Tost by various passions To this eternal anchor keep-There is, Can be no .public without private virtue- Then, mark me well, observe what I command ; « It is the sole expedient now remaining-” To-morrow, when the senate meets again, Unfold the whole, unravel the deceit; « Nor that alone ; try to repair its mischief; « There all thy power, thy eloquence and interest “ Exert to reinstate me in my rights, « And from thy own dark snares to disembroil me.”— Start not, my lord—This must and shall be done ! Or ere our friendship ends—Howe’er disguis’d, Whatever thy pretence, thou art a traitor. Sif. I should indeed deserve the name pf traitor, And even a traitor’s fate, had I so slightly, From principles so weak, done what I did, As e’er to disavow it- Tan. Ha! Sif , My liege, Expect not this-Though practis’d long in courts, I have not so far learn’d their subtle trade, To veer obedient with each gust of passion. I honour thee, I venerate thy orders, But honour more my duty. Nought on earth Shall ever shake me from that solid rock, Nor smiles, nor frowns.-—— 3.1 Act 11. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. Tan. You will not then ? Sif. I cannot. Tan. Away! begone !—Oh, my Rodolpho, come. And save me from this traitor! Hence, I say. “ Avoid my presence strait! and know, old man, « Thou, my worst foe beneath the mask of friendship, « Who, liot.content to trample in the dust « My dearest rights, dost with cool insolence “ Persist, and call it duty; hadst thou not “ A daughter that protects thee, thou shouldst feel « The vengeance thou deservest.”—— No reply 1 Away! [Exit SiffrfIpi. Enter Rodolpho. Rod. What can incense my prince so highly Against his friend Siffredi! Tan. Friend ! Rodolpho ? When I have told thee what this friend has done, How play’d me like a boy, a base-born wretch. Who had nor heart'oor spirit, thou wilt stand Amaz’d, and wonder at my stupid patience. “ Rod. I heard, with mix’d astonishment and grief, “ The king’s unjust, dishonourable will, “ Void in itself—I .saw you stung with rage, “ And writhing in the snare; just as I went, “ At your command to wait you here—but that “ Was the king’s deed, not his. “ Tan. Oh, he advis’d it ! h These many years he has in secret hatch’d “ This black contrivance, glories in the scheme, tt And proudly plumes him with his traitorous virtue. “ But that was nought, Rodolpho, nothing, nothing ! « Oh, that was gentle, blameless to what follow’d ! ft I had, my friend, to Sigismunda given, “ To hush her fears, in the full gush of fondness, tt A blank sign’d with my hand—and he, Oh, heavens ! *t Was ever such a wild attempt!—he wrote “ Beneath my name an absolute compliance f‘ To this detested will; nay, dar’d to read it f‘ Before myself, on my insulted throne “ His idle pageant plac’d——Qh, words are weak ft To paint the pangs, the rage, the indignation, _ t( That whirl’d from thought to thought my soul m tem¬ pest, TAXC8.ES and sicismunda. /let 11 , Now on the point to burst, and now by shame Repress’d-But in the face of Sicily, All mad with acclamation, what, Rodolpho, What could I do ? the sole relief that rose To my distracted mind, was to adjourn Th’ assembly till to-morrow—But to-morrow What can be done ?—Oh, it avails not what! I care not what is done—My only care Is how to clear my faith with Sigismunda. She thinks me false! She cast a look that kill’d me! Oh ! I am base in Sigismunda’s eye! The lowest of mankind, the most perfidious! u Rod.. This was a strain of insoleij.ee indeed, A daring outrage of so strange a nature As stuns me quite— “ Tan. Curs’d be my timid prudence, That dash’d not back, that moment in his face, The bold presumptuous lie !—and curs’d this hand, That from a start of poor dissimulation, Led off my Sigismunda’s hated rival. Ah, then! what, poison’d by the false appearance. What., Sigismunda, were thy thoughts of me ? How, in the silent bitterness of soul, How didst thou scorn me ! hate mankind, thyself, For trusting to the vows of faithless Tancred ? For such 1 seem’d—I was—the thought distracts me ! I should have cast a flattering world aside, Rush’d from my throne, before them all avow’d her, The choice, the glory of my free-born heart, And spurn’d the shameful fetters thrown upon it _ Instead of that—confusion !—what I did Has clench’d the chain, confirm’d Siffredi’s crime, And fix’d me down to infamy ! “ Rod. My lord, Blame not the conduct which your situation Tore from your tortur’d heart—What could you do ? Had you, so circumstanc’d, in open senate, Before th’ astonish’d public, with no friends Prepar’d, no party form’d, affronted thus The haughty princess and/her powerful faction, Supported by this will, the sudden stroke, Abrupt and premature, might have recoil’d Upon yourself, even your own friends revolted, Act II. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. 33 “ And turn’d at once the public scale against you, “ Besides, consider, had you then detected “ In its fresh guilt this action of SifFredi, “ You must with signal vengeance have chastis’d “ The treasonable deed—Nothing so mean “ As weak insulted power that dares not punish. And how would that have suited with your love; “ His daughter present too ? Trust me, your conduct, “ Howe’er abhorrent to a heart like yours, “ Was fortunate ana wise—Not that I mean “ E’er to advise submission- “ Tan . Heavens 1 submission—— M Could I descend to bear if,~ even in thought, “ Despise me, you, the world, and Sigismunda! “ Submission !—No !—To-morrow’s glorious light “ Shall flash discovery on the scene of baseness. “ Whatever be the risque, by heavens, to-morrow, “ I will o’erturn the dirty lie built sthemes “ Of these old men, and shew my faithful seuate, “ That Manfred’s son knows to assert and wear, “ With undiminish’d dignity, that crown “ This unexpected day has plac’d upon him.” But this, my friend, “ these stormy gusts of pride “ Are foreign to my love—Till Sigismunda “ Be disabus’d, my breast is tumult all, “ And can obey no settled course of reason. “ I see her still, I feel her powerful image, “ That look, where with reproach complaint was mix’d, “ Big with soft wo, and gentle indignation, “ Which seem’d at once to pity and to scorn me—— “ Oh, let me find her! I too long have left “ My Sigismunda to converse with tears, “ A prey to thoughts that picture rne a villain. “ But ah ! how, clogg’d with this accursed state, “ A tedious world, shall I now find access? “ Her father too—Ten thousand horrors crowd “ Into the wild, fantastic eye of love-»■ “ Who knows what he may do? Come then, my friend, “ And by thy sister’s hand, oh, let me steal “ A letter to her bosom—I no longer “ Can bear her absence, by the just contempt “ She now must brand we with, inflam’d to madness. “ Fly, my Rodolpho, fly ! engage thy sister 34 TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA,. Aet III. “ To aid my letter.” This black, unheard of outrage, I cannot now impart—'Till Sigismunda He disabus'd, my breast is tumult all. Come, then,my friend, and by the hand of Laura, Oh, let me steal a letter to her bosom. And this “ very” evening Secure an interview—I would not bear This rack another day, not for my kingdom. “ Till then, deep plung’d in solitude and shades, “ I will not see the hated face of man.” Thought drives on thought, on passions passions roll ; Her smiles alone can calm my raging soul. [ Exeunt% ACT III. SCENE I. A Chamber . Sigismunda alone, sitting in a disconsolate posture. Ah, tyrant prince ! ah more than faithless Tancred! Ungenerous and inhuman in thy falsehood! Hadst thou .this morning, when my hopeless heart, Submissive to my fortune and my duty, Had so much spirit left, as to be willing To give thee back thy vows, ah ! hadst thou then Confess’d the sad necessity thy state Impos’d upon thee, and with gentle friendship, Since we must part at last, our parting soften'd 5 I should indeed—I should have been unhappy, But not to this extreme—“ Amidst my grief, « I had, with pensive pleasure, cherish’d still “ The sweet remembrance of thy former love, “ Thy image still had dwelt upon my soul, “ And made our guiltless woes not undelightful. ** But coolly thus—How couldst thou be so cruel ?— « Thus to revive my hopes, to sooth my love, “ And call forth all its tenderness, then sink me “ In black despair—What unrelenting pride Possess’d thy breast, that thou couldst bear unmov’d u To see me bent beneath a weight of shame r •’* Pangs thou canst never feel! How couldst thou drag ** In barbarous triumph at a rival’s car > [me, M How make me witness to a sight of horror ? TANCRED 35 Act III. AND SIGISMONDA. u That hand, which, but a few short hours ago, “ So wantonly abus’d my simple faith, “ Before th’ attesting world given to another, “ Irrevocably given !—There was a time, “ When the least cloud that hung upon my brow, “ Perhaps imagin’d only, touch’d thy pity. “ Then, brighten’d often by the ready tear, “ Thy looks were softness all; then the quick heart, “In every rrerve alive, forgot itself, “ And for each other then we felt alone. “ But now, alas ! those tender days are fled ; “ Now thOu canst see me wretched, pierc’d With an- “ With studied anguish of thy own creating, [guish, “ Nor wet thy harden’d eye-—Hold, let me think— “ I wrong thee sure ; tHdu canst not be so base, “ As meanly in my misery to triumph— “ What is it then !—’Tis fickleness of nature, “ ’Tis sickly love extinguish’d by ambition-” Is there, kind Heaven, no constancy in man ? No steadfast truth, no generous fix’d affection, That can bear up against a selfish world ? No, there is none—Even Tancred is inconstant! [Ristojr. Hence ! let me fly this sdene !—Whate’er I see, These roofs, these walls, each object that surrounds me, Are tainted with his Vows—But whither fly? The groves are worse, the sbft retreat of Belmont, Its deepening glooms, gay lawns, and airy summits. Will wound my busy memory-to torture. And all its shades will whisper—faithless TanCred!— My father comes—How, sunk in this disorder, Shall I sustain his presence ? Enter Siffredi. Sif. Sigismunda, My dearest child ! I grieve to find thee thus A prey to tears. “ I know the powerful cause From which they flow, and therefore can excuse them, “ But not their wilful obstinate continuance. “ Come, rouse thee then, call up thy drooping spirit,” Awake to reason from this dream of love, And shew the world'thou art SifFredi’s daughter. S/g. Alas 1 I am unworthy of that name. Si/, Thou art indeed to blame; thou hast too rashly 36 TANCRED AND SICISMUNDA, Act III. Engag’d thy heart, without a father’s sanction. But this I can forgive. “ The king has virtues, J “ That plead thy full excuse ; nor was I void “ Of blame, to trust thee to those dangerous virtues. “ Then dread not my reproaches. Though he blames, “ Thy tender father pities more than Blames thee. “ Thou art my daughter still j” and, if thy heart Will now resume its pride, assert itself, And greatly rise superior to this trial, I to my warmest confidence again Will take thee, and esteem thee more my daughter. Sig. Oh, you are gentler far than I deserve l It is, it ever was, my darling pride, To bend my soul to your supreme commands, Your wisest will; and though by love betray’d— Alas! and punish’d too—I have transgress’d The nicest bounds of'duty, yet I feel A sentiment of tenderness, a source Of filial nature springing in my breast, J That, should it kill me, shall controul this passion, And make me all submission and obedience To you my honour’d lord, the best of fathers. £//. Come to my arms, thou comfort of my age 1 Thou only joy and hope of these grey hairs ! Come, let me take thee to a parent’s heart; There, with the kindly aid of my advice, Even with the dew of these paternal tears, Revive add nourish this becoming spirit-- Then thou dost promise me, my Sigismunda-- Thy father stoops to make it his request— Thou wilt resign thy fond presumptuous hopes, And henceforth never more indulge one thought That in the light of love regards the king ? Sig. Hopes I have none !—Those by this fatal day Are blasted all—But from my soul to banish, While weeping memory there retains her seat, Thoughts which the purest bosom might have cherish’d,' Once my delight, now even in anguish charming, Is more, my lord, than I can promise. Sif. Absence, and time; the softener of our passions, Will conquer this. Meantime, I hope from thee A generous greater effort; that thou wilt now Exert thy utmost force, nor ianguish thus 37 Act III. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. Beneath the vain extravagance of love. -> Let not thy father blush to heap it said, His daughter was so weak, e’er to admit A thought so void of reason, that a king Should to his rank, his honour, and his glory, The high important duties of a throne, ' Even to his throne itself, madly prefer A wild romantic passion, the fond child Of youthful dreamirtg thought and vacant hours; That he should quit his Heaven-appointed station, f Desert his awful charge, the care of all “ The toiling millions which this isle contains; “ Nay more, should plunge them into war and ruin, “ And all to sooth a sick imagination, <« a miserable weakness”— What , must for thee, To make thee blest, Sicilia be unhappy ? “ The king himself, lost to the nobler sense “ Of manly praise, become the piteous hero “ Of some soft tale, and rush on sure destruction? * « Canst thou, my daughter, let the monstrous thought “ Possess one moment thy perverted fancy ?” Rouse thee, for shame ! and if a spark of virtue Lies slumb’ring in thy soul, bid it blaze forth ; Nor sink unequal to the glorious lesson, This day thy lover gave thee from his throne. Sig. Ah, that was not from virtue !—Had, my father, That been his aim, I yield to what you say; , “ ’Tis powerful truth, unanswerable reason. « Then, then, with sad but duteous resignation, « I had submitted as became your daughter ; “ But in that moment, when my humbled hopes « Were to my duty reconcil’d, to raise them « To yet a fonder height than e’er they knew, « Then rudely dash them down—There is the sting l “ The blasting view is ever present to me-” Why did you drag me to a sight so cruel ? r Sif. It was a scene to fire thy emulation. Sig. It was a scene of perfidy !—But know, I will do more than imitate the king— For he is false !—I, though sincerely pierc’d With the best, truest passion, ever touch’d A virgin’s breast, here vow to Heaven and you, Though from my heart I cannot, from my hopes, v 33 TANG RED AND SIGISMUNDA. At III To cast this prince—What would you more, my father } Sif. Yes, one th.ing-more—thy father then is happy— “ Though by the voice of innocence and virtue “ Absolv’d, we live not to ourselves alone : “ A rigorous world with peremptory sway, “ Subjects us all, and even the noblest most,’' This world from thee, my honour and thy own, Demands one step; a step, by which*convinc’d. The king may see thy heart disdains to wear A chain which his has greatly thrown aside. “ ’Tis fitting too, thy sex’s pride commands thee* “ To shew th’ approving world thou canst resign, “ As well as he, nor with inferior spirit, “ A passion fatal to the public weal.” But above all, thou must root out for ever From the king’s breast.the least remain of hope. And henceforth make his mentioned love dishonour. These things, my daughter, that must needs be done* Can but this way be done—by the safe refuge. The sacred shelter of a husband’s arms. And there is one- S/g. Good heavens! what moans my lord > Sif. One of illustrious family, high rank, Yet still of higher dignity and merit, Who can and will protect thee ; one to awe The king himself—Nay, hear me, Sigismunda— The noble Osmond courts thee for his bride, And has my plighted word—This day— Sig. [Kneeling.] My father! Let me with trembling arms embrace thy knees ! Oh, ifyou'ever wish to see me happy; If e’er in infant years I gave you joy, When, as I prattling twin’d around your neck. You snatch’d me to your bosom, kiss’d my eyes. And melting said you saw my mother there ; Oh, save me from that worst severity Of fate ! Oh, outrage not my breaking heart To that degree!—1 cannot!—’tis impossible !- So soon withdraw it, give it to another— “ Hear me, my dearest father; hear the voice * c Of nature and humanity, that plead “ As well as justice for me !—Not to choose “ Without your wise direction may be duty j Act Ill. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. 39 iC But still my choice is free—that is a right, “ Which even the lowest slave can never lose. “ And wquld you thus degrade me ?—make me base > 41 For such it were to give my worthless person “ Without my heart, an injury to Osmond, “ The highest can be done”—Let me, my lord— Or 1 shall die, shall, .by the gudden change, Be to distraction shock’d—Let me wear out My hapless days in solitude and silence, Far from the malice of a prying world ; - At least—you cannot sure refuse me this — - Give me a little time—I will do all, All I can do, to please you !—“ Oh, your eye “ Sheds a kind beam-” Sif. My daughter! you abuse The softness of my nature— Sig. Here, my father, ’Till you relent, here will I grow for ever! Sif Rise, Sigismunda.—Thohgh you touch my heart, Nothing can shake th* inexorable dictates Of honour, duty, and determin’d reason. Then by the holy ties of filial love, Resolve, I charge thee, to receive Earl Osmond, As-suits the man who is thy father's choice, And worthy of thy hand—I go to bring him— Sig. Spare me, my dearest father! Sif. [ Aside.'] I must rush From her soft grasp, or nature will betray me ! “ Oh, grant us, Heaven 1 that fortitude of mind, “ Which listens to our duty, not our passions”— Quit me, my child 1 Sig. You cannot, oh, my father! You cannot leave me thus 1 Sif. Come hither, Laura, Come to thy friend. Now shew thyself a friend. Combat her weakness ; dissipate her tears; Cherish, and reconcile her to her duty. [ Exit Siffredi. Enter Laura. Sig. Oh, wo on wo! distress’d .by love and duty! Oh, every way unhappy Sigismunda ! Laura. Forgive me, madam, if I blame your grief. How can you waste your tears on one so false ? 40 TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA, Act III. Unworthy of your tenderness; to whom Nought but contempt is due and indignation ? 1 Sig. You know not half the horrors of my fate ! I might perhaps have learn’d to scorn his falsehood; Nay, when the first sad burst of tears was past, I might have rous’d my pride and scorn’d himself— f] But ’tis too much, this greatest last misfortune— Oh, whither shall I fly ? Where hide me, Laura, From the dire scene my father now prepares ? Laura. What thus alarms you, madam ? Sig. Can it be ? Can I—ah, no!—at once give to another My violated heart ? in one wild moment ? He brings Earl Osmond to receive my vows. Oh, dreadful change ! for Tancred, haughty Osmond. Laura. Now, on my soul, ’tis what an outrag’d heart Like yours should wish !—I should, by heavens, esteem it Most exquisite revenge ! Sig. Revenge! on whom ? On my own heart, already but too wietched! Laura. On him ! this Tancred ! who has basely soM, For the dull form of despicable grandeur, His faith, his love!—At once a slave and tyrant! Sig. Oh, rail at me, at my believing folly, My vain ill-founded hopes, but spare him, Laura. Law a. Who rais’d these hopes ? who triumphs o’er that weakness ? Pardon the word—You greatly merit him; Better than him, with all his giddy pomp ; You rais’d him by your smiles when he was nothing. Where is your woman’s pride, that guardian spirit Given us to dash the perfidy of man ? Ye powers! I cannot bear the thought with patience— “ Yet recent from the most unsparing vows u The tongue of love e’er lavish’d; from your hopes “ So vainly, idly, cruelly deluded Before the public thus, before your father, By an irrevocable solemn deed, With such inhuman scoru, to throw you from him : To give his faithless hand yet warm from thine. With complicated meanness, to Constantia. And, to complete his crime, when thy weak limbs Could scarce support thee, thep, of thee regardless, 41 ^Ct III. TANCRED AND SIGJSMUNDA. To lead her off, * Sig. That was indeed a sight To poison love; to turn it into rage And keen contempt.—What means this stupid weakness That hangs upon me ? Hence, unworthy tears „ Disgrace my cheek no more ! No more, my heart. For one so coolly false or meanly fickle- “ Oh, it imports not which”—dare to suggest The least excuse!—Yes, traitor, I will wring Thy pride, will turn thy triumph to confusion ! ' “ I will not pine away my days for thee, “ Sighing to brooks and groves; while, with vain pity, “ You in a rival’s arms lament my fate- “ No, let me perish ! ere I tamely be > “ That soft, that patient, gentle Sigismtinda, “ Who can cortsole her with the wretched boast, ** She was for thee unhappy !—If l am, “ I will be nobly so !”-Sicilia’s daughters , Shall wondering see in me a great example Of one who punish’d an ill-judging heart, Who made it bow to what it most abhorr’d! Crush’d it to misery ! for having thus So lightly listen’d to a worthless lover! Laura. At last it mounts, the kindling pride of virtue; Trust me, thy marriage will embitter his- Sig. Oh, may the furies light his nuptial torch 1 Be it accurs’d as mine! for the fair peace, The tender joys of hymeneal love, May jealousy awak’d, and fell remorse, Pour all their fiercest venom through his breast!— Where the fates lead, and blind revenge, I follow.—- i Let me not thiuk—By injur’d love! I vpw, Thou shalt, base prince! perfidious and inhuman ! Thou shalt behold me in another’s arms; In his thou hatest! Osmond’s ! Laura. “ That will grind 1 “ His heart with secret rageAy, that will sting His soul to madness; “ set him up a terror, “ A spectacle of wo to faithless lovers!”- Your cooler thought, besides, will of the change Approve, and think it happy. “ Noble Osmond “ From the same stock with him derives his birth, “ First of Sicilian barons, prudent, brave, » 3 42 tancred and sigismunda. Act 111, “ Of strictest honour, and by all rever’d-” Sig. Talk not of Osmond, but perfidious Tancred 1 Rail at him, rail! invent new names of scorn! . Assist me, Laura; lend my rage fresh fuel; Support my staggering purpose, which already Begins to fail me—Ah, my vaunts how vain ! How have I ly’d to my own heart!—Alas, My tears return, the mighty flood o’erwhelms me ! “ Ten thousand crowding images distract u My tortur’d thought—And is it come to this ? “ Our hopes, our vows, our oft repeated wishes, t( Breath’d from the fervent soul, and full of heaven, u To make each other happy—come to this 1” Laura. If thy own peace and honour cannot keep Thy resolution fix’d, yet, Sigismunda, Oh, think, how deeply, how beyond retreat, Th/father is engag’d. Sig. Ah, wietched weakness ! That thus enthrals ipy soul, “ that chases thence “ Each nobler thought, the sense of every duty And have I then no tears for thee, my father ? Can I forget thy cares, from helpless years, Thy tenderness for me ? an eye still beam’d “ With love; a brow that never knew a frown “ Nor a harsh word thy tongue?” Shall I for these Repay thy stooping venerable age With shame, disquiet, anguish, and dishonour ? It must not be!—Thou first of angels ! come, Sweet filial piety, and firm my breast! Yes, let one daughter to her fate submit, Be nobly wretched—but her father happy !-- Laura !—they come ! Oh, heavens, 1 cannot stand The horrid trial!—Open, open earth ! And hide me from their view. Laura. Madam. Enter Siffredi and Osmond.. Sif. My daughter, Behold my noble friend who courts thy hand, And whom to call my son I shall be proud; Nor shall I less be pleas’d in this alliance, (< To see thee happy.” Qm. Think not, I presume, Act 111- TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. 43 Madam, on this your father’s kind consent, ' To make me blest. I love you from a heart, That seeks your good superior to my own; And will by every art of tender friendship, Consult your dearest welfare. May I hope, k Yours does not disavow your father’s choice ? Sig. I am a daughter, sir—and have no power O’er my own heart—I die—Support me, Laura. [Faints. Sif. Help—Bear her off—She breathes—my daughter l Sig. Oh, ! Forgive my weakness—soft—my Laura, lead me— To my apartment. [Exeunt Sig. and Lavra. Sif. Pardon me, my lord. If by this sudden accident alarm'd, , I leave you for a moment. [Exit Siffredi. Osm . Let me think- What can this mean ?—Is it to me aversion ? Or is it, as I fear’d, she loves another > Ha ?—yes—perhaps the king, the young Count Tancred; They were bred up together-Surely that, That cannot be—Has he not given his hand. In the most solemn manner, to Constantia ? Does not his crown depend upon the deed ? *< No—If they lov’d, and this old statesman knew it, “ He could not to a king prefer a subject. “ His virtues I esteem—nay more, I trust them-r « So far as virtue goes—but could he place “ His daughter on the throne of Sicily- “ Oh, ’tis a glorious bribe, too much for man!” What is iuhen ? I care not what it be. “ My honour now, my dignity demands, i “ That my propos’d alliance, by her father, “ And even herself accepted, be not scorn’d. “ I love her too—I never knew till now “ To what a pitch I love her. Ob, she shot “ Ten thousand charms into my inmost soul i 1 « She look’d so mild, so amiably gentle, “ She bow’d her head, she glow’d with such confusion, « Such loveliness of modesty 1 She is, “ In gracious mind, in manners, and in person, “ The perfect model of all female beauty !” She must be mine—She is!—If yet her heart Consents not to my happiness, her duty, Act IV. 44 TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. Join’d to my tender cares, will gain so much Upon her generous nature—That will follow. * The man of sense, who acts a -prudent part, Not flattering steals, but forms himself the heart. [ Exit. ACT IV. SCENE I. The Garden belonging to Siefredi’s House. Enter SiGis- munda and Laura. Sigistnunda, with a letter in her hand. Tis done 1—1 am a slave !-—The fatal vow Has pass’d my lips!—Methought in those sad moments. The tombs around, the saints, the darken’d altar, And all the trembling shrines with horror shook. But here is stiil new matter of distress. Oh, Tancred, cease to persecute me more ! Oh, grudge me not some calmer state of woe; Some quiet gloom to shade my hopeless days, Where I may never hear of love and thee !- Has Laura, too, conspired against my peace ? Why did you take this letter ?—Bear it back- I will not court new pain. [Giving her the letter. Laura. Madam, Rodolpho Urg’d me so much, nay, even with tears conjur’d me, But this once more to serve th’ unhappy king-- For such he said he was—that though enrag’d, Equal with thee, at his inhuman falsehood, I could not to my brother’s fervent prayers Refuse this office—Read it—His excuses Will only more expose his falsehood. Sig, No : It suits not Osmond’s wife to read one line From that contagious hand—she knows too well! Laura. He paints him out distress’d beyond expression; Even on the point of madness. “ Wild as winds, “ And fighting seas, he raves. His passions mix, “ With ceaseless rage, all in each giddy moment.” He dies to see you, and to clear lire faith. [all! Sig. Save me from that!—That would be worse than Laura. I but report my brother’s words; who then Began to talk of some dark imposition, 45 Aft IV. TANCRED AND SIGISMVNDA. That had deceiv'd us all; when interrupted, We heard your father and Earl Osmond near, As summon’d to Constantia's court they went. Sig. Ha ! imposition ?—Well, i£ I am doom'd To be, o’er all my sex, the wretch of love, In vain I would resist-Give me the letter- To know the worst is some relief—Alas, It was not,thus, with such dire palpitations, That, Tancred, once I us’d to read thy letters. [Attempting to read the letter , but gives it to Laura. Ah, fond remembrance blinds me!—Read it, Laura. Laura. [Reads.] “ Deliver me, Sigismunda, from that « most exquisite misery which a faithful heart can suffer « -To be thought base by her, from whose esteem “ even virtue borrows new charms. When I submitted “ to my cruel situation, it was not falsehood you beheld, « but an excess of love. Rather than endanger that, I “ for a while gave up my honour. Every moment till I « see you stabs me with severer pangs than real guilt *< itself can feel. Let me then conjure you to meet me “ in the garden, towards the close of the day, when I « will explain this mystery. We have been most in- “ humanly abused; and that by the means of the very « paper which I gave you, from the warmest sincerity “ of love, to assure to you the heart and hand of “ Tancred.” Sig. There, Laura, there, the dreadful secret sprung ! That paper! ah, that paper ! it suggests A thousand horrid thoughts—I to my father Gave it! and he perhaps—I dare not cast A look that way—If yet indeed you love me. Oh, blast me not, kind Tancred, with the truth ! Oh, pitying keep me ignorant for ever. What strange peculiar misery is mine ? Reduc’d to wish the man I love were false S “ Why was I hurry’d to a step so rash ? “ Repairless wo !—I might have waited, sure, “ A few short hours—No duty that forbade— « f ow'd thy love that justice; till this day “ Thy love an image of all perfect goodness! “ A beam from heaven that glow’d with every virtue ! « And have I thrown this prize of life away ? “ The piteous wreck, of one distracted moment ? 46 TANCttED , 'X«TD ! CISMUNDA. Ad IV. “ Ah, the cold prudence of remorseless age ! “ Ah, parents, traitors to yonr children’s bliss! u Ah, curs’d, ah, blind revenge !—Op every hand “ I was betray’d—You, Laura, too,“betray’d mel “ Laura. Who, who but he, w,hate’er he writes, be¬ tray’d you ? - * ( Or false or pusillanimous. For Price, “ I will with you suppose, that his agreement 41 To the king’s will was forg’d-Though forg’d by whom ? ■ * “ Your father scorns the crime—Yet what avails it ? “ This, if it clears-his truth, condemns his spirit. “ A youthful king, by love and honour fir’d, “ Patient to sit on his insulted throne, “ And let an outrage, of so high a nature, “ Unpunish’d pass, uncheck’d, uucontradicted—. u Oh, ’tis a meanness equal even to falsehood. “ Sig. Laura, no-more-—We have already judg’d “ Too largely without knowledge. Oft, what seems “ A trifle, a mere nothing, by itself, “ In some nice situation turns the scale 41 Of fate, and rules the most important actions. 44 Yes, I begin to feel a sad presage ! 44 I am undone, from that eternal source Of human woes—the judgment of the passions. “ But what have I to do with these excuses ? “ Oh, cease, my treacherous heart, to give them room ! “ It suits not thee to plead a lover’s cause : “ Even to lament my fate is now dishonour. “ Nought now remains, but with relentless purpose, To shun all interviews, all clearing up “ Of this dark scene; to wrap myself in gloom, “ In solitude and shades ; there to devour “ The silent sorrows ever swelling here ; “ And since I must be wretched—for I must— “ To claim the mighty misery myself, “ Engross it all, and spare a hapless father. “ Hence, let me fly !—The hour approaches-” Laura. Madam, Behold he comes—the king— Sig. Heavens! how escape ? No—I will stay—This one last meeting—Leave me, [Exit Laura. Act IV. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. 47 Enter Tancred. Tan. And are these long, long hours of torture past ? My life ! my Sigismunda ! [ Throwing himself at her feet. Sig. Rise, my lord. To see my sovereign thus no more becomes me. Tan. Oh, let me ki^s the ground on which you tread! Let me exhale my soul in softest transport 1 Since I again behold my Sigismunda ! ~ [Rising. Unkind ! how cduldst thou ever deem me false ? How thus dishonour love ?—“ Oh, I could much ' “ Embitter my complaint!—how low were then ' “ Thy thoughts of me ? How didst thou then affront 11 The human heart itself ?” After the vows, The fervent truth, the tender protestations, Which mine has often pour'd, to let thy breast, Whate’er th’ appearance was, admit suspicion f * Sig. How 1 when I heard myself your full consent To the late king’s so just and prudent will ? Heard it before you read, in solemn senate ? When I beheld you give your royal hand, To her, whose birth and dignity of right Demands that high alliance ? Yes, my lord, You have done well. The man whom heaven appoints To govern others, should himself first learn To bend his passions to the sway of reason. In all, you have done well; but when you bid My humbled hopes look up to you again, Aud sooth’d with wanton cruelty my weakness— That toe*, was well—My vanity deserv’d The sharp rebuke, “ whose fond extravagance “ Could ever dream to balance your repose, “ Your glory, and the welfare of a people." Tan. ,Chide on, chide on. Thy soft reproaches now, Instead of wounding, only sooth my fondness. No, no, thou charming consort of my soul! I never lov’d thee with such faithful ardour, As in that cruel miserable moment You thought me false; “ when even my honour stoop'd “ To wear for thee a baffled face of baseness.” It was thy barbarous father, Sigismunda, Who caught me in the toil. He turn’d that paper, Meant for th,’ assuring bond of nuptial love, Act IV. 48 TANCRED AND SIOISMVNDA. To ruin it for ever; he, he wrote That forg’d consent, you heard, beneath my name, “ Nay, dar’d before my outrag’d throne to read it If* Had he not been thy father-Ha ! my love ! You tremble, you grow pale ! Sig. Oh, leave me Tancred! Tan. No !—Leave thee '.—Never ! never till you set My heart at peace, till these dear lips again Pronounce thee mine! Without thee, I renounce Myself, my friends, the world—Here on this hand— Sig. My lord, forget that hand, which never now Can be to thine united- Tan. Sigismunda ! [ ner > What dost thou mean ?—Thy words, thy look, thy man- Seem to conceal some horrid secret—Heavens !- No—that was wild—Distraction fires the thought!— Sig. Inquire no more —1 never can be thine. Tan. What, who shall interpose ? Who dares attempt To brave the fury of an injur’d king, Who, ere he sees thee ravish’d from his hopes, Will wrap all blazing Sicily in flames ?- Sig. In vain your power, my lord—’Tis fatal error, Join’d to my father’s unrelenting will, Has plac’d an everlasting bar betwixt us- I am—Earl Osmond’s—wife. Tan. Earl Osmond’s wife !- [After a long pause, during which they look at one another with the highest agitation, and most tender distress. Heavens! did I hear thee right ? What! marry’d? mar- Lost to thy faithful Tancred ? lost for ever! [ry’d ! Couldst thou then doom me to such matchless wo, Without so much as hearing me ?—Distraction!- Alas! what hast thou done ? Ah, Sigismunda! Thy rash credulity has done a deed, Which, of two happiest lovers that e’er felt The blissful power, has made two finish’d wretches! But—madness!—Sure, thou know’st it cannot be ! This hand is mine! a thousand thousand vows- Enter Osmond. Osm. [Snatching her hand from the king.~\ Madam, this hand, by the most solemn rites, A little hour ago, was given to me, Act IV. .TANCRED AND 8IGISMUNDA. 49 And did not sovereign honour now command me, Never but with my life to quit my claim, 1 would renounce it—thus ! Tan. Ha, who art thou! Presumptuous man! Sig. [Aside.] Where is my father? Heavens ! [Goes out. Osm. One thou shouldst better know—Yes—view me, Who can and will maiutain his rights and honour, [one Against a faithless prince, an upstart king, Whose first base deed is what a harden’d tyrant Would blush to act. Tan. Insolent Osmond! know, This upstart king willjiurl confusion on thee, And all who shall invade his sacred rights, Prior to thine—thine, founded on compulsion, On infamous deceit, “ while his proceed “ From mutual love, and free long-plighted faith. « She is, and shall be mine !”■—I will annul, By the high power with which the law:. : nvest me, Those guilty forms in which you have efitrap’d, “ Basely entrap’d, to thy detested nuptuals,” My queen betroth’d, who lias my heart, my hand. And shall partake my throne—If, haughty lord, If this thou didst not know, then know it now; And know, besides, as I have told thee this, Shouldst thou but think to urge thy treason further— « Than treason more ! treason against my love !”— Thy life shall answer for it. Osm. Ha! my life!- It moves my scorn to hear thy empty threats. When was it that a Norman baron’s life Became so vile, as oh the frown of kings To hang ?—Of that, my lord, tire law must judge : Or if the law be weak, my guardian sword- Tan. Dare not to touch it, traitor, lest my rage Break loose, and do a deed that misbecomes me. Enter SiFFRKDr. Sif. My gracious lord, what is it I behold! My sovereign in contention with his subjects ? Surely this house deserves from royal Tancred A little more regard, than to be made A scene of trouble, and unseemly jars. >50 TANCRED AND SIC ISM UN DA. Act IV. “ It grieves my soul, it baffles every hope, “ It makes me sick, of life, to see thy glory “ Thus blasted in the bud.”—Heavens ! can your high- From your exalted character desceud, [ness “ The dignity of virtue ; and, instead ** Of being the protector of our rights, “ The holy guardian of domestic bliss,’* Unkindly thus disturb the sweet repose. The secret peace of families, for which Alone the free-born race of man to laws And government submitted? Tan. My lord Siffredi, Spare thy rebuke. The duties of my station Are not to me unknown. But thou, old man, Dost thou not blush to talk of rights invaded; And of our best our dearest bliss disturb’d ? Thou, who with more than barbarous perfidy Hast trampled all allegiance, justice, truth. Humanity itself, beneath thy feet ? Thou know’st thou hast—I could, to thy confusion, Return thy hard reproaches; but I spare thee Before this lord, for whose ill-sorted friendship Thou hast most basely sacrific’d thy daughtet. Farewel, my lord.—-For thee, lord constable. Who dost presume to lift thy surly eye To my soft love, my gentle Sigismunda, I once again command thee on thy life- Yes—chew thy rage—but mark me—on thy life, No further urge thy arrogant pretentions! [Exit Tan. Osm. Ha ! Arrogant pretentions! Heaven and earth ! What! arrogant pretentions to my wife? My wedded wife ! Where are we ? in a land Of civil rule, of liberty and laws ?- Not, on my life, pursue them ?—Giddy prince! My life disdains thy nod. It is the gift Of parent Heaven, who gave me too an arm, A spirit to defend it against tyrants. “ The Norman race, the sons of mighty Rollo, “ VVho rushing in a tempest from the north, “ Great nurse of generous freemen, bravely wop “ With their own swords their seats, and still possess “ By the same noble tenure, are not us’d [them “ To hear such language—If I now desist, TANCKSD AND SIGISMUNDA. 51 Ad IV. “ Then brand me for a coward! deem me villain! “ A traitor to the public ! By this conduct “ Deceiv’d, betray’d, insulted, tyranniz’d.” Mine is a, common cause. My arm shall guard, Mix’d with my own, the rights of each Sicilian, “ Of social life, and of mankind in general.” Ere to thy tyrant rage they fall a prey, I shall find means to shake thy tottering throne, •* Which this illegal, this perfidious usage “ Forfeits at once,” and crush thee in the ruins !—— Constantia is my queen 1 Si/. L6rd constable, Let us be stedfast in the right; but let us Act with cool prudence, and with manly temper. As well as manly firmness. “ True, I own, “ Th* indignities you suffer are so high, “ As might even justify what now you threaten. u But if, my lord, we can prevent the woes, “ The cruel horrors of intestine war, “ Yet hold untouch’d our liberties and laws; “ Oh, let us, rais’d above the turbid sphere “ Of little selfish passions, nobly do it! Nor to our hot, intemperate pride, pour out “ A dire libation of Sicilian blood. “ ’Tis godlike magnanimity to keep, u When most provok’d, our reason calm and clear, “ And execute her will from a strong sense u Of what is right, without the vulgar aid u Of heat and passion, which, though honest, bears us “ Often too far.” Remember that my house Protects my daughter still; and ere I saw her Thus ravish’d from us, by the arm of power, This hand should act the Roman father’s part. Fear not; be temperate; all will yet be well. I know the king. “ At first his passions burst “ Quick as the lightning’s flash ; but in his breast “ Honour and justice dwell”——Trust me, to reason He will return. Osrn. He will!—By heavens, he shall!- You know the king—l wish, my lord Siffredi, That you h?td deign’d to tell me all you knew- And would you have me wait, with duteous patience, Till he return to reason ? Ve just powers 1 5# TANCRKD AND SIGISMUNDA. Act IV. When he has planted on our necks his foot, And trod us into slaves ; when his vain pride Is cloy’d with our submission ; “ if, at last, “ He finds his arm too weak to shake the frame “ Of wide-establish’d order out of joint, “ And overturn all justice; then, perchance, “ He, in a fit of sickly kind repentance, “ May make a merit to return to reason.” No, no, mylord ! there is a nobler way, To teach the blind oppressive fury reason: Oft has the lustre of avenging steel Unseal'd her stupid eyes—The sword is reason! .E»/rrRoDOLPHo with Guardi . Rod. My lord high constable of Sicily, In the king’s name, and by his special order, I here arrest you prisoner of state. Osm, What king ? I know no king of Sicily, Unless he be the husband of Constantia. Rod, Then know him now—behold his royal orders To bear you to the castle of Palermo. Sif. Let the big torrent foam its madness off. Submit, my lord—No castle long can hold Our wrongs—This, more than friendship or alliance. Confirms me thine; this-binds me to thy fortunes. By the strong tie of common injury, Which nothing can dissolve-1 grieve, Rodolpho, To see the reign in such unhappy sort - Begin. Osm. The reign! the usurpation call it! This meteor king may blaze a while, but soon Must spend his idle terrors—sir, lead on—— Farewel, my lord—more than my life and fortune. Remember well, is in your hands—my honour! Sif. Our honour is the same. My son, farewel--— We shall not long be parted. On these eyes Sleep shall not shed his balm, till I behold thee Restor’d to freedom, or partake thy bonds. Even nohle courage is not void of blame y Till nobler patience sanctifies its fame. Act V. TANCRID AND SIGISMU] 53 ACT V. SCENE I. A Chamber. ■ Siffredi alone. The prospect lowers around. I found the king, Though calm’d a little, with subsiding tempest, As suits his generous nature, yet in love Abated nought, most ardent in his purpose; Inexorably fix’d, whate’er the risk, To claim my daughter, and dissolve this marriage— I have embark’d, upon a perilous sea, A mighty treasure. “ Here the rapid youth, “ Th’ impetuous pa'ssions of a lover-king, «* Check my bold purpose ; and there, the jealous pride, “ Th’ impatient honour of a haughty lord, « Of the first rank, in interest and dependanee « Near equal to the king, forbid retreat. “ My honour too, the same unchang’d conviction, “ That these my measures were, and still remain, “ Of absolute necessity to save « The land from civil fury, urge me on. « But hbw proceed ?-1 only faster rush « Upon the desperate evils I would shun. « Whate’er the motive be, deceit, I fear, “ And harsh unnatural force, are not the means “ Of public welfare, or of private bliss.”- Bear witness, Heaven ! thou mind-inspecting eye! My breast is pure. I have prefer’d my duty, The good and safety of my fellow-subjects, To all those views that fire the selfish race Of mortal men, and mix them in eternal broils. Enter an Officer belonging to Siffredi. Off. My lord, a man of noble port, his face Wrapp’d in disguise, is earnest for admission. Sif. Go, bid him enters- [Officer goes out. Ha ! wrapp’d in disguise ! And at this late unseasonable hour ! « When o’er the world tremendous midnight reigns, ** By the dire gloom of raging tempest doubled—-y Who can it be ? e 3 5 * TANCRED SICISMtTNDA. 4ct r. Enter Osmond discovering himself. Sif. “What! ha!” Earl Osmond, you?—Welcome, once more, To this glad roof!—But why in this disguise ? Would I could hope the king exceeds his promise ! I have his faith, soon as to-morrow’s sun * Shall gild Sicilia’s cliffs, you shall be free.-- Has some good angel turn’d his heart to justice ? Osm. It is not by the favour of Count Tancred That I am here. As much I soorn his favour, As I defy his tyranny and threats- Our friend GofFredo, who commands the castle, On my parole, ere dawn to render back My person, has permitted me this freedom. Know then j the faithless outrage of to-day, By him committed whom you call the king, Has rous’d Constantia’s court. Our friends, the friends Of virtue, justice, and of public faith, Ripe for revolt, are in high ferment all. “ This, this, they say, exceeds whate’er deform’d “ The miserable days we saw beneath •“ William the Bad. This saps the solid base, “ At once, of government and private life : “ This shameless imposition on the faith, “ The majesty of senates, this lewd insult, “ This violation of the rights of men, “ Added to these, his ignominious treatment “ Of her, th’ illustrious offspring of our kings, “ Sicilia’s hope, and now our royal mistress. “ You know, my lord, how grossly these infringe “ The late king’s will, which orders, if Count Tancred “ Make not Constantia partner of his throne, “ That he be quite excluded the succession, “ A.nd she to Henry given, king of the Romans, “ The potent emperor Barbarossa’s son, “ Who seeks with earnest instance her alliance.” I thence of you, as guardian of the laws, As guardian of this will, to you intrusted, Desire, nay more, demand your instant aid, To see it put in vigorous execution. Sif. You cannot doubt, my lord, of my concurrence. Who, more than I, have labour’d this great point ? 55 Act V. TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA, >Tis my own plan ; and if I drop it now, I should be justly branded with the shame Of rash advice, or despicable weakness. But let us not precipitate the matter. Constantia’s friends are numerous and strong; Yet Tancred’s, trust me, are of equal force : f/er since the secret of his birth was known, The people are all in a tumult hurl’d, Of boundless joy, “ to hear there lives a prince “ Of mighty Guiscard’s line. Numbers, besides, Tis so, my lord—be not by passion blinded— « *Tis surely so”-Oh, if our prating virtue Dwells not in words alone—Oh, let us join, My generous Osmond, to avert these woes, And yet sustain our tottering Norman kingdom . Osm. But how, Siffredi, how r—If by soft means We can maintain our rights, and save our country, May his unnatural blood first stain the sword. Who with unpitying fury first shall draw it! Sif. I have a thought—The glorious work be thme. « gut it requires an awful flight of virtue, ti Above the passions of the vulgar breast, « And thence from thee I hope it, noble Osmond — Suppose my daughter, to her God devoted, Were plac’d within some convent’s sacred verge, Beneath the dread protection of the altar—— Osm. Ere then, by heavens! I would “ devoutly shave « My holy scalp,” turn whining monk myself. And pray incessant for the tyrant’s safety.' • What! How! because an insolent invader, A sacrilegious tyrant, “ in contempt “ Of all those noblest rights, which to maintain tt m an’s peculiar pride,” demands my wife; “ That I shall thus betray the common cause Of human kind.” IVhat! shall 1 tamely yield her up, Even in the manner you propose ?—Oh, then I were supremely vile ! degraded ! sham d i 56 TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. A*t V. The scorn of manhood ! and abhorr’d of honour! Sif There is, my lord, an honour, the calm child Of reason, of humanity, and mercy, Superior far to this punctilious demon, That singly minds itself, and oft embroils With proud barbarian niceties the world. Osm. My lord, my lord, I cannot brook your prudence • It holds a pulse unequal to my blood-- Unblemish’d honour is the flower of virtue! The vivifying soul! and he who slights it. Will leave the other dull and lifeless dross. Sif. No more—You are too warm. Osm. You are too cool. Sif. Too cool, my lord ? I were iudeed too cool, Not to resent this language, and to tell thee— I wish Earl Osmond were as cool as I To his own selfish bliss—ay, and as warm To that of others—But of this no more_ My daughter is thy wife—I gave her to thee, And will, against all force, maintain her thine. But think not I will catch thy headlong passions, Whirl’d in a blaze of madness o’er the land; Or, till the last extremity compel me, Risk the dire means of war—The king, to-morrow, Will set you free ; and, if by gentle means He does not yield my daughter to your arms, And wed Constantia, as the will requires, Why then expect me on the side of justice_ Let that suffice. Osm. It does—Forgive my heat. My rankled mind, by injuries inflam’d, May be too prompt to take, and give offence. [port Sif. ’Tis past—Your wrongs, I own, may well tran- The wisest mind—But henceforth, noble Osmond, Do me more justice, honour more my truth, Nor mark me with an eye of squint suspicion- These jars apart—You may repose your soul “ On my firm faith, and unremitting friendship. “ Of that I sure have given exalted proof, “ And the next sun we see shall prove it further.”_ Return, my son, and from your friend’Goffredo Release your word. There try, by soft repose, To calm your breast. Act V. TANCRED AND SICISMUNDA. 57 Om. Bid the vext ocean sleep, Swept by the pinions of the raging north- But your frail age, by care and toil exhausted, Demands the balm of all-repairing rest. Sif Soon as to-morrow’s dawn shall streak the skies, I, with my friends in solemn state assembled, Will to the palace, and demand your freedom, Then by calm reason, or by higher means. The king shall quit his claim, and in-the face Of Sicily, my daughter shall be yours. Farewel. Osm. My lord, good night. [Exit Siffredi. [After a long ■pause.'] I like him not—— Yes—I have mighty matter of suspicion. “ ’Tis plain. I see it lurking in his breast, “ He has a foolish fondness for this king.”- My honour is not safe, while hpre my wife Remains—Who knows but he this very night May bear her to some convent, as he mentioned— The king too—though I smother’d up my rage, I mark’d it well—will set me free to-morrow. Why not to-night ? He has some dark design- By heavens, he has!—I am abus’d most grossly; Made the vile tool of this old statesman’s schemes; « Marry’d to one—ay, and he knew it—one « who loves young Tancred! Hence her swooning, tears, - « And all her soft distresses, when she disgrac’d me, « By basely giving her perfidious hand « Without her heart—Hell and perdition ! this, “ This is the perfidy !—this is the fell, , « The keen envenom’d, exquisite disgrace, « Which, to a man of honour, even exceeds « The falsehood of the person—But I now « wilt rouse me from the poor tame lethargy, « By my believing fondness cast upon me.” I will not wait his crawling timid motions, i « Perhaps to blind me meant, which he to-morrow « Has promis’d to pursue, 7 No 1 ere his eyes ! « Shall open on to-morrow’s orient beam,” I will convince him that Earl Osmond never Was form’d to be his dupe—“ I know full well « Th’ important weight and danger of the deed ; 4ct V ^8 TANCRIO AND STCISMUNDA. “ But to a man, whom greater dangers press, “ Dnven to the brink of infamy and horror, ,£ Rashness itself, and utter desperation, (e Are the best prudence.”—I will bear her off This night, and lodge her in a place of safety * I have a trusty band that waits not far. Hence ! let me lose no time—One rapid moment Should ardent form, at once, and execute A bold design—’Tis fix’d—“ 'Tis done !—yes, then, ‘ Wh ?n f have seiz’d the prize of love and honour. And with a friend secur’d her; to the castle I will repair, and claim Goffredo's promise “ To rise with all his garrison—My friends « With brave impatience wait.” The mine is laid. And only wants my kindling touch to spring. [Exit Osm. SCENE 11. Siqismvnda’s dfartment. Enter Sicismunda and J- AUR A. [Thunder. Laura. Heavens! ’tis a fearful night! Sig. Ah ! the black rage Of midnight tempest, or th’ assuring smiles Of radiant morn, are equal all to me. Nought now has charms or terrors to my breast. The seat of stupid wo!—Leave me, my Laura. Kind rest, perhaps, may hush my woes a little. Oh, for that quiet sleep that knows no morning ! Laura. Madam, indeed I know not how to go. Indulge my fondness—Let me watch a while By your sad bed, ’till these dread hours shall pass. Sig. Alas ! what is the toil of elements, f Thunder This idle perturbation of the sky, To what I feel within r—Oh, that the fires Of pi ying heaven would point their fury here? Good night, my dearest Laura. Laura. Oh, I know not What this oppression means—But ’tis with pain. With tears, I can persuade myself to leave you_ Well then—Good night, my dearest Sigismunda. [Exit. ° l S- And am I then alone ?—The most undone. Most wretched being now beneath the cope Of this affrighting gloom that wraps the world_ 59 Act V. TANCR.ED AVD SIGISMtJNDA. I said I did not fear—Ah, me ! I feel A shivering horror run through all my powers ! Oh, I am nought but tumult, fears and weakness 1 And yet how idle fear when hope is gone, Gone, gone for ever !—Oh, thou gentle scene [Looking towards her bed. Of sweet repose, where, by the oblivious draught Of each sad toilsome day, to peace restor’d, Unhappy mortals lose their woes awhile, Thou hast no peAce for me !—What shall I do ? How pass this dreadful night, so big with terror ? — Here, with the midnight shades, here will I sit, [Sitting down > A prey to dire despair, and ceaseless weep The hours away^—Bless me—I heard a noise - [Starting up. No—I mistook—nothing but silence reigns And awful midnight round—Again !—Oh, heavens! My lord tire king ! Enter Tancred. Tan. Be not alarm’d, my love ! Sig. My royal lord, why at this midnight hour, How came you hither ? Tan. By that secret way My love contriv’d, when we, in happier days, Us’d to devote these hours, so much in vain, To vows of love, and everlasting friendship. Sig. Why will you thus persist to add new stings To her distress, who never can be thine ? Oh, fly me! fly! you know—•— Tan. I know too much. Oh, how I could reproach thee, Sigisitrunda! Pour out my injur’d soul in just complaints ! But now the time permits not, these swift moments-^— I told thee how thy father’s artifice Forc’d me to seem perfidious in thy eyes. “ Ah r fatal blindness ! not to have observ’d “ The mingled pangs of rage and love that shook me s “ When by my cruel public situation “ Compeli’d, I only feign’d consent, to gain “ A little time, and more secure thee mine.” E’er since—a dreadful interval of care 1 CO TANCRED AND SIGISMUNDA. Ad V, My thoughts have been employ’d, not without hope, How to defeat Siffredi’s barbarous purpose. But thy credulity has ruin’d all, Thy rash, thy wild—I know not what to name it — — Oh, it has prov’d the giddy hopes of man To be delusion all, and sick’ning folly ! Sigi Ah, generous Tancred ! ah, thy truth destroys me ! Yes, yes', ’tis I, ’tis I alone am false ! My hasty rage, join’d to my tame submission, . More than the most exalted filial duty Could e’er demand, has dash’d our cup of fate With bitterness unequal’d—But, alas! What are thy woes to mine ?—to.mine ! just heaven!. Now is thy turn of vengeance—hate, renounce me! Oh, leave me to the fate I well deserve, To sink in hopeless misery !—at least, Try to forget the worthless Sigismunda ! Tan, Forget thee! No ! Thou art my soul itself ! I have no thought, no hope, no wish but thee! “ Even this repented injury, the fears, “ That rouse me all to madness, at the thought “ Of losing thee, the whole collected pains “ Of my full heart, serve but to make thee dearer.” Ah, how, forget thee !-r—Much must be forgot, Ere Tancred can forget his Sigismunda ! Sig. But you, my lord, must make that great effort. Tan. Can Sigismunda make it ? Sig. Ah, I know not With what success—But all that feeble woman And love-entangled reason can perform, I, to the utmost, will exert to do it. “ Tan, Fear not—’Tis done!—If thou canst form the thought, “ Success is sure — I am forgot already. “ Sig. Ah, Tancred ! — But, my lord, respect me more. “ Think who I am—-What can you now propose? “ Tan. To claim the plighted vows which heaven has “ To vindicate the rights of holy lovfe [heard, “ By faith and honour bound, to which compar’d “ These empty forms, which have ensnar’d thy hand, tc Are impious guile, abuse, and profanation*-*-* “ Nay, as a king, whose high prerogative “ By this unlicens’d marriage is affronted, ActV. TANeRED AN 1 > SIGISMUNDA. 6: “ To bid the laws themselves pronounce it void. “ Sig. Honour, my lord, is much too proud to catch “ At every slender twig of nice distinctions. “ These for th’ unfeeling vulgar may do well s “ But those, whose souls are by the nicer rule “ Of virtuous delicacy nobly sway’d, “ Stand at another bar than that of laws. “ Then cease to urge me—Since I am not born “ To that exalted fate to be your queen- 2 TANCRED AND SICISMUNDA. Act V. “ But now not all my partial heart can plead,” Shall ever shake th’ unalterable dictates That tyrannize my breast. Tan. ’Tis well—No more— I yield me to my fate—Yes, yes, inhuman ! Since thy barbarian heart is steel’d by pride, Shut up to love and pity, here behold me Cast on the ground, a vile and abject wretch ! Lost to all cares, all dignities, all duties ! Here will I grow, breathe out my faithful soul, Here at thy feet—Death, death alone shall part us 1 S/g. Have you then vow’d to drive me to perdition! What can I more r—Yes, Tancred ! once again I will forget the dignity my station Commands me to sustain—for the last time Will tell thee, that, I fear no ties, no duty, Can ever root thee from my hapless bosom. Oh, leave me ! fly me ! were it but in pity !— To see what once we tenderly have lov’d, Cut off from every hope—cut off for ever ! Is pain thy generosity should spare me. Then rise, my lord ; and if you truly love me. If you respect my honour, nay, my peace. Retire ! for though th’ emotions of my heart Can ne’er alarm my virtue ; yet, alas! They tear it so, they pierce it with such anguish— Oh, ’tis too much !—I cannot bear the conflict! Enter Osmond. Osm. Turn, tyrant, turn ! and answer to my honour. For this thy base insufferable outrage ! Tan. Insolent traitor ! think not to escape Thyself my vengeance! {They fight , OsMond fails. Sig. Help, here! Help!— Oh, heavens! [ Throwing herself down hy him. Alas, my lord, what meant your headlong rage ? That faith, which I this day, upon the altar, To you devoted, is unblemish’d, pure As vestal truth ; was resolutely yours, Beyond the power of aught on earth to shake it. Osm. Perfidious woman ! die !—[. Shortening {is sword, he -plunges it into her breast.] and to the grave Attend a husband, yet but half aveng’d! 63 Act V. TANCRED ANp sigismunda. Tan. Oh, horror! horror! execrable villain! Om. And, tyrant! thou !—thou shalt not o’er my tomb Exult—’Tis well—’Tis great!—I die content!— " [Dies. 2?/z/w Rodolpho and Laura. Tan. [Throwing himself down by Sigismunda.} Quick. ! here 1 bring aid !—“ All in Palermo bring, “ Whose skill can save her !”—Ah, that gentle bosom Pours fast the streams of life. Sig. All aid is vain, I feel the powerful hand of death upon me— But, oh ! it sheds a sweetness through my fate, That I am thine again ; and without blame May in my Tancred’s arms resign my soul! Tan. Oh, death is in that voice ! so gently mild. So sadly sweet, as mixes even with mine The tears of hovering angels !—Mine again!- And is it thus the cruel fates have join’d us ? Are these'the horrid nuptials they prepare For love like ours ?—“ Is virtue thus rewarded? “ Let not my impious rage accuse just heaven ! “ Thou* Tancred, thou, hast murdered Sigismunda! “ That furious man was but the tool of fate, “ I, I the cause!—But I will do thee justice <£ On this deaf heart! that to thy tender wisdom “ Refus’d an ear”—Yes, death shall soon unite us. Sig. Live, live, my Tancred !—JLet my death suffice To expiate all that may have been amiss. May it appease the fates, avert their fury From thy propitious reign ! Meantime, of me “ And of thy glory mindful, live, I charge thee, “ To guard our friends, and make thy people happy—”, Enter Siffredi fixed in astonishment and grief. My father!——Oh, how shall I lift my eyes To thee, my sinking father ! Sif. Awful heaven! I am chastis’d—My dearest child !— Sig- Where am I ? A fearful darkness closes all around— My friends!. We needs must part—I must obey Th’ impetuous call—Farewel, my Laura ! “ cherish “ My poor affiicted father’s 3 ge—Rpdolpho, 64 Act V. TANCREt) AND SICISMUNDA. ** Now is the time to watch th’ unhappy king, “ With all the care and tenderness of friendship.”— Oh, my dear father, bow’d beneath the weight Of age and grief—the victim even of virtue, Receive my last adieu !—Where art thou, Tancred ? Give me thy hand—But, ah,—it cannot save me From the dire king of terrors, whose cold power Creeps o’er my heart—Oh ! Tan. How these pangs distract me! Oh, lift thy gracious eyes;—Thou leav’st me then ! Thou leav’st me, Sigismunda ! Sig. 11 Yet a moment-- “ I had, my Tancred, something more to say- “ Yes—but thy love and tenderness for me, “ Sure makes it needless—Harbour no resentment “ Against my father; venerate his zeal, “ That acted from a principle of goodness, ** From faithful love to thee—Live, and maintain “ My innocence embalm’d, with holiest care il Preserve my spotless memory !” Oh,—I die— Eternal mercy take my trembling soul! Oh, *tis the only sting of death to part From those we love—from thee—farevvel, my Tancred ! [Diet. Tan. Thus then ! [Flying to his sword, is held by Rodolpho. Rod. Hold, hold, my lord !—Have you forgot Your Sigismunda’s last request already > Tan. Off! set me free 1 Think not to bind me down. With barbarous friendship, to the rack of life! What hand can shut the thousand thousand gates Which death still opens to the woes of mortals ?— “ I shall find means—No power in earth or heaven “ Can force me to endure the hateful light, “ Thus robb’d of all that lent it joy and sweetness ! M Off, traitors, off! or my distracted soul Will burst indignant from this jail of nature, To where she beckons yonder—No, mild Seraph, Point not to life—I cannot linger here, Cut off from thee, the miserable pity, The scorn of human kind !—A trampled king ! “ Who let his mean poor-hearted love, one moment, c< To coward prudence stoop! who made it not Act V. TANCR.SD AND SIGISMUNDA. <»-> « The first undoubting action of his reign, “ To snatch thee to his throne, and there to shield “ Thy helpless bosom, from a ruffian’s fury !”- Oh, shame ! Oh, agony! Oh, the fell stings Of late, of vain repentance !—Ha, my brain Is all on fire! a wild abyss of thought! Th’ infernal world discloses! See ! Behold him . Lo' with fierce smiles he shakes the bloody steel, And mocks my feeble tearsjs-Hence, quickly, hence ! Spurn his vile carcass ! give it to the dogs! Expose it to the winds and screaming ravens. “ Or hurl it down that fiery steep to hell, « There with his soul to toss in flames for ever/ Ah, impotence of rage ! Rod, Preserve him , heaven ! Tan . What am I? Where? Sad, silent, all ?—The forms of dumb despair, Around some mournful tomb.—What do I see ? This soft abode of innocence and love Turn’d to the house of death! a place of horror! Ah, that poor corse! pale ! pale ! deform’d with murder! Is that my Sigismunda ? [Throws himself down by her. Sif. [After a pathetic pause, looking on the scene before him . Have I liv’d To these enfeebled years, by heaven reserv d To be a dreadful monument of justice ?- Rodolpho, raise the king, and bear him hence From this distracting scene of blood and death. “ Alas, I dare not give him my assistance ; My care would only more inflame his rage. “ Behold the fatal work of my dark hand, « That by rude force the passions would conttnand , “ That ruthless thought to root them from the breast ; “ They may be rul’d , but will not be opprest. Taught hence, ye parents , who from nature stray, And the great ties of social life betray. Ne’er with your children act a tyrant’s part : ’Tis yours to guide, not violate the hearty Ye vainly wise, who o’er mankind preside, Behold my righteous woes, and drop your pride ; Keep virtue's simple path before your eyes, Not think from evil good can ever rise. epilogue. CRAM D to the throat -with wholesome moral stuff,\ Jitas, poor audience ! you have had enough. Idas ever hapless heroine of a play In such a piteous plight as ours to-day ? Idas ever woman so hy love betray’d? Match’d with two husbands, and yet—.die a maid, But bless me !—hold—what sounds are these l hear— 1 iee *ne Tragic Muse herself appear. [The back-scene opens, and discovers a romantic sylvan landscape; from which the Tragic Muse advances slowly to music, and speaks the follow¬ ing tines: Hence with your fipp ant epilogue, that tries Jo wipe the virtuous tear from British eyes ; 1 hat dares my moral , tragic scene profane , IVith strains—at best, unsuiting, light and vain. Hence from the pure unsully’d beams that play Jn yon fair eyes where virtue shines—away! nJj***'*! 5 ’ t0 y ou f rom chaste Castalian groves, VHere dwell the tender, oft unhappy lives ; mere shades of heroei roam, each mighty name , Bind court my aid to rise again to fame ; jfoyou 1 come, to freedom's noblest seat, And in Britannia fix my last retreat. In Greece and Rome, I watch'd the public weals I he purple tyrant trembled at triy steel: Nor did l less o'er private sorrows reign, And mend tfie melting heart with softer pain On France and You then rose mv brightning star, Hith sotial ray-1- The arts are ne'er at war. % EPILOGUE. 67 j Oh, as your fire and genius strongly blaze, As yours are generous freedom’s bolder lays. Let not the Gallic taste leave yours behind; In decent manners and in life refin’d ; Banish the motly mode, tp tag low verse, v The laughing ballad to the mournful herse. When through five acts your hearts have team’d to glow , Touch'd with the sacred force of honest woe ; 1 Oh, keep the dear impression on your breast , L Nor idly lose it for a wretched jest. THE END. k