LALAGE
'Tis well.
There is a vow were fitting should be made-
A sacred vow, imperative, and urgent,
A solemn vow!
MONK
Daughter, this zeal is well.
LALAGE
Father, this zeal is anything but well!
Hast thou a crucifix fit for this thing?
A crucifix whereon to register
This sacred vow? (He hands her his own)
Not that- Oh! no!- no!- no! (Shuddering)
Not that! Not that!- I tell thee, holy man,
Thy raiments and thy ebony cross affright me!
Stand back! I have a crucifix myself,-
I have a crucifix Methinks 'twere fitting
The deed- the vow- the symbol of the deed-
And the deed's register should tally, father!
(Draws a cross-handled dagger, and raises it on high)
Behold the cross wherewith a vow like mine
Is written in Heaven!
MONK
Thy words are madness, daughter,
And speak a purpose unholy- thy lips are livid-
Thine eyes are wild- tempt not the wrath divine!
Pause ere too late!- oh, be not- be not rash!
Swear not the oath- oh, swear it not!
LALAGE
'Tis sworn!
III.
An apartment in a Palace. POLITIAN and BALDAZZAR
BALDAZZAR
-Arouse thee now, Politian!
Thou must not- nay indeed, indeed, shalt not
Give away unto these humors.
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