Then, since my hopes of
happiness
are gone,
Denied all favours, I will seize this one.
Denied all favours, I will seize this one.
Dryden - Complete
_ You, judges of the field, first take your place.
--
The accusers and accused bring face to face.
Set guards, and let the lists be opened wide;
And may just heaven assist the juster side!
_Almah. _ What! not one tender look, one passing word?
Farewell, my much unkind, but still loved lord!
Your throne was for my humble fate too high,
And therefore heaven thinks fit that I should die.
My story be forgot, when I am dead,
Lest it should fright some other from your bed;
And, to forget me, may you soon adore
Some happier maid,--yet none could love you more.
But may you never think me innocent,
Lest it should cause you trouble to repent.
_Boab. _ 'Tis pity so much beauty should not live; [_Aside. _
Yet I too much am injured, to forgive. [_Goes to his seat. _
_Trumpets: Then enter two Moors, bearing two naked swords before the
accusers_ ZULEMA _and_ HAMET, _who follow them. The Judges seat
themselves; the_ QUEEN _and_ ABDELMELECH _are led to the Scaffold. _
_Alabez. _ Say for what end you thus in arms appear;
What are your names, and what demand you here?
_Zul. _ The Zegrys' ancient race our lineage claims;
And Zulema and Hamet are our names.
Like loyal subjects in these lists we stand,
And justice in our king's behalf demand.
_Hamet. _ For whom, in witness of what both have seen,
Bound by our duty, we appeach the queen
And Abdelmelech, of adultery.
_Zul. _ Which, like true knights, we will maintain, or die.
_Alabez. _ Swear on the Alcoran your cause is right,
And Mahomet so prosper you in fight.
[_They touch their foreheads with the Alcoran,
and bow. _
_Trumpets on the other side of the Stage; two Moors, as before, with
bare swords before_ ALMANZOR _and_ OZMYN.
_Selin. _ Say for what end you thus in arms appear;
What are your names, and what demand you here?
_Almanz. _ Ozmyn is his, Almanzor is my name;
We come as champions of the queen's fair fame.
_Ozm. _ To prove these Zegrys, like false traitors, lie;
Which, like true knights, we will maintain, or die.
_Selin. _ [_to_ ALMAH. ]
Madam, do you for champions take these two,
By their success to live or die?
_Almah. _ I do.
_Selin. _ Swear on the Alcoran your cause is right;
And Mahomet so prosper you in fight. [_They kiss the Alcoran. _
[OZMYN _and_ BENZAYDA _embrace, and take leave
in dumb show; while_ LYNDARAXA _speaks to her
Brother. _
_Lyndar. _ If you o'ercome, let neither of them live,
But use with care the advantages I give:
One of their swords in fight shall useless be;
The bearer of it is suborned by me. [_She and_ BENZAYDA _retire. _
_Alabez. _ Now, principals and seconds, all advance,
And each of you assist his fellow's chance.
_Selin. _ The wind and sun we equally divide,
So let the event of arms the truth decide.
The chances of the fight, and every wound,
The trumpets, on the victor's part, resound.
[_The Trumpets sound;_ ALMANZOR _and_ ZULEMA
_meet and fight;_ OZMYN _and_ HAMET. _After
some passes, the sword of_ OZMYN _breaks;
he retires, defending himself, and is
wounded; the Zegrys' Trumpets sound their
advantage. _ ALMANZOR, _in the mean time,
drives_ ZULEMA _to the farther end of the
Stage, till, hearing the Trumpets of the
adverse Party, he looks back, and sees_
OZMYN'S _misfortune; he makes at_ ZULEMA
_just as_ OZMYN _falls, in retiring, and_
HAMET _is thrusting at him. _
_Hamet. _ [_to_ OZMYN, _thrusting. _]
Our difference now shall soon determined be.
_Almanz. _ Hold, traitor, and defend thyself from me.
[HAMET _leaves_ OZMYN _(who cannot rise), and both
he and_ ZULEMA _fall on_ ALMANZOR, _and press
him; he retires, and_ HAMET, _advancing first, is
run through the body, and falls. The Queen's
Trumpets sound. _ ALMANZOR _pursues_ ZULEMA.
_Lyndar. _ I must make haste some remedy to find:--
Treason, Almanzor, treason! look behind.
[ALMANZOR _looks behind him to see who calls, and_
ZULEMA _takes the advantage, and wounds him; the
Zegrys' Trumpets sound;_ ALMANZOR _turns upon_
ZULEMA, _and wounds him; he falls. The Queens
Trumpets sound. _
_Almanz. _ Now triumph in thy sister's treachery. [_Stabbing him. _
_Zul. _ Hold, hold! I have enough to make me die,
But, that I may in peace resign my breath,
I must confess my crime before my death.
Mine is the guilt; the queen is innocent:
I loved her, and, to compass my intent,
Used force, which Abdelmelech did prevent.
The lie my sister forged; but, O! my fate
Comes on too soon, and I repent too late.
Fair queen, forgive; and let my penitence
Expiate some part of-- [_Dies. _
_Almah. _ Even thy whole offence!
_Almanz. _ [_to the Judges. _]
If aught remains in the sultana's cause,
I here am ready to fulfil the laws.
_Selin. _ The law is fully satisfied, and we
Pronounce the queen and Abdelmelech free.
_Abdelm. _ Heaven, thou art just!
[_The Judges rise from their seats, and go before_
ALMANZOR _to the Queens Scaffold; he unbinds_
_the Queen and_ ABDELMELECH; _they all go off,
the People shouting, and the Trumpets sounding
the while. _
_Boab. _ Before we pay our thanks, or show our joy,
Let us our needful charity employ.
Some skilful surgeon speedily be found,
To apply fit remedies to Ozmyn's wound.
_Benz. _ [_running to OZM. _]
That be my charge: my linen I will tear;
Wash it with tears, and bind it with my hair.
_Ozm. _ With how much pleasure I my pains endure,
And bless the wound which causes such a cure!
[_Exit_ OZM. _led by_ BENZ. _and_ ABEN.
_Boab. _ Some from the place of combat bear the slain. --
Next Lyndaraxa's death I should ordain:
But let her, who this mischief did contrive,
For ever banished from Granada live.
_Lyndar. _ Thou shouldst have punished more, or not at all:
By her thou hast not ruined, thou shalt fall.
The Zegrys shall revenge their branded line,
Betray their gate, and with the Christians join. [_Aside. _
[_Exit_ LYNDARAXA _with_ ALABEZ; _the bodies of
her Brothers are borne after her. _
ALMANZOR, ALMAHIDE, _and_ ESPERANZA, _re-enter to the King. _
_Almah. _ The thanks thus paid, which first to heaven were due,
My next, Almanzor, let me pay to you:
Somewhat there is of more concernment too,
Which 'tis not fit you should in public know.
First let your wounds be dressed with speedy care,
And then you shall the important secret share.
_Almanz. _ Whene'er you speak,
Were my wounds mortal, they should still bleed on;
And I would listen till my life were gone:
My soul should even for your last accent stay,
And then shout out, and with such speed obey,
It should not bait at heaven to stop its way. [_Exit_ ALMANZ.
_Boab. _ 'Tis true, Almanzor did her honour save,
But yet what private business can they have?
Such freedom virtue will not sure allow;
I cannot clear my heart, but must my brow. [_Aside. _
[_He approaches_ ALMAHIDE.
Welcome again, my virtuous, loyal wife;
Welcome to love, to honour, and to life!
[_Goes to salute her, she starts back. _
You seem
As if you from a loathed embrace did go!
_Almah. _ Then briefly will I speak, since you must know
What to the world my future acts will show:
But hear me first, and then my reasons weigh.
'Tis known, how duty led me to obey
My father's choice; and how I since did live,
You, sir, can best your testimony give.
How to your aid I have Almanzor brought,
When by rebellious crowds your life was sought;
Then, how I bore your causeless jealousy,
(For I must speak) and after set you free,
When you were prisoner in the chance of war:
These, sure, are proofs of love.
_Boab. _ I grant they are.
_Almah. _ And could you then, O cruelly unkind!
So ill reward such tenderness of mind?
Could you, denying what our laws afford
The meanest subject, on a traitor's word,
Unheard, condemn, and suffer me to go
To death, and yet no common pity show!
_Boab. _ Love filled my heart even to the brim before;
And then, with too much jealousy, boiled o'er.
_Almah. _ Be't love or jealousy, 'tis such a crime,
That I'm forewarned to trust a second time.
Know, then, my prayers to heaven shall never cease,
To crown your arms in war, your wars with peace;
But from this day I will not know your bed:
Though Almahide still lives, your wife is dead;
And with her dies a love so pure and true,
It could be killed by nothing but by you. [_Exit_ ALMAH.
_Boab. _ Yes; you will spend your life in prayers for me,
And yet this hour my hated rival see.
She might a husband's jealousy forgive;
But she will only for Almanzor live.
It is resolved; I will myself provide
That vengeance, which my useless laws denied;
And, by Almanzor's death, at once remove
The rival of my empire, and my love. [_Exit_ BOAB.
_Enter_ ALMAHIDE, _led by_ ALMANZOR, _and followed by_ ESPERANZA;
_she speaks, entering. _
_Almah. _ How much, Almanzor, to your aid I owe,
Unable to repay, I blush to know;
Yet, forced by need, ere I can clear that score,
I, like ill debtors, come to borrow more.
_Almanz. _ Your new commands I on my knees attend:
I was created for no other end.
Born to be yours, I do by nature serve,
And, like the labouring beast, no thanks deserve.
_Almah. _ Yet first your virtue to your succour call,
For in this hard command you'll need it all.
_Almanz. _ I stand prepared; and whatsoe'er it be,
Nothing is hard to him, who loves like me.
_Almah. _ Then know, I from your love must yet implore
One proof:--that you would never see me more.
_Almanz. _ I must confess, [_Starting back. _
For this last stroke I did no guard provide;
I could suspect no foe was near that side.
From winds and thickening clouds we thunder fear,
None dread it from that quarter which is clear;
And I would fain believe, 'tis but your art
To shew
You knew where deepest you could wound my heart.
_Almah. _ So much respect is to your passion due,
That sure I could not practise arts on you.
But that you may not doubt what I have said,
This hour I have renounced my husband's bed:
Judge, then, how much my fame would injured be,
If, leaving him, I should a lover see.
_Almanz. _ If his unkindness have deserved that curse,
Must I, for loving well, be punished worse?
_Almah. _ Neither your love nor merits I compare,
But my unspotted name must be my care.
_Almanz. _ I have this day established its renown.
_Almah. _ Would you so soon, what you have raised, throw down?
_Almanz. _ But, madam, is not yours a greater guilt,
To ruin him, who has that fabric built?
_Almah. _ No lover should his mistress' prayers withstand,
Yet you contemn my absolute command.
_Almanz. _ 'Tis not contempt,
When your command is issued out too late;
'Tis past my power, and all beyond is fate.
I scarce could leave you, when to exile sent,
Much less when now recalled from banishment;
For if that heat your glances cast were strong,
Your eyes, like glasses, fire, when held so long.
_Almah. _ Then, since you needs will all my weakness know,
I love you; and so well, that you must go.
I am so much obliged, and have withal
A heart so boundless and so prodigal,
I dare not trust myself, or you, to stay,
But, like frank gamesters, must forswear the play.
_Almanz. _ Fate, thou art kind to strike so hard a blow:
I am quite stunned, and past all feeling now.
Yet--can you tell me you have power and will
To save my life, and at that instant kill?
_Almah. _ This, had you staid, you never must have known;
But, now you go, I may with honour own.
_Almanz. _ But, madam, I am forced to disobey:
In your defence my honour bids me stay.
I promised to secure your life and throne,
And, heaven be thanked, that work is yet undone.
_Almah. _ I here make void that promise which you made,
For now I have no farther need of aid.
That vow, which to my plighted lord was given,
I must not break, but may transfer to heaven:
I will with vestals live:
There needs no guard at a religious door;
Few will disturb the praying and the poor.
_Almanz. _ Let me but near that happy temple stay,
And through the grates peep on you once a day;
To famished hope I would no banquet give:
I cannot starve, and wish but just to live.
Thus, as a drowning man
Sinks often, and does still more faintly rise,
With his last hold catching whate'er he spies;
So, fallen from those proud hopes I had before,
Your aid I for a dying wretch implore.
_Almah. _ I cannot your hard destiny withstand,
BOABDELIN, _and Guards above. _
But slip, like bending rushes, from your hand.
Sink all at once, since you must sink at last.
_Almanz. _ Can you that last relief of sight remove,
And thrust me out the utmost line of love!
Then, since my hopes of happiness are gone,
Denied all favours, I will seize this one.
[_Catches her hand, and kisses it. _
_Boab. _ My just revenge no longer I'll forbear:
I've seen too much; I need not stay to hear. [_Descends. _
_Almanz. _ As a small shower
To the parched earth does some refreshment give,
So, in the strength of this, one day I'll live:
A day,--a year,--an age,--for ever, now;
[_Betwixt each word he kisses her hand by force;
she struggling. _
I feel from every touch a new soul flow.
[_She snatches her hand away. _
My hoped eternity of joy is past!
'Twas insupportable, and could not last.
Were heaven not made of less, or duller joy,
'Twould break each minute, and itself destroy.
_Enter King and Guards, below. _
_Boab. _ This, this, is he, for whom thou didst deny
To share my bed:--Let them together die.
_Almah. _ Hear me, my lord.
_Boab. _ Your flattering arts are vain:
Make haste, and execute what I ordain. [_To the Guards. _
_Almanz. _ Cut piece-meal in this cause,
From every wound I should new vigour take,
And every limb should new Almanzors make.
[_He puts himself before the Queen; the Guards
attack him, with the King. _
_Enter_ ABDELMELECH.
_Abdelm. _ What angry god, to exercise his spite, [_To the King. _
Has arm'd your left hand, to cut off your right?
[_The King turns, the fight ceases. _
The foes are entered at the Elvira gate:
False Lyndaraxa has the town betrayed,
And all the Zegrys give the Spaniards aid.
_Boab. _ O mischief, not suspected nor foreseen!
_Abdelm. _ Already they have gained the Zacatin,
And thence the Vivarambla place possest,
While our faint soldiers scarce defend the rest.
The duke of Arcos does one squadron head,
The next by Ferdinand himself is led.
_Almah. _ Now, brave Almanzor, be a god again;
Above our crimes and your own passions reign.
My lord has been by jealousy misled,
To think I was not faithful to his bed.
I can forgive him, though my death he sought,
For too much love can never be a fault.
Protect him, then; and what to his defence
You give not, give to clear my innocence.
_Almanz. _ Listen, sweet heaven, and all ye blessed above,
Take rules of virtue from a mortal love!
You've raised my soul; and if it mount more high,
'Tis as the wren did on the eagle fly.
Yes, I once more will my revenge neglect,
And, whom you can forgive, I can protect.
_Boab. _ How hard a fate is mine, still doomed to shame!
I make occasions for my rival's fame! [_Exeunt. An alarm within. _
_Enter_ FERDINAND, ISABELLA, _Don_ ALONZO D'AGUILAR; _Spaniards and
Ladies. _
_K. Ferd. _ Already more than half the town is gained,
But there is yet a doubtful fight maintained.
_Alonz. _ The fierce young king the entered does attack,
And the more fierce Almanzor drives them back.
_K. Ferd. _ The valiant Moors like raging lions fight;
Each youth encouraged by his lady's sight.
_Q. Isabel. _ I will advance with such a shining train,
That Moorish beauties shall oppose in vain.
Into the press of clashing swords we'll go,
And, where the darts fly thickest, seek the foe.
_K. Ferd. _ May heaven, which has inspired this generous thought,
Avert those dangers you have boldly sought!
Call up more troops; the women, to our shame,
Will ravish from the men their part of fame.
[_Exeunt_ ISABELLA _and Ladies. _
_Enter_ ALABEZ, _and kisses the King's hand. _
_Alabez. _ Fair Lyndaraxa, and the Zegry line,
Have led their forces with your troops to join;
The adverse part, which obstinately fought,
Are broke, and Abdelmelech prisoner brought.
_K. Ferd. _ Fair Lyndaraxa, and her friends, shall find
The effects of an obliged and grateful mind.
_Alabez. _ But, marching by the Vivarambla place,
The combat carried a more doubtful face:
In that vast square the Moors and Spaniards met,
Where the fierce conflict is continued yet;
But with advantage on the adverse side,
Whom fierce Almanzor does to conquest guide.
_K. Ferd. _ With my Castilian foot I'll meet his rage;
[_Is going out: Shouts within are heard,_--Victoria!
Victoria!
But these loud clamours better news presage.
_Enter the_ DUKE OF ARCOS, _and Soldiers; their Swords drawn and
bloody. _
_D. Arcos. _ Granada now is yours; and there remain
No Moors, but such as own the power of Spain.
That squadron, which their king in person led,
We charged, but found Almanzor on their head:
Three several times we did the Moors attack,
And thrice with slaughter did he drive us back:
Our troops then shrunk; and still we lost more ground,
'Till from our queen we needful succour found:
Her guards to our assistance bravely flew,
And with fresh vigour did the fight renew:
At the same time
Did Lyndaraxa with her troops appear,
And, while we charged the front, engaged the rear:
Then fell the king, slain by a Zegry's hand.
_K. Ferd. _ How could he such united force withstand?
_D. Arcos. _ Discouraged with his death, the Moorish powers
Fell back, and, falling back, were pressed by ours;
But as, when winds and rain together crowd,
They swell till they have burst the bladdered cloud;
And first the lightning, flashing deadly clear,
Flies, falls, consumes, kills ere it does appear,--
So from his shrinking troops, Almanzor flew,
Each blow gave wounds, and with each wound he slew:
His force at once I envied and admired,
And rushing forward, where my men retired,
Advanced alone.
_K. Ferd. _ You hazarded too far
Your person, and the fortune of the war.
_D. Arcos. _ Already both our arms for fight did bare,
Already held them threatening in the air,
When heaven (it must be heaven) my sight did guide
To view his arm, upon whose wrist I spied
A ruby cross in diamond bracelets tied;
And just above it, in the brawnier part,
By nature was engraved a bloody heart:
Struck with these tokens, which so well I knew,
And staggering back some paces, I withdrew:
He followed, and supposed it was my fear;
When, from above, a shrill voice reached his ear:--
"Strike not thy father! "--it was heard to cry;
Amazed, and casting round his wondrous eye,
He stopped; then, thinking that his fears were vain,
He lifted up his thundering arm again:
Again the voice withheld him from my death;
"Spare, spare his life," it cried, "who gave thee breath! "
Once more he stopped; then threw his sword away;
"Blessed shade," he said, "I hear thee, I obey
Thy sacred voice;" then, in the sight of all,
He at my feet, I on his neck did fall.
_K. Ferd. _ O blessed event!
_D. Arcos. _ The Moors no longer fought;
But all their safety by submission sought:
Mean time my son grew faint with loss of blood,
And on his bending sword supported stood;
Yet, with a voice beyond his strength, he cried,
"Lead me to live or die by Almahide. "
_K. Ferd. _ I am not for his wounds less grieved than you:
For, if what now my soul divines prove true,
This is that son, whom in his infancy
You lost, when by my father forced to fly.
_D. Arcos. _ His sister's beauty did my passion move,
(The crime for which I suffered was my love. )
Our marriage known, to sea we took our flight:
There, in a storm, Almanzor first saw light.
On his right arm a bloody heart was graved,
(The mark by which, this day, my life was saved:)
The bracelets and the cross his mother tied
About his wrist, ere she in childbed died.
How we were captives made, when she was dead,
And how Almanzor was in Afric bred,
Some other hour you may at leisure hear,
For see, the queen in triumph does appear.
_Enter_ QUEEN ISABELLA, LYNDARAXA, _Ladies, Moors and Spaniards
mixed as Guards,_ ABDELMELECH, ABENAMAR, SELIN, _Prisoners. _
_K. Ferd. _ [_embracing Q. Isabel. _]
All stories which Granada's conquest tell,
Shall celebrate the name of Isabel.
Your ladies too, who, in their country's cause,
Led on the men, shall share in your applause;
And, for your sakes, henceforward I ordain,
No lady's dower shall questioned be in Spain,
Fair Lyndaraxa, for the help she lent,
Shall, under tribute, have this government.
_Abdelm. _ O heaven, that I should live to see this day!
_Lyndar. _ You murmur now, but you shall soon obey.
I knew this empire to my fate was owed;
Heaven held it back as long as e'er it could;
For thee, base wretch, I want a torture yet-- [_To_ ABDELM.
I'll cage thee; thou shalt be my Bajazet.
I on no pavement but on thee will tread;
And, when I mount, my foot shall know thy head.
_Abdelm. _ (_Stabbing her with a poniard. _)
This first shall know thy heart.
_Lyndar. _ O! I am slain!
_Abdelm. _ Now, boast thy country is betrayed to Spain.
_K. Ferd. _ Look to the lady! --Seize the murderer!
_Abdelm. _ (_Stabbing himself. _)
I do myself that justice I did her.
Thy blood I to thy ruined country give, [_To_ LYNDAR.
But love too well thy murder to out-live.
Forgive a love, excused by its excess,
Which, had it not been cruel, had been less.
Condemn my passion, then, but pardon me,
And think I murdered him who murdered thee. [_Dies. _
_Lyndar. _ Die for us both; I have not leisure now;
A crown is come, and will not fate allow:
And yet I feel something like death is near,
My guards, my guards,--
Let not that ugly skeleton appear!
Sure destiny mistakes; this death's not mine;
She dotes, and meant to cut another line.
Tell her I am a queen;--but 'tis too late;
Dying, I charge rebellion on my fate.
Bow down, ye slaves:-- [_To the Moors. _
Bow quickly down, and your submission show. -- [_They bow. _
I'm pleased to taste an empire ere I go. [_Dies. _
_Selin. _ She's dead, and here her proud ambition ends.
_Aben. _ Such fortune still such black designs attends.
_K. Ferd. _ Remove those mournful objects from our eyes,
And see performed their funeral obsequies.
[_The bodies are carried off. _
_Enter_ ALMANZOR _and_ ALMAHIDE, OZMYN _and_ BENZAYDA; ALMAHIDE
_brought in a chair;_ ALMANZOR _led betwixt Soldiers. _ ISABELLA
_salutes_ ALMAHIDE _in dumb show. _
_D. Arcos. _ (_Presenting_ ALMANZOR _to the King. _)
See here that son, whom I with pride call mine;
And who dishonours not your royal line.
_K. Ferd. _ I'm now secure, this sceptre, which I gain,
Shall be continued in the power of Spain;
Since he, who could alone my foes defend,
By birth and honour is become my friend;
Yet I can own no joy, nor conquest boast, [_To_ ALMANZ.
While in this blood I see how dear it cost.
_Almanz. _ This honour to my veins new blood will bring;
Streams cannot fail, fed by so high a spring.
But all court-customs I so little know,
That I may fail in those respects I owe.
I bring a heart which homage never knew;
Yet it finds something of itself in you:
Something so kingly, that my haughty mind
Is drawn to yours, because 'tis of a kind.
_Q. Isabel. _ And yet that soul, which bears itself so high,
If fame be true, admits a sovereignty.
This queen, in her fair eyes, such fetters brings,
As chain that heart, which scorns the power of kings.
_Almah. _ Little of charm in these sad eyes appears;
If they had any, now 'tis lost in tears.
A crown, and husband, ravished in one day! --
Excuse a grief, I cannot choose but pay.
_Q. Isabel. _ Have courage, madam; heaven has joys in store,
To recompence those losses you deplore.
_Almah. _ I know your God can all my woes redress;
To him I made my vows in my distress:
And, what a misbeliever vowed this day,
Though not a queen, a Christian yet shall pay.
_Q. Isabel. _ (_Embracing her. _)
That Christian name you shall receive from me,
And Isabella of Granada be.
_Benz. _ This blessed change we all with joy receive;
And beg to learn that faith which you believe.
_Q. Isabel. _ With reverence for those holy rites prepare;
And all commit your fortunes to my care.
_K.
The accusers and accused bring face to face.
Set guards, and let the lists be opened wide;
And may just heaven assist the juster side!
_Almah. _ What! not one tender look, one passing word?
Farewell, my much unkind, but still loved lord!
Your throne was for my humble fate too high,
And therefore heaven thinks fit that I should die.
My story be forgot, when I am dead,
Lest it should fright some other from your bed;
And, to forget me, may you soon adore
Some happier maid,--yet none could love you more.
But may you never think me innocent,
Lest it should cause you trouble to repent.
_Boab. _ 'Tis pity so much beauty should not live; [_Aside. _
Yet I too much am injured, to forgive. [_Goes to his seat. _
_Trumpets: Then enter two Moors, bearing two naked swords before the
accusers_ ZULEMA _and_ HAMET, _who follow them. The Judges seat
themselves; the_ QUEEN _and_ ABDELMELECH _are led to the Scaffold. _
_Alabez. _ Say for what end you thus in arms appear;
What are your names, and what demand you here?
_Zul. _ The Zegrys' ancient race our lineage claims;
And Zulema and Hamet are our names.
Like loyal subjects in these lists we stand,
And justice in our king's behalf demand.
_Hamet. _ For whom, in witness of what both have seen,
Bound by our duty, we appeach the queen
And Abdelmelech, of adultery.
_Zul. _ Which, like true knights, we will maintain, or die.
_Alabez. _ Swear on the Alcoran your cause is right,
And Mahomet so prosper you in fight.
[_They touch their foreheads with the Alcoran,
and bow. _
_Trumpets on the other side of the Stage; two Moors, as before, with
bare swords before_ ALMANZOR _and_ OZMYN.
_Selin. _ Say for what end you thus in arms appear;
What are your names, and what demand you here?
_Almanz. _ Ozmyn is his, Almanzor is my name;
We come as champions of the queen's fair fame.
_Ozm. _ To prove these Zegrys, like false traitors, lie;
Which, like true knights, we will maintain, or die.
_Selin. _ [_to_ ALMAH. ]
Madam, do you for champions take these two,
By their success to live or die?
_Almah. _ I do.
_Selin. _ Swear on the Alcoran your cause is right;
And Mahomet so prosper you in fight. [_They kiss the Alcoran. _
[OZMYN _and_ BENZAYDA _embrace, and take leave
in dumb show; while_ LYNDARAXA _speaks to her
Brother. _
_Lyndar. _ If you o'ercome, let neither of them live,
But use with care the advantages I give:
One of their swords in fight shall useless be;
The bearer of it is suborned by me. [_She and_ BENZAYDA _retire. _
_Alabez. _ Now, principals and seconds, all advance,
And each of you assist his fellow's chance.
_Selin. _ The wind and sun we equally divide,
So let the event of arms the truth decide.
The chances of the fight, and every wound,
The trumpets, on the victor's part, resound.
[_The Trumpets sound;_ ALMANZOR _and_ ZULEMA
_meet and fight;_ OZMYN _and_ HAMET. _After
some passes, the sword of_ OZMYN _breaks;
he retires, defending himself, and is
wounded; the Zegrys' Trumpets sound their
advantage. _ ALMANZOR, _in the mean time,
drives_ ZULEMA _to the farther end of the
Stage, till, hearing the Trumpets of the
adverse Party, he looks back, and sees_
OZMYN'S _misfortune; he makes at_ ZULEMA
_just as_ OZMYN _falls, in retiring, and_
HAMET _is thrusting at him. _
_Hamet. _ [_to_ OZMYN, _thrusting. _]
Our difference now shall soon determined be.
_Almanz. _ Hold, traitor, and defend thyself from me.
[HAMET _leaves_ OZMYN _(who cannot rise), and both
he and_ ZULEMA _fall on_ ALMANZOR, _and press
him; he retires, and_ HAMET, _advancing first, is
run through the body, and falls. The Queen's
Trumpets sound. _ ALMANZOR _pursues_ ZULEMA.
_Lyndar. _ I must make haste some remedy to find:--
Treason, Almanzor, treason! look behind.
[ALMANZOR _looks behind him to see who calls, and_
ZULEMA _takes the advantage, and wounds him; the
Zegrys' Trumpets sound;_ ALMANZOR _turns upon_
ZULEMA, _and wounds him; he falls. The Queens
Trumpets sound. _
_Almanz. _ Now triumph in thy sister's treachery. [_Stabbing him. _
_Zul. _ Hold, hold! I have enough to make me die,
But, that I may in peace resign my breath,
I must confess my crime before my death.
Mine is the guilt; the queen is innocent:
I loved her, and, to compass my intent,
Used force, which Abdelmelech did prevent.
The lie my sister forged; but, O! my fate
Comes on too soon, and I repent too late.
Fair queen, forgive; and let my penitence
Expiate some part of-- [_Dies. _
_Almah. _ Even thy whole offence!
_Almanz. _ [_to the Judges. _]
If aught remains in the sultana's cause,
I here am ready to fulfil the laws.
_Selin. _ The law is fully satisfied, and we
Pronounce the queen and Abdelmelech free.
_Abdelm. _ Heaven, thou art just!
[_The Judges rise from their seats, and go before_
ALMANZOR _to the Queens Scaffold; he unbinds_
_the Queen and_ ABDELMELECH; _they all go off,
the People shouting, and the Trumpets sounding
the while. _
_Boab. _ Before we pay our thanks, or show our joy,
Let us our needful charity employ.
Some skilful surgeon speedily be found,
To apply fit remedies to Ozmyn's wound.
_Benz. _ [_running to OZM. _]
That be my charge: my linen I will tear;
Wash it with tears, and bind it with my hair.
_Ozm. _ With how much pleasure I my pains endure,
And bless the wound which causes such a cure!
[_Exit_ OZM. _led by_ BENZ. _and_ ABEN.
_Boab. _ Some from the place of combat bear the slain. --
Next Lyndaraxa's death I should ordain:
But let her, who this mischief did contrive,
For ever banished from Granada live.
_Lyndar. _ Thou shouldst have punished more, or not at all:
By her thou hast not ruined, thou shalt fall.
The Zegrys shall revenge their branded line,
Betray their gate, and with the Christians join. [_Aside. _
[_Exit_ LYNDARAXA _with_ ALABEZ; _the bodies of
her Brothers are borne after her. _
ALMANZOR, ALMAHIDE, _and_ ESPERANZA, _re-enter to the King. _
_Almah. _ The thanks thus paid, which first to heaven were due,
My next, Almanzor, let me pay to you:
Somewhat there is of more concernment too,
Which 'tis not fit you should in public know.
First let your wounds be dressed with speedy care,
And then you shall the important secret share.
_Almanz. _ Whene'er you speak,
Were my wounds mortal, they should still bleed on;
And I would listen till my life were gone:
My soul should even for your last accent stay,
And then shout out, and with such speed obey,
It should not bait at heaven to stop its way. [_Exit_ ALMANZ.
_Boab. _ 'Tis true, Almanzor did her honour save,
But yet what private business can they have?
Such freedom virtue will not sure allow;
I cannot clear my heart, but must my brow. [_Aside. _
[_He approaches_ ALMAHIDE.
Welcome again, my virtuous, loyal wife;
Welcome to love, to honour, and to life!
[_Goes to salute her, she starts back. _
You seem
As if you from a loathed embrace did go!
_Almah. _ Then briefly will I speak, since you must know
What to the world my future acts will show:
But hear me first, and then my reasons weigh.
'Tis known, how duty led me to obey
My father's choice; and how I since did live,
You, sir, can best your testimony give.
How to your aid I have Almanzor brought,
When by rebellious crowds your life was sought;
Then, how I bore your causeless jealousy,
(For I must speak) and after set you free,
When you were prisoner in the chance of war:
These, sure, are proofs of love.
_Boab. _ I grant they are.
_Almah. _ And could you then, O cruelly unkind!
So ill reward such tenderness of mind?
Could you, denying what our laws afford
The meanest subject, on a traitor's word,
Unheard, condemn, and suffer me to go
To death, and yet no common pity show!
_Boab. _ Love filled my heart even to the brim before;
And then, with too much jealousy, boiled o'er.
_Almah. _ Be't love or jealousy, 'tis such a crime,
That I'm forewarned to trust a second time.
Know, then, my prayers to heaven shall never cease,
To crown your arms in war, your wars with peace;
But from this day I will not know your bed:
Though Almahide still lives, your wife is dead;
And with her dies a love so pure and true,
It could be killed by nothing but by you. [_Exit_ ALMAH.
_Boab. _ Yes; you will spend your life in prayers for me,
And yet this hour my hated rival see.
She might a husband's jealousy forgive;
But she will only for Almanzor live.
It is resolved; I will myself provide
That vengeance, which my useless laws denied;
And, by Almanzor's death, at once remove
The rival of my empire, and my love. [_Exit_ BOAB.
_Enter_ ALMAHIDE, _led by_ ALMANZOR, _and followed by_ ESPERANZA;
_she speaks, entering. _
_Almah. _ How much, Almanzor, to your aid I owe,
Unable to repay, I blush to know;
Yet, forced by need, ere I can clear that score,
I, like ill debtors, come to borrow more.
_Almanz. _ Your new commands I on my knees attend:
I was created for no other end.
Born to be yours, I do by nature serve,
And, like the labouring beast, no thanks deserve.
_Almah. _ Yet first your virtue to your succour call,
For in this hard command you'll need it all.
_Almanz. _ I stand prepared; and whatsoe'er it be,
Nothing is hard to him, who loves like me.
_Almah. _ Then know, I from your love must yet implore
One proof:--that you would never see me more.
_Almanz. _ I must confess, [_Starting back. _
For this last stroke I did no guard provide;
I could suspect no foe was near that side.
From winds and thickening clouds we thunder fear,
None dread it from that quarter which is clear;
And I would fain believe, 'tis but your art
To shew
You knew where deepest you could wound my heart.
_Almah. _ So much respect is to your passion due,
That sure I could not practise arts on you.
But that you may not doubt what I have said,
This hour I have renounced my husband's bed:
Judge, then, how much my fame would injured be,
If, leaving him, I should a lover see.
_Almanz. _ If his unkindness have deserved that curse,
Must I, for loving well, be punished worse?
_Almah. _ Neither your love nor merits I compare,
But my unspotted name must be my care.
_Almanz. _ I have this day established its renown.
_Almah. _ Would you so soon, what you have raised, throw down?
_Almanz. _ But, madam, is not yours a greater guilt,
To ruin him, who has that fabric built?
_Almah. _ No lover should his mistress' prayers withstand,
Yet you contemn my absolute command.
_Almanz. _ 'Tis not contempt,
When your command is issued out too late;
'Tis past my power, and all beyond is fate.
I scarce could leave you, when to exile sent,
Much less when now recalled from banishment;
For if that heat your glances cast were strong,
Your eyes, like glasses, fire, when held so long.
_Almah. _ Then, since you needs will all my weakness know,
I love you; and so well, that you must go.
I am so much obliged, and have withal
A heart so boundless and so prodigal,
I dare not trust myself, or you, to stay,
But, like frank gamesters, must forswear the play.
_Almanz. _ Fate, thou art kind to strike so hard a blow:
I am quite stunned, and past all feeling now.
Yet--can you tell me you have power and will
To save my life, and at that instant kill?
_Almah. _ This, had you staid, you never must have known;
But, now you go, I may with honour own.
_Almanz. _ But, madam, I am forced to disobey:
In your defence my honour bids me stay.
I promised to secure your life and throne,
And, heaven be thanked, that work is yet undone.
_Almah. _ I here make void that promise which you made,
For now I have no farther need of aid.
That vow, which to my plighted lord was given,
I must not break, but may transfer to heaven:
I will with vestals live:
There needs no guard at a religious door;
Few will disturb the praying and the poor.
_Almanz. _ Let me but near that happy temple stay,
And through the grates peep on you once a day;
To famished hope I would no banquet give:
I cannot starve, and wish but just to live.
Thus, as a drowning man
Sinks often, and does still more faintly rise,
With his last hold catching whate'er he spies;
So, fallen from those proud hopes I had before,
Your aid I for a dying wretch implore.
_Almah. _ I cannot your hard destiny withstand,
BOABDELIN, _and Guards above. _
But slip, like bending rushes, from your hand.
Sink all at once, since you must sink at last.
_Almanz. _ Can you that last relief of sight remove,
And thrust me out the utmost line of love!
Then, since my hopes of happiness are gone,
Denied all favours, I will seize this one.
[_Catches her hand, and kisses it. _
_Boab. _ My just revenge no longer I'll forbear:
I've seen too much; I need not stay to hear. [_Descends. _
_Almanz. _ As a small shower
To the parched earth does some refreshment give,
So, in the strength of this, one day I'll live:
A day,--a year,--an age,--for ever, now;
[_Betwixt each word he kisses her hand by force;
she struggling. _
I feel from every touch a new soul flow.
[_She snatches her hand away. _
My hoped eternity of joy is past!
'Twas insupportable, and could not last.
Were heaven not made of less, or duller joy,
'Twould break each minute, and itself destroy.
_Enter King and Guards, below. _
_Boab. _ This, this, is he, for whom thou didst deny
To share my bed:--Let them together die.
_Almah. _ Hear me, my lord.
_Boab. _ Your flattering arts are vain:
Make haste, and execute what I ordain. [_To the Guards. _
_Almanz. _ Cut piece-meal in this cause,
From every wound I should new vigour take,
And every limb should new Almanzors make.
[_He puts himself before the Queen; the Guards
attack him, with the King. _
_Enter_ ABDELMELECH.
_Abdelm. _ What angry god, to exercise his spite, [_To the King. _
Has arm'd your left hand, to cut off your right?
[_The King turns, the fight ceases. _
The foes are entered at the Elvira gate:
False Lyndaraxa has the town betrayed,
And all the Zegrys give the Spaniards aid.
_Boab. _ O mischief, not suspected nor foreseen!
_Abdelm. _ Already they have gained the Zacatin,
And thence the Vivarambla place possest,
While our faint soldiers scarce defend the rest.
The duke of Arcos does one squadron head,
The next by Ferdinand himself is led.
_Almah. _ Now, brave Almanzor, be a god again;
Above our crimes and your own passions reign.
My lord has been by jealousy misled,
To think I was not faithful to his bed.
I can forgive him, though my death he sought,
For too much love can never be a fault.
Protect him, then; and what to his defence
You give not, give to clear my innocence.
_Almanz. _ Listen, sweet heaven, and all ye blessed above,
Take rules of virtue from a mortal love!
You've raised my soul; and if it mount more high,
'Tis as the wren did on the eagle fly.
Yes, I once more will my revenge neglect,
And, whom you can forgive, I can protect.
_Boab. _ How hard a fate is mine, still doomed to shame!
I make occasions for my rival's fame! [_Exeunt. An alarm within. _
_Enter_ FERDINAND, ISABELLA, _Don_ ALONZO D'AGUILAR; _Spaniards and
Ladies. _
_K. Ferd. _ Already more than half the town is gained,
But there is yet a doubtful fight maintained.
_Alonz. _ The fierce young king the entered does attack,
And the more fierce Almanzor drives them back.
_K. Ferd. _ The valiant Moors like raging lions fight;
Each youth encouraged by his lady's sight.
_Q. Isabel. _ I will advance with such a shining train,
That Moorish beauties shall oppose in vain.
Into the press of clashing swords we'll go,
And, where the darts fly thickest, seek the foe.
_K. Ferd. _ May heaven, which has inspired this generous thought,
Avert those dangers you have boldly sought!
Call up more troops; the women, to our shame,
Will ravish from the men their part of fame.
[_Exeunt_ ISABELLA _and Ladies. _
_Enter_ ALABEZ, _and kisses the King's hand. _
_Alabez. _ Fair Lyndaraxa, and the Zegry line,
Have led their forces with your troops to join;
The adverse part, which obstinately fought,
Are broke, and Abdelmelech prisoner brought.
_K. Ferd. _ Fair Lyndaraxa, and her friends, shall find
The effects of an obliged and grateful mind.
_Alabez. _ But, marching by the Vivarambla place,
The combat carried a more doubtful face:
In that vast square the Moors and Spaniards met,
Where the fierce conflict is continued yet;
But with advantage on the adverse side,
Whom fierce Almanzor does to conquest guide.
_K. Ferd. _ With my Castilian foot I'll meet his rage;
[_Is going out: Shouts within are heard,_--Victoria!
Victoria!
But these loud clamours better news presage.
_Enter the_ DUKE OF ARCOS, _and Soldiers; their Swords drawn and
bloody. _
_D. Arcos. _ Granada now is yours; and there remain
No Moors, but such as own the power of Spain.
That squadron, which their king in person led,
We charged, but found Almanzor on their head:
Three several times we did the Moors attack,
And thrice with slaughter did he drive us back:
Our troops then shrunk; and still we lost more ground,
'Till from our queen we needful succour found:
Her guards to our assistance bravely flew,
And with fresh vigour did the fight renew:
At the same time
Did Lyndaraxa with her troops appear,
And, while we charged the front, engaged the rear:
Then fell the king, slain by a Zegry's hand.
_K. Ferd. _ How could he such united force withstand?
_D. Arcos. _ Discouraged with his death, the Moorish powers
Fell back, and, falling back, were pressed by ours;
But as, when winds and rain together crowd,
They swell till they have burst the bladdered cloud;
And first the lightning, flashing deadly clear,
Flies, falls, consumes, kills ere it does appear,--
So from his shrinking troops, Almanzor flew,
Each blow gave wounds, and with each wound he slew:
His force at once I envied and admired,
And rushing forward, where my men retired,
Advanced alone.
_K. Ferd. _ You hazarded too far
Your person, and the fortune of the war.
_D. Arcos. _ Already both our arms for fight did bare,
Already held them threatening in the air,
When heaven (it must be heaven) my sight did guide
To view his arm, upon whose wrist I spied
A ruby cross in diamond bracelets tied;
And just above it, in the brawnier part,
By nature was engraved a bloody heart:
Struck with these tokens, which so well I knew,
And staggering back some paces, I withdrew:
He followed, and supposed it was my fear;
When, from above, a shrill voice reached his ear:--
"Strike not thy father! "--it was heard to cry;
Amazed, and casting round his wondrous eye,
He stopped; then, thinking that his fears were vain,
He lifted up his thundering arm again:
Again the voice withheld him from my death;
"Spare, spare his life," it cried, "who gave thee breath! "
Once more he stopped; then threw his sword away;
"Blessed shade," he said, "I hear thee, I obey
Thy sacred voice;" then, in the sight of all,
He at my feet, I on his neck did fall.
_K. Ferd. _ O blessed event!
_D. Arcos. _ The Moors no longer fought;
But all their safety by submission sought:
Mean time my son grew faint with loss of blood,
And on his bending sword supported stood;
Yet, with a voice beyond his strength, he cried,
"Lead me to live or die by Almahide. "
_K. Ferd. _ I am not for his wounds less grieved than you:
For, if what now my soul divines prove true,
This is that son, whom in his infancy
You lost, when by my father forced to fly.
_D. Arcos. _ His sister's beauty did my passion move,
(The crime for which I suffered was my love. )
Our marriage known, to sea we took our flight:
There, in a storm, Almanzor first saw light.
On his right arm a bloody heart was graved,
(The mark by which, this day, my life was saved:)
The bracelets and the cross his mother tied
About his wrist, ere she in childbed died.
How we were captives made, when she was dead,
And how Almanzor was in Afric bred,
Some other hour you may at leisure hear,
For see, the queen in triumph does appear.
_Enter_ QUEEN ISABELLA, LYNDARAXA, _Ladies, Moors and Spaniards
mixed as Guards,_ ABDELMELECH, ABENAMAR, SELIN, _Prisoners. _
_K. Ferd. _ [_embracing Q. Isabel. _]
All stories which Granada's conquest tell,
Shall celebrate the name of Isabel.
Your ladies too, who, in their country's cause,
Led on the men, shall share in your applause;
And, for your sakes, henceforward I ordain,
No lady's dower shall questioned be in Spain,
Fair Lyndaraxa, for the help she lent,
Shall, under tribute, have this government.
_Abdelm. _ O heaven, that I should live to see this day!
_Lyndar. _ You murmur now, but you shall soon obey.
I knew this empire to my fate was owed;
Heaven held it back as long as e'er it could;
For thee, base wretch, I want a torture yet-- [_To_ ABDELM.
I'll cage thee; thou shalt be my Bajazet.
I on no pavement but on thee will tread;
And, when I mount, my foot shall know thy head.
_Abdelm. _ (_Stabbing her with a poniard. _)
This first shall know thy heart.
_Lyndar. _ O! I am slain!
_Abdelm. _ Now, boast thy country is betrayed to Spain.
_K. Ferd. _ Look to the lady! --Seize the murderer!
_Abdelm. _ (_Stabbing himself. _)
I do myself that justice I did her.
Thy blood I to thy ruined country give, [_To_ LYNDAR.
But love too well thy murder to out-live.
Forgive a love, excused by its excess,
Which, had it not been cruel, had been less.
Condemn my passion, then, but pardon me,
And think I murdered him who murdered thee. [_Dies. _
_Lyndar. _ Die for us both; I have not leisure now;
A crown is come, and will not fate allow:
And yet I feel something like death is near,
My guards, my guards,--
Let not that ugly skeleton appear!
Sure destiny mistakes; this death's not mine;
She dotes, and meant to cut another line.
Tell her I am a queen;--but 'tis too late;
Dying, I charge rebellion on my fate.
Bow down, ye slaves:-- [_To the Moors. _
Bow quickly down, and your submission show. -- [_They bow. _
I'm pleased to taste an empire ere I go. [_Dies. _
_Selin. _ She's dead, and here her proud ambition ends.
_Aben. _ Such fortune still such black designs attends.
_K. Ferd. _ Remove those mournful objects from our eyes,
And see performed their funeral obsequies.
[_The bodies are carried off. _
_Enter_ ALMANZOR _and_ ALMAHIDE, OZMYN _and_ BENZAYDA; ALMAHIDE
_brought in a chair;_ ALMANZOR _led betwixt Soldiers. _ ISABELLA
_salutes_ ALMAHIDE _in dumb show. _
_D. Arcos. _ (_Presenting_ ALMANZOR _to the King. _)
See here that son, whom I with pride call mine;
And who dishonours not your royal line.
_K. Ferd. _ I'm now secure, this sceptre, which I gain,
Shall be continued in the power of Spain;
Since he, who could alone my foes defend,
By birth and honour is become my friend;
Yet I can own no joy, nor conquest boast, [_To_ ALMANZ.
While in this blood I see how dear it cost.
_Almanz. _ This honour to my veins new blood will bring;
Streams cannot fail, fed by so high a spring.
But all court-customs I so little know,
That I may fail in those respects I owe.
I bring a heart which homage never knew;
Yet it finds something of itself in you:
Something so kingly, that my haughty mind
Is drawn to yours, because 'tis of a kind.
_Q. Isabel. _ And yet that soul, which bears itself so high,
If fame be true, admits a sovereignty.
This queen, in her fair eyes, such fetters brings,
As chain that heart, which scorns the power of kings.
_Almah. _ Little of charm in these sad eyes appears;
If they had any, now 'tis lost in tears.
A crown, and husband, ravished in one day! --
Excuse a grief, I cannot choose but pay.
_Q. Isabel. _ Have courage, madam; heaven has joys in store,
To recompence those losses you deplore.
_Almah. _ I know your God can all my woes redress;
To him I made my vows in my distress:
And, what a misbeliever vowed this day,
Though not a queen, a Christian yet shall pay.
_Q. Isabel. _ (_Embracing her. _)
That Christian name you shall receive from me,
And Isabella of Granada be.
_Benz. _ This blessed change we all with joy receive;
And beg to learn that faith which you believe.
_Q. Isabel. _ With reverence for those holy rites prepare;
And all commit your fortunes to my care.
_K.
