».> ^^ga i w- . „ ffB» p r>in— ■! ■,■ PVIODERN STANDARD DRAMA EDITED BY EPES SARGENT No. Lll. E V A D N E OR, THE STATUE. IN FIVE ACTS. BY ttlGHARD SHEIL WITH THE STAGE BUSINESS, CAST OF CHARACTERS, COS- TUMES, RELATIVE POSITIONS, &c. NEW-VOnKj Vm. TAYLOR & CO., 18 AnnStreet. BALTIMOBE, SID./. WIL & HENRY TAYLOR, Sun Iroa BuMngg. PRICE 12 1-2 CENTS. iESSSJ PROSPECTUS OF THE AMERICAN DEAMA: A Series of Plays by American Authors. Tn« Bubicribers, publishers of the "Modem Standard Drama," aware of the great diflBculty experienced by Ameri- can dramatic authors, in bringing their productions before the public, either on the Stage, or through the Frees, propose to aid them by the publication of a serial work, with the above title. This publication is to consist solely of plays written by American authors, which have either been performed or not, as the caM may be. 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No. Lll. E V A D N E OR, THE STATUE. IN FIVE ACTS. BY RICHARD SHEIL. fvITll THE STAGE BUSINESS, CASTS OF CH5^RACTEHS. COSTUMES, REJ.ATIVE POSITIONS, ETC. i\U':W-YOiaC: WM. TAYLOR & CO., 18 Ann-Street. BALTIMORE, MI).,: WM. & HENRY TAYLOR, Sun Iron Buildings. PRICE 12 1-2 CENTS EDITORIAL INTKODUCnON. The following is the preface of the author of the London edi- tion of this play, published by Murray, in 1819 : — " The author has employed a part of the fable of Shirley's * l^ray- tor,^ in the construction of his plot. In that tragedy, a kinsinan, and favoi-ite of the Duke of Florence, contrives to excite in him a dishono- rable passion for the sister of a Florentine nobleman, as the means of procuring the murder of the Duke by the hand of the injured brother; and thus opening the way for his own elevation to the throne. " To that extent only, the plot of this tragedy is derived from Shir- ley. The incidents, situations, distribution, charactei's, and language, such as they are, the author hopes he may be pardoned for observing, are his own. It will, perhaps, be thought, that this detracts from his claim to the merit of originality — he does not think so. No one con- tends against the originality of ' Douglas,' because Home took his plot from an old ballad, and even profited by the ' Merope' of Voltaire. Rowe's * Fair Penitent' is a a still stronger case; that fine tragedy is modelled on Massinger's 'Fatal Dowry ;' Otway and Southerne rai^ely invented their plots. " The author ti-usts his introduction of these names will not be misin- terpreted. He mentions them for the purpose of justifying himself, by the authority of their example." It was when a young man, and engaged in the study of the law, that Mr. Shiel betook hin»self to dramatic writing, with the view of increasing an income, which was by no means too abun- dant for his wants. The success of " The Apostate^" his first production, was encouraging; and " Bellaraira" and '* Evadne" soon followed. The last named-play is that by which he is most favorably known in the theatrical, if not the literary vvorld. It was written for Miss O'Niell, who, in the part of the heroine, justified the author's estimate of her powers, and won new lau rels for herself and him. The following remarks upon the play and its performance, by one who witnessed one of its earliest re presentations, seem to us just and appropriate : — YX EDITORIAL INTRODUCTION " To the plot and the incidents, by which it is worked out. we can olfer ahnost unquahfied praise. It has quite enough oi unitv for all the purposes of the drama. The guilty ambition of Ludovico is the spring which sets every part in morion. Every incident flows naturally an"d intelligibly from its immedi- ate and assigned cause, and all conduce to bear him on nearrr towards the object of his desires — the crown — till at length, in the last scene, he is on the point of seizing it — but at the very moment when he seems to feel its golden round upon his brow, and in imagination presses the sceptre in his grasp, retributi.on falls upon him like a thunderbolt, and closes his career. " The events on which the chief interest of the piece depends, are brought about with great skill. They are every one made ' probable to thinking.' It is impossible for Vicentio to resist tho evidence which Ludovico offers him of Evadnei's falsehood, when coupled with the changing of the pictures — it impossible for Co- lonna to refuse the office which Ludovico forces upon him, of killing the King — and it is impossible for the King himself — young and pot wholly depraved as he is — to withstand the ap- peal which Evadne makes to him, in the shadowy presence of her great and glorious ancestors. The minor incidents, too — the treachery of Olivia — the combat between Colonna and Vi- centio — the intended sacrifice of his hand, which Vicentio makes to Olivia, &c., are all absolutely essential to the progress of the plot, and yet none have the appearance of being forced, or out of place. " The charm of the piece is the character of Evadne. She is a woman in the truest and strictest, yet most delightful sense of the term. Love, trusting and endearing love, is the very breath of hpr existence. She has deliberately chosen T^centio to be lord of her life — the home and temple of her thoughts and affections — and nothing can turn them aside from their course. Ke may discard her, but she cannot forsake him. " Of the language of the pla\' we must speak in terms of cen- sure. It is everywhere disfigured by marks of feebleness and haste. The imagery is frequently harsh and extravagant, or far- fetched and alFectcd, or made up of mere commonplaces. •' It would be difficult for a play to be better acted throughout, EDrrORIAL IXTIIODUCTION. Vll than this was on its first presentation at Covent Garden. Mr. Macready's Ludovico displayed finished judgment in every part. Some passages of it were very fine — particularly those in which he resumes his natural haughty and ambitious character, after he has been hypocritically humble before the IGng. Mr. Young played 'Co/onna in a fine, free, loose, oriental style ; and he gave the declamatory parts with great power. The young and high- spirited Vicentio \vq.< also extremely well adapted to Mr. C. Kemble. But Miss O'Neill in Evadne, was really and truly herself. The character is better suited to her powers than any she has yet played, except, perhaps, Julia and Dcsdemona.'^ This play is rather better known to the frequenters of the pro- vincial theatres than to those of the metropolis ; but it has me- rits and capabilities, which will long redeem it from obscurit3\ Remarkable effect is given to the character of Evadne by Mrs, Shaw, whose fine talents ought to be oftener exerted in this and kindred parts. This play was originally produced at CovenJ Garden, in 18ia CAST OF CHARACTERS. Carent Garden, 1313. Bouery, 1811 The King of Naples 3Ir. Abbott. Mr. Jordan. liudotico, his favourite •' Macready. " .N'rafie. Coionna " Young-. •' Booth. Vicentio " C. Kenible. " Clarke. Spalatro " Connor. " Vouue. Ecadne Miss O'Neill. Mrs. Shaw. Olivia Mrs. Faucit. '* MadiwD. ^c^vs.— Naples. COSTUMES. THE KI\G. — Kinp's shirt of royal purple velvet, reaching nearly to the ancle, handsomely trimmed with pold leather and spanprhs, al.-o with ernine, hanging sieeve.<. with tijrht ones unrlcr; richly trimmed over-robe of dark jrreen velvet and gold, wiiite silk tights, black velvet shoes, and handsome fillet of jewels, &c. LUDOVICO.— Cream-coloured tight pantaloons, trimmed up the sidrs with red and pold, jacket and fly to m".tc!i, same style as lago's, white plumes and cap, yellow Hessian boots, gold tassels, sword, and gauntlets. COLO.VNA. — Same style as Ludovico, but scarlet tights trimmed with gold, yellow jacket and fly, trimmed with red and gold, cap and red plumes, yellow Hcssiaa boots, sword and white gauntlets. VICKNTIO. — Wliite tight pantaloons, white jacket and fly, same as Ludovico, oJl handiom'^ly trimmed with red and gold, white hat and plumes, white gloves, hand ruulcs and sword. SPALATRO. — Scarlet shirt, trimmed round the bottom with gold, amber scarf, h^* and white phwne?, wliite tights, boots, sword and gauntlets. CO.XSPIIIATORS.— Ibid. GU.ARDS. — Armour, shirts, leggings, and helmets. EV.\DNE. — Pearl white satin boddice and train, all richly trimmed with j'old. OLIVIA.— Suroe as Evadne's, but of scarlet velvet. PAHES. — Buff tunics, trimmed with black and silver, white silk tights, ancle b? • and white scarfx. EXITS AND ENTRANCES. R. means Right; L. Left: R. D. Right Door L. D. Left Dot- 8. E. Second Entrance ; U. E. Upper Entrance; M. D. Middle Dof RELATIVE POSITIONS. R., meatis Right; L., Left; C, Centre: R. C. Right of Cent r L. C, Left of Centre. E V A D N E ; OR, THE STATUE. ACT I. Scene I. — The Palace of the Ki?ig of Naples. The King, Spai-atro, and Ttii Courtiers, Six Guards, and Two Banners, discovered. King. Didst say the Marquis of Colonna prays Admission to our presence 1 Spal. Ay, my liege ; He stands in the ante-cliamber, with a brow As stern as e'er was knitted in the folds Of rancorous discontent. King. I have noted oft His absence from the court, the which 1 deem His envy of our true Ludovico. Spal. Deem it no httlc benefit, my liege; His deep and murky smile, his gathered arms, In whose close pride he folds himself; his raw And pithy apothegms of scorn, have made him Our laughter and our hatred ; we are all Grown weary of this new Diogenes, Who rolls his hard and new"' philosophy Against all innocent usage of the court. King. We must not bid him hence : he has a sister-^ Spal. The fair Evadne ! King. Fairer than the morn ! Who has not seen her, knows of beauty less Than blind men of Aurora. For her sake We give Hm ample scope, and w^ are glad Ho cornea to visit us. b KVAD.Xi;. r./^Ct I Cohnfi'f. [ U'il/touf.] I'll he;ir no more. Colonna does not often impiatune ^ With his unwelcome presence. Let me j ass : For once, I must be heard." ^ Enter Coi.o.WA, \.., followed by two Courtiers, My liege ! Ist Cour. Hold back! 2(1 Cour. What light hast thou to rush before the sight Of sacred royalty 1 Col The right that all Good subjects ought to have : to do him service. My liege — [Courtiers retire i.., arid Spal. crof^ses to R. Kifig. You are welcome ; And would you had brought your lovely sister, too. Col. My sister, did you say i my sister, sire 1 She is not fit for courts ; " she would be called — • For she has something left of nature still, — *A simple creature here. She cannot cast * Unholy glances from a sidelong eye, ' Or give her untouched body to the wreath ' Of mazy dances, where all decency ' Is lost in pleasure's 'v/ildered labyrinth. ** She is not fit for courts," and I have hop.^ She never will. But, let it pass : — I come To implore a favour of you. King. Whatsoe'er Colonna prays, sure cannot be refused. Col. The favour that 1 ask is one, my liege, That princes often find it hard to grant. Tis simply this — that you v,-iil hear the truth. King. Proceed, and play the monitor, my lord. Col. I see your courtiers he<^ do stand amazed— Of them 1 first would speak, fa I'lere is not one Of this wide troop of glittering parasites, Th_at circle you, as priests surround their god, With sycophantic incense, but in soul Is your base foe ! These srailers here, ray liege. Whose dimples seem a sort of honeycomb Filled and o'erflowipg with suavity;. These soft melodious flatterers, " my liege, " That flourish ^n tlie flexibility Sr.r/HK I.I ETAnNF. S " Of their sofl countenances, are the vermin " That haunt a prince's ear with the false buzz " Of villanous assenta|.ion.'"' These are they Who from your mindihave flouted every thought Of the great weal of the people. These are they Who fjom your ears have shut the public cry, And with the poisoned gales of flattery Create around you a foul atmospheie Of unresounding denseness, through the which Their loud complaints cannot reverberate, And perish ere they reach you. King. Who complains? Who dares complain of us ? Col. All dare complain Behind you — [, before you ! Do not think, J3ecause you load your people with the weight Of camels, they possess the camel's patience. A deep groan labours in the nation's heart; The very calm and stillness of the day Gives augury of the earthquake. All without Is as the marble smooth, and all within Is rotten as the carcase it contains. Though ruin knock not at the palace gate. Yet will the palace gate unfold itself To ruin's felt-shod tread. King. \As)(]e?[ Insolent villain Col. ** Your gorgeous banquets, your high feasts of gold, * Which the four quarters of the rifled world " Heap with their ravished luxuries ; your pomps, *' Your palaces, and all the sumptuousness " Of painted royalty will melt away, *' As in a theatre the flittering scene " Doth vanish with the shifter's magic hand, " And the mock pageant perishes." My liege, A single virtuous action hath more worth Than all the pyramids ; and glory writes A more enduring epitaph upon One generous deed, than the sarcophagus In which Sesostris meant to sleep. Spaf. [Coming foricar J. \ Forbear! It is a subject's duty to arrest Thy ti^h and l}]3fpben']ortS ?peech. JO r- ^DNI . I" Act I. Kifis:. Let him speak on ! The monarch who can listen to Colonna, Is not the wortliless tyrant he would make me. Col. I deem you not that tyrant: if I did — No ! Nature, framing you, did kindly mean, And o'er your heart hath spiinkled many drops Of her best charities. But you are led From virtue and from wisdom far away, By men, whose every look's a lie ; whose hearts Are a large heap of cankers, and of whom The chief is a rank traitor ! King. Traitor! whom meanest thou 1 Col. Your favourite, your minister, my liege ; That smooth-faced hypocrite, that — King. Here he comes ! (hi. It is the traitor's self: I am glad of it, That to his face I may confront — Enter LuDOVico, R., and advances rapidly to the King, Lud. My liege, 1 hasten to your presence, to inform you — [Starting] Colonna here ! Oil. T])e same — Colonna's here! And if you wish to learn his theme of speech, Learn that ho spoke of treason and of you ! Lud. Did I not stand before the hallowed eye ^ Of majesty, I would teach thee with my sword How to reform thy phrase ; but I am now In my king's })resence, and, with awe-struck sou , As if within religion's peaceful shrine, Humbly I bend before him. — What, my liege. Hath this professor of austerity, And practiser of slander, vomited Against your servant's honour 1 King. He hath called you — Col. A traitor ! and I warn you to beware Of the false viper nurtuied in your heart. He has filled the city with a band of men, By fell allegiance sworn uTito himself, 'i'iiere are a thousand ruffians, at his word Prepared to cut our throats; the city swarms With murderers' faces; an.d thDugb trtjapou no^>' SCE5E L] h"^vsv.. 11 Swell to a blood-robed giant ! If, my liege, What 1 have said doth not unfilir? your eye, 'Twere vain to tell you more. " And 1 desire not " To hear a traitor doling out before you ** His fluent protestaticm, till at last, " With insolent mockery of attested Heaven, " From the believing ear of royalty " He sucks its brains out. I have said, my liege, " And tried to interrupt security *' Upon her purple cushion ; he, perhaps, " Will find some drowsy syrup to lay down " Her opening eyelids into sleep again, " And call back slumber v/ith a lullaby " Of sweetest adulation." Fare you well ! Lj/d. Hold back ! Col. Not at your summons, my good lord. The courtly air doth not agree with me, And I respire it painfully. — My liege. Hear my last words : Beware Ludovico ! Lfid. Villain, come back ! Col. I wear a sword, my lord. | Exit, L. Lud. He flies before me ; and the sight of him He dares accuse, came like the morning sun On the night-walking enemy of m.ankind, That shrinks before the day-ligr.t. Yes, he fled, And. I would straight pursue him, and send back, On my sword's point, his falsehoods to his heart ; But that I here, before the assembled court. Would vindicate myself A traitor! who, In any action of Ludovico, Finds echo to that word ] King. I cannot think Thou hast repaid me with ingratitude. L^id, I do not love to make a boisten^us boast Of my past services, and marshal fo Tn glittering array the benefit That 1 have done my sovereign. What I did, Was but my duty. Yet would I inquire, If he who has fought your battles, and hath made A very thraM of victory ; who oft fi^s back to Nanles froiu the field of fi^Jrlit V2 rv.ArM:. (Act I Led your iriumpliaiil armies, '• while the breeze " Spread out the royal banner, with its fold " Of floating glory, and yourself exclaimed, " 'Twas unprofaned by one small drop of blood ; •' If he, who from your shoulders has ta'en off " 'J'he heavy mass of empiio. to relieve " His sovereign from the ponderous load of rule, " And leave you but its pleasures" — he whose hand Hath lined the oppressive diadem with down. And ta'en its pressure from the golden round ; — If he, whose cheek hath at the midnight lamp (irown pale with study of his prince's weal, Is like to be a traitor] — who, my liege. Hath often, like the daylight's god, transpierced The hydra-headed monster of rebellion. And stretched it bleeding at your feet 1 v/ho oft Hath from the infuriate people exorcised The talking demon, Libert//, " and choked " The voice of clamorous demagogues" 1 — I dare To tell you, 'twas Ludovico ! Kini>;. It was. Lud. Who calls me traitor? He whose breath doth taint Whate'er it blows on — he — But ask yourself, my lord, if I be mad ? For were I that, tiiat he would make Ludovico, The cells of frenzy, not the scaffold's plank, Would best beseem my treason. " In your love ' My fortunes grow and flourish unto Heaven ; * And I should win by treason but the load * Of the world's execration, while the fierce * And ravenous vulture of remorse would tear * The vitals of my soul, and make my heart " Its black, immortal banquet ! — I a traitor ! " At first, I only meant to sconi ; but now, " The bursting passion hath o'ermastercd me, " And my voice chokes in anguish." Oh, my liege, Your giving audience to this rancorous man, AVlio envies me the greatness of your smile, Hath done nre wrong, and stabs me through and through A traitor ! — your Ludovico ! KiTi^^. My lord — LiuL \Kfic:}s.\ {^ere is my heart! it' you have any mercy, Strike through that heait, and as the blood flows forth, Drown your suspicious in the purple stream. King. Arise, Lutlovico, and do not think I have harboured in my breast a single thought That could dishonour thee. [Raises and embraces him L?.i(J. My royal master ! The power of gratitude mounts from my heart And rushes to mine eyes, that are too apt To play the woman with me. See, they are falling— Oh ! let them not profane your sacred cheek, But bathe my prince's feet. Kins:. Ludovico, We have wronged thee, not by doubt, But by our sufferance of Colonna's daring — Whom from my sight into the dungeon's depth 1 had flung, but that I hope — Let us apart — [Draws Ludovico aside in fronts L. But tjiat 1 hope, Ludovico, that yet I may possess me of his sister's charms. hnd. There you have struck upon the inmost spring Of all Colonna's hate ; for in obedience To your high will, 1 humbly made myself Your pleasure's minister, and to her ear I bore your proffered love, v.hich, he discovering. Hath tried to root me from my prince's heart — King. Where thou shalt evou- flourish ! But, Ludovico, But thou hast told her ! — is tliere hope, my friend % Lnd. She shall be youi's — na}', more — and well you know 'i'hat you may trust youi' servant — not alone Colonna's lovely sister shall be yours : But, mark my speech, Colonna's self shall draw The chaste white curtains from her virgin bed, And lead you t(j her arms ! King. What ! her fierce brother Yield his consent] Lud. Liquire not how, my liege, I would accomplish this — trust to my pledge — This very night. Kin'^. To-niirht ! Am I so ii:ar 14 • F.VADNE. rA.CTl To heaven, Ludovico 1 Lud. You arc, my liege. \Aside.\ Ti)-night upon ihe breast of paradise Vnu shall most soumlly sleep. Khiir. My laithful friend ! And dost thou say, Colonna will himself — ? Lf/d. Coloiina's self shall bear her to your arms, And bid her on to dalliance. King. Oh, my friend, Thou art the truest .servant tlmt e'er yet Tended his sovereign's wish : but dost not fear. Her purposed marriage with Vicentio INIay make some obstacle \ Lad. 1 have recalled him I^rom Florence, whither, as ambassador, In honourable exile he was sent. Kiiii;. Recalled him ! 'Twas to interrupt his love Tliat he was sent. Lud. My projects need his cetming. For I intend to make Vicentio An instrument to crown you with her charms! King. How shall I bless thee, my Ludovico? Dost thou think ^ 'Tis strange 1 pine for her — but why inquire Of thee, who once wert kindled by her charms ! Lud. My liege ! [.4 liitle diiturhed. King. She did prefer Vicentio. Lud. She shall prefer you to Vicentio. King. My dear Ludovico, within my soul More closely will I wear thee ! Tell her we'll shower all honour on her head. And here, Ludovico, to testify That we have given ourselves, bear to her heart This image of her king! Lud. 1 am in all your servant. King. My Ludovico, We never can reward thee ! Come, my friends, [Crosses, r, Let's to some fi'c^h imagined sport, and wile The languid hours in some device of joy, To liclp along the lazy flight of time, A.tjd c^uic];cn biiD wiijj pleasure. My Ludovjcfl j Snt^E I.] KVADNE4 lo Remember ! [ Flourish. — Excvnt King and ten of the Cuurticrs^ r. — Banners and Guord.s', r. u. e. — Sjuifa- iro and four other Conspirators remain behind, icith Ludovico. Liid. He is gone, And my unloosened spirit dares again To heave within my bosom ! — Oh, Colonna, With an usurious vengeance I'll repay thee, And cure the talking devil in thy tongue. \To Sj?al/trn.l^ — Give me thy hand, and let thy pulse again Beat with a temperate and healthful motion, (3f full security. We are safe, my friends. And in the genius of Ludovicf), An enterprise shall triumph. 8j)aJ. We began to tremble when you entered — but full soon With admiration we beheld you tread Secure the steeps of ruin, and preserve us. L//d. That damned Colonna ! — by the glorious star Of my nativity, I do not burn For empire with a move infuriate thirst. Than for revenge ! Spa'. My poniard's at your service. [First and >ccond Conspirators half draiv their da ggen, Lud. Not for the world, my friends ! i'U turn my vengeance to utility. And must economize my hate — Whom think you Have I marked out assassin of the King? Spal. Piero, perchance — he strikes the poniard deep. Lud. A better hand at it. Spal. Bartolo, then — He pushes the stiletto to the heart. ~ Lud. No! Spal. Then yourself will undertake the deed. Lud. That v/ere against all wisdom — No, my friends, Co? on n a — Spal. What, Colonna ? — he that now Accused you here 1 L?id. Colonna! — Spal. 'Tis impossible ! — From his great father he inherited A lort of p,a*ssiQn io hia loyalty : IG EVA ONE. [Act In him it niouiits to folly. Lud. Vet, Spalatro, I'll make a murderer of him. Your leave awhile, my friends. — [Exeunt Covsvirators.] Know you not, He has a sister ? S^mJ. Yt's, the fair Evadne, You once did love yourself Lud. There thou hast touched me. And I am weak enough to love her yet, If that indeed be love that doth consume me : It is a sort of monster in my heart. Made up of horiid contrarieties! She scorns me for that smooth Vicentio — Not only does he thwart me in my love. But, well I know his influence in the state Would, when the King is sent to paradise. Be cast between me and the throne — he dies !— Colonna too shall perish, and the crown Shall with Evadne's love be mine. Evtcr Page, l. How now 1 Paue. My lord, the Lady Olivia Waits on your highness. Lud. I desired her here, And straight I will attend her. [Exit Page^ t.. With a stTaw A town may be consumed, and I emplc This woman's passion for Vicentio, As I would use a poisoned pin, to kill. SpnJ. She long hath loved Vicentio. Li'd. He shall wed her — And from the hand of Hymen, death shall snatch The nuptial torch, and use it for his own ! 1 Imsfe me to her presence. [ Tf//it's out the King's picture.] Come, fair bauble, Thou now must be employed. — [ To SpuL] Dost thou not think. Even in this image, that he bears iho soft And wnrifon aspect with the wiiich he bid mc To calmer f';r \v% vi']--.inr>us nprciitc — Scene l.j EVADNE. 17 And with what luxury 1 — Evadne's charms! Evadne that I love ! Spal. But didst thou not Thyself evoke that passion in his breast 1 Lud. I did, 'tis time — but for mine own success, I hate him ! There is the very face with which he first Poured his unholy wishes in mine ear — Ha ! dost thou smile upon me 1 — I will turn Those glittering eyes, where love doth now inhabit, To two dark, hollow palaces, for death To keep his mouldeiing state in. He dares to hope that I will make myself The wretched officer of his desires, And smooth the bed for his lascivious pleasures — But I full soon will teach his royalty. The beds I make are lasting ones, and lie In the dark chambers of eternity ! [Exeunt^ l. END OF ACT I. ACT II. Scene I. — A Room in the Palace, Enter Olivia and Ludovico, r. hud. Dispose of it as I instructed you j \Gi7''mg her the King^s picture, You know that I have pledged myself to make Vicentio yours. To-day yourself have given The means to turn that promise into deed. Oliv. My own heart Tells me, 'tis a bad office I have ta'en ; But this unhappy passion drives me on, And makes my soul your thrall. — Thus I have crept, Obedient to your counsels, meanly crept Into Evadne's soft and trusting heart, And coiled myself around her— Thus, my lord, Have I obtained the page of amorous sighs That you enjoined me to secure — 1 own 18 • KVADNL-. (^ACT II 'Twas a false deed, but I am gone loo far To seek retreat, and will olay you still. Lud. And 1 will crown your passion with the flovverB Of Hymen's yellow garland — Trust me, Olivia, That once dissevered from lilvadne's love, He'll soon be taught to prize your nobler frame. And n>ore enkindled beauty — Well, 'tis known, Ere he beheld the sorceress, He deemed you fairest of created things, And would have proffered love, had not — Oliv. I pray you, With gems of flattery do not disturb The fount of bitterness w^ithin my soul ; For dropped though ne'er so lightly, they but stir The poisoned waters as they fall. — 1 have said I will obey you. Lud. Vv'ith this innocent page, Will I light up a fire within Vicentio, — But you must keep it flaming : — I have ta'en Apt means to drive him into jealousy, By scattering rumours (which have reached his ear) Before he comes to Naples, — e'en in Florence Have 1 prepared his soft and yielding mind To take the seal that I would fix upon it. I do expect him with the fleeting hour, — For to my presence he must come to bear His embassy's commission, and be sure He leaves me with a poison in his heart, Evadne's lips shall never suck away. OUr. Then will I hence, and, if 'tis possible. Your bidding shall be done. — Vicentio ! Enter Vicentio, r. Yic. Hail to my lord ! hud. Welcome, Vicentio ! I have not clasped your hand this many a day ! Welcome from Florence. In your absence, sir, Time seemed to have lost his feathers. '* Vir. It was kind To waete a thought upon me. — Fair Olivia, Florence hath dimmed mine eyes, or I must else Have seen a sunbeam sooner. — {Ciosscs. c;.) — Fair Olivia, SCEilE I.] E7ADNE. 19 How does your lovely friend ] Orn\ What friend, my lord ? Vic. I trust naught evil hath befallen Evadno, That you should feign to understand me not. How does my beautiful and plighted love ] OHv. How does she, sir ] I pray you, my good lord, To ask such tender question of the King. [Exit^ L. Vic. [Aside.] What meant she by the King ? L^id. You seem, V^icentio, O'ershadovved with reflection — should you Not have used some soft detaining phrase to one, Who should at least be pitied 1 Vic. I came here To re-deliver to your hands, my lord, The high commission of mine embassy, That long delayed my marriage. You, I deem My creditor, in having used your sway In my recall to Naples. Lud. In return for such small service, I hope That you will not forget Ludovico, When, in the troop of thronging worshippers, At distance you behold his stooping plume Uend in humility. Vic. What means my lord 1 L7ui. Act not this ignorance — your glorious fortune Hath filled the common mouth — Your image .stands already in the mart Of pictured ridicule.^— Come, do not wear The look of studied wonderment — you know Howe'er I stand upon the highest place In the King's favour, that you will full soon Supplant the poor Ludovico. Vic. I am no CEdipus. Lud. You would have me speak in simpler phrase ; Vicentio, You are to be the favourite of the king. Vic. The favourite of the king ! Lud. Certes, Vicentio. In our Italian courts, the generous husband Receives his monarch's recompensing smile, That with alchymic power can turn the mas3 20 tVADNE. i^AcTil Of dull, opin-obrious shame, to one bright heap Of honour and emolument. I bid you joy, my lord — why, how is this! Do you not yet conceive me ] Know you not. You are to wed the mistress of the King 1 Colonna's sister — ay, 1 have said it, sir, — Now do you understand me ? Vic. Villain, thou liest ! Lud. What 1 are you not to marry her 1 Vic. Thou liest! Though thou wert ten times wnat thou an already, Not all the laurels heaped upon thy head Should save thee from the lightnings of my wrath ! Lud. If it were my will. The movement of my hand should beckon death To thy presumption. But 1 have proved too oft I bore a fearless heart, to think you dare To call me coward — and I am too wise To think 1 can revenge an injury By giving you my life. But I compassionate, Nay, I have learned to esteem thee for a wrath, That speaks thy noble nature. Fare thee well ! [ Grosses, u Thy pulse is now too fevered for the cure 1 honestly intended — yet, before I part, here take this satisfying proof Of what a woman's made of. [Crives him a lettet Vic. It is her character ! Hast thou shed phosphor on the innocent page, That it has turned to fire 1 Lud. Thou hast thy fate. Vic. 'Tis signed, "Evadne!" Lud. Yes, it is — farewell ! Vic. For Heaven's sake, hear me, — Stay.«— Ob, pardoii me For the rash utterance of a frantic man- Speak ! in mercy speak ! Lud. I will In mercy speak, indeed. — In mercy to That fervid generosity of heart That 1 behold within thee. Vic, From whom is this ? S«:ehk I ] EVADNE. 21 Lucl. From whom / look there ! Vic. Evadne ! Lud. 'Tis written to the King and to my hand, For he is proud of it, as if it were A banner of high victory, he bore it, To evidence his valour. — It is grown His cup-theme now, and your Evadne's name Is lisped with all the insolence on his tongue Of satiated triumph — he exclaims— The poor Vicentio ! Vic. The poor Vicentio ! Lied. [Aside.\ What ! shall he murder him ? — no, no — Colonna ! The poor Vicentio ! — and he oftentimes Cries, that he pities you ! Vic. He pities me ! Lud. 1 own that sometime I was infidel To all the bombast vaunting of the King, But— Vic, 'Tis Evadne! — I have gazed upon it, In hope that with the glaring of mine eyes, 1 might burn out the false and treacherous word- But still 'lis there — no more — else will it turn My brain to a red furnace. — Look you, my lord- Thus as I rend the cursed evidence Of that vile woman's falsehood — thus I cast My love into the winds, and as I tread Upon the poisoned fragments of the snake That stings me into madness, thus, Ludovico, Thus do 1 trample on her ! [Crostes L. Lud. Have you ne'er heard, — For *twas so widely scattered in the voice Of common rumour, that the very wind, If it blew fair for Florence — Vic. I have heard Some whispers, which I long had flung away With an incredulous hatred from my heart — But now, this testimony has conjured All other circumstances in one vast heap Of damned certainty ! — Farew^ell, my lord — [^Ci'osses 8., Lud. Hear me, Vicentio. Vengeance is left you still — the deadliest, too, 23 EVADNE. ^Aet II That a false woman can be made to feel : Take her example — be not satisfied With casting her for ever from your heart. But to the place that she has forfeited, Exalt a lovelier than — but I perceive You are not in a mood to hear me now — Some other time, Vicentio — and, meanwhile, Despite your first tempestous suddenness. You will think that 1 but meant your honour well In this proceeding. Vic. I believe I owe you That sort of desperate gratitude, my lord, The dying patient owes the barbarous knife, That delves in throes of mortal agony, And tears the rooted cancer from his heart ! [Exeuntf l. Scene II. — A Boom in Colo?ina*s Palace. Enter Evadxe, u. d., loohiyig at a picture, Eva. 'Tis strange he comes not! through the city's gatM Kis panting courser passed before the sun Had climbed to his meridian, yet he comes not ! — Ah ! Vicentio, To know thee near me, yet behold thee not, Is sadder than to think thee far away; For I had rather that a thousand leagues Of mountain ocean should dissever us, Than thine own heart, Vicentio. — Sure, Vicentio, If thou didst know with what a pining gaze I feed mine eyes upon thine image here. Thou wouldst not now leave thine Evadne's love To this same cold idolatry. Enter Olivia, nnperceiced^ l. u. e., down on r., and touches Evadne on the shoulder. [ will swear That smile's a false one, for it sweetly tells No tarrying indifference. — Olivia! Ol.iv. I have stolen unperceived upon your hours Of lonely meditation, and surprised Vour soft soliloquies to that fair face. — Nay, do not blush — reserve that rosy dawn Spese II.] EVADNE. 23 For the soft pressure of Vicentio's lips. Eva. You mock me, fair Olivia, — f confess, That musing on my cold Viceiitio's absence, I quarrelled with the blameless ivory. Oliv. He was compelled, as soon as he arrived. To wait upon the great Ludovico ; Meanwhile, your soft, expecting moments, flow In tender meditation on the face. You dare to gaze upon in ivory With fonder aspect, than when you behold Its bright original ; for then 'tis meet Your pensive brows be bent upon the ground, And sighs as soft as zephyrs on the wave, Should gently heave your heart. — Is it not so] Nay, do not now rehearse your heart, I pray; — Reserve those downcast lockincrs for Vicentio; That's a fair picture — let me, if you dare Entrust the treasure to another's hand, Let me look on it. [Takes Vicentio's 'picture. What a sweetness plays On those half-opened lips !— He gazed on you, When those bright eyes were painted. Eva. You have got A heart so free of care, than you can mock Your pensive friend with such light merriment. But hark ! I hear a step. Olir. Now fortune aid me In lier precipitation. Eva. It is himself! — Olivia, he is coming. — Well I know My Lord Vicentio hastens to mine eyes ! The picture — pr'ythee, give it back to me — 1 must constrain you to it. Oliv. \ Who has siihstitutcd the picture of the King.] It is in vain To stl'uggle with you, then — with what a grasp You rend it from my hand, as if it were Vicentio that I had stolen away. [Gives her the King s picture, which Eva cine pilci'^-^s i^ her hosom. [Aside.] I triumph ! — He is coming — I must leave you, Nor interrupt the meeting of your hearts 24 EVADNE, [Act II By ray officious presence ! [Exit, L. Eva. It is himself! Swiftly he passes through the colonnade ! Oh.! Vicentio, Thy coming bears me joy as bright as e'er Beat through the heart of woman, that was made For suffering, and for transport ! — Oh, Vicentio ! E/iter ViccvTio, l. Are you, then, come at last? — do I once more Behold my bosom's lord, whose tender sight Is necessary for my happiness As light for heaven ! — My lord ! — Vicentio ! — I blush to speak the transport in ray heart, But I am rapt to see you. Vic. [Aside.] Dissembling woman ! Eva. How is this, my lord 1 You look altered. Vic. But you do not look altered — would you did ! Let me peruse the face where loveliness Stays, like the light, after the sun is set. Sphered in the stillness of those heaven-blue eyes, The soul sits beautiful; "ihe high white front, " Smooth as the brow of Pallas, seems a temple "Sacred to holy thinking!" and those lips Wear the sweet smile of sleeping infmcy They are so innocent. — Oh 1 Evadne, Thou art not altered — would thou wert ! Eva. Vicentio, This strangeness I scarce hoped for. — Say, Vicentio, Has any ill befallen you ? — L perceive That it's warm blood hath parted from your cheek :— Ah me ! you are not well, Vicentio. Vic. In sooth, I am not. — There is in my breast A wound that mocks all cure — no salve, nor anodynei Nor medicinal herb, can e'er allay The festering of that agonizing wound You have driven into my heart ! Eva. I ? Vic. Why, Evadne, Why did you ever tell me that you loved me ? Why was not 1 in mercy spurned away, Scorned, like Ludovico ? for unto him You dealt in honour, and despised his love : But nie you soothed and flattered — sighed ani blushed — And smiled and v/ept, for you can weep ; (even now Your tears flow by volition, and your eyes, Convenient fountains, have begun to gu.sh,) To stab me with a falsehood yet unknown In falsest woman's perfidy ! [ Turns from her. Er'a. Vicentio, Why am I thus accused ? What have 1 done 1 Vic. What ! — are you grown already an adept In cold dissimulation ] Have you stopped All access from your henrt into your face ? Do you not blush 1 Eva. I do, indeeed, for you ! Vic. The King ! Eva. The King ? \ l'^/V;> Come, come, confess at once, aud wear it high Upon your towering forehead — swell your port — Away with this unseemly bashfulness, That will be deemed a savageness at court — - Confront the talking of the busy world — Tell them you are the.mistress of the King, Tell them you are Colonna's sister, too ; 3^ut hark you, madam, — prithee, do not say You are Vicentio's wife ! [ Taking St^ge, L« Era. Injurious man I Vir. The very winds from the four parts of heaven Blew it throughout the city — Eva. And if angels Cried, trumpet-tongued, that I was false to you, You should not have believed it. — You forget, Who dares to stain a woman's honesty. Does her a wrong, as deadly as the brand He fears upon himself. — Go, go, Vicentio — You are not what I deemed you! — Mistress 1 — fie! Let me not behold The man who has reviled me with a thought Dishonouring as that one ! — for shame ! for shame ! Oh ! Vicentio, Do I deserve this of you 1 Vic, If I had wroneed lier !— 26 EVADNE. Act n Eva. I will njt d^scond To vindicate myself— dnie to suspect me ! — My lord, 1 am to guess that you came here, To speak your soul's revolt, and to demand Your pliglited vows again, — If for this You tarry here, I freely give you back Your late repented faith — Farewell forever ! [As she is goings r. Vic. Evadne! Eva. Well, my lord 1— Vic. Evadne, stay ! — Eva. Vicentio ! [ With a look of reproaching remonstrance. Vic. Let me look in thy face — Oh, 'tis impossible! — I was bemocked, And cheated by that villain ! — nothing false Sure ever looked like thee ; and yet wilt thou But swear — Eva. What should I swear ? — Vic. That you did not Betray me to the King. Eva. Never ! — Vic. Nor e'er Didst write in love to him ? Eva. Oh, never, never! — I perceive, Vicentio, Some villain hath abused thy credulous ear — But no 1 — I will not now enquire it of thee — When I am calmer — I must hence betimes, To chase these blots of sorrow from my face, — For if Colonna should behold me weep. So tenderly he loves me, that I fear His hot, tempestuous nature— Why, Vicentio, Do you still wrong me with a wildered eye, That sheds suspicion ] Vic. [Asidc.^ 1 now remember Another circumstance, Ludovico Did tell me as I came — I do not see My picture on her bosom. 'Eva. Well, Vicentio? Vic. When I departed hence, about your neck I hung my pictured likeness, which mine eyes. Made keen by jealous vigilance, perchance Scene 11. ] EVADiLE. 27 Desire upon your breast. Era. And is tliat all 1 And in sucli fond and petty circumstance, Seek you suspicion's nuurisbnicnt 1 — A'icentio, 1 must disclose my weakness — here, Vicentio, 1 have pillowed your dear image on a heart You should not have distrusted. yD rates the King^s T let ure from her hosom. Here it is — And now, my lord, suspect me if you can. Vk. \Starting?\ A horrid phantom, more accursed than e'er Yet cros-sed the sleep of frenzy, stares upon me — Speak — speak at once — Or — let it blast thee too. Era. Sure some dark spell, Some featful witchery — I am struck to ashes, — Amazement, like the lightning — give it me, And 1 will fix it in my very eyes, Clasp it against my sight — 'Tis not Vicentio ! — Vic. It is the King ! Eva. Oh ! do not yield it faith, — Give not thy senses credence % Oh, Vicentio, I am confounded, maddened, lost, Vicentio ! Some demon paints it on the coloured air — 'Tis not reality \h^l stares upon me ! — Oh ! hide it from my sight ! — Yic. Chance has betrayed thee, And saves my periled honour — Here, thou all fraud, Thou mass of painted perjury, — thou woman ! — And now I have done with thee, and pray to heaven I ne'er may see thee more. [Going, l.] But, hold! — I must Recall that wish again — The time will come When I would look on thee — then, Evadne, then. When the world's scorn is on thee, let me see Thee, old in ycmth, and bending 'neath the load Of sorrow, not of time — then let me see thee, And may est thou, as I pass, lift up thy head But once from the sad earth, and then, Evadne, Look down again forever ! \Exiti E. Enter Colonna, m. d., in time to see Vicentio go off.—Evad' 28 EVADNF.. [Act il 7jf, at first not 'perceiving that he is gone, and recovering from her stupefaction. Era. I will swear — Give it back to me — Oh ! I am innocent ! \ Rushes vp to Cohnna, icho advances, r., ?nisfaking /fi^n for a moment for Vicentio. By heaven, I am innf)cent ! Col. Who dares to doubt it, — Who knows thee of that noble family, That cowardice in man, or wantonness In woman, ever tarnished % Era. [Aside.] He is gone ! — Col. But how is this,*Evadne 1 In your face I read a wildered air has ta'en the place Of that placidity, that used to shine Forever on thy holy countenance. Eva. Now, as'I value my Vicentio's life — Col. One of love's summer clouds, I doubt me, sister, Hath floated o'er you, though 'twere better far That it had left no rain drops. — W^hat has happened ? Eva. There's nothing has befallen, only — Col. What, only] Eva. I pray you, pardon me — I must begone ! Col. Evadne, stay! let me behold you well — - Why do you stand at distance 1 nearer still, — Evadne ! — Eva. Weill Col. Vicentio — Eva. [Assuming an affected lightness of manner.^ Why, Colonna — Think you that I'm without my sex's arts, And did not practise all the toiturings That make a woman's triumph 1 Col. 'Twas not well. 1 hoped thee raised above all artifice That makes thy sex but infancy matured. I was at first inclined to f(>llow him, And ask what this might mean ? Eva. Then h(? had told That I had played the tyrant. — Had you seen How like my peevish lap-dog he appeared, SnENE I.] EVADNE. 29 Just beaten with a fan. — Ha ! ha ! Colunna, You will find us all alike. — Ha ! ha! my heart Will break. [^Bursts into ^cars. Col. Farewell ! Erus instrument, Whom now I scorn so much, I scarcely let thee Reach to the dignity of being hated. Enter fJie King, l., disguised. King. My faithful servant, my Ludovico ! Lud. My prince ! I did not hope to meet you here! What, in this masqued attire, has made you veil The dazzling brightness of your royalty, And led you from your palace ] King. I have ta'en Concealment's wonted habit, to escape The hundred eyes of curiosity, And, weaned with the rotatory course Of diill unchanging pleasure, sought for thee. Shall she be mine, Ludovico ] Lud. My liege, I marvel not at the impatient throb Of restless expectation in your heart. And know, my liege, that not in vain I toil. To waft you to her bosom-, for Vicentio Renounces her forever ! and but movsd Ry my wise counsels, hath already piayed The fair Olivia's hand. Kinw. ^fow, my Ludovico, Didst thou accom])lish it 1 Lud. T turned to use The passion of Olivia ; while Evodne traced A letter to Vicenti(\ suddeiilv Scent: I.] EVACNE. 31 The news of his expected coming reached Her panting breast, and in the rush of joy, Unfinished on her table did she leave The page of amorons wishes, which the care Of unpei'ceived Olivia ha])ly seized, And bore unto my hand. — Vicentio's name Was drowned in hurried vocatives of love, As thus — " My lord — my life — my soul," — the which I made advantage of, and did persuade him 'Twas written to your highness, — and with lights . Caught fi-om the very torch of truest love^ I fired rlije furies' brands — K''nL(. My faithful friend 1 Lu'L Then with your picture did Olivia work Suspici(*n into frenzy — when he came From your Evadne's house, I threw myself, As if by fortune, in his path : — I ui-ged His heated passions to ray j)urpo3es. And bade liim ask Olivia's haiid, to piove Hew much he scorned her falsehood. — Rven now He makes his suit, for there Olivia dwells. And as you came, he entei-od. K'nin:. I>ut wherein Will this promote the crowning of my \o\e ? Lud. I said Colonna's self should be the first To lead you to her arms — King. Thou didst, Ludovico, The which perform.ed, I'll give thee half ray r«alm. [Crosses^ r. Lud. [Aside] You shall give all! King. Accomplish tliis, ray friend. Thou art my great Apollo ! Lad. No, my Hege, You shall be Jove, And taste more joys than the Olympian did, In gr»lden showers in Danae's yielding heart. King. Ludovico, thou art as dear to me As the rich circle of my royalty. Farewell, Ludovico ; 1 shall expect Some speedy tidings from thee — fare thee well! To-night, Ludovico. [Exit, r. Lud. To night, you perish ! 32 EVADNK [A-ZT 111 Colonna's dagger shall let out your r>lood, And lance your wanton and high-swelling veins. — That i should stoop to such an infamy ! Evadne here ! Enter EvADXE, l. Not for tiie King, but for myself I mean, A feast fit for the gods ! Eca. [ With some agitation.] My Lord Ludovico — Lud. The beautiful Evadne ! What would the brightest maid of Italy Of her poor servant l Eva. Sir, may I entreat Your knowledge where the Count Vicentio 'Bides at this present instant 1 I have been informed He 'companied you here. Lud. It grieves me sore He hath dorm you so much wrong. !-lva. What may you mean 1 Lud. 'Tis talked of in the whispering gallery, Wliere envy holds her court : Who would have thought Vicentio's heart was like A plaything stuck with Cupid's lightest plumes, Thus to be tossed from one heart lo another'? Ov rather, who had thought that you were made For such abandonment ? Era. I scarce can guess — Lud. I did not mean to touch so nice a wound. If you desire to learn where now he bides, 1 can inf^:)rm you. Era. Where, Ludovico 1 Lud. Yonder, Evadne, in Olivia's house. I'lrn. Olivia's house] what woujd he there t Lud . You know Vicentio and Olivia are to-day — Eva. My lord 1 * Lud. Are to be married — Era. Married, my lord ] Vicentio and Olivia to be married ! Lud. I am sorry that it moves you thus — Evadne j " Mad I been used as that inirrate, be sure *" I ne'er had proved like him"'— I uould not thus Scene l.J EVADNt. 33 Have flung thee like a pt^ppy from my iieait. A drowsy, sleep-provoking flower : — Cvadne, 1 had not thus deserted you ! | ^lit^ r. Eva. Vicentio, Olivia and Vicentio to be married 1 I heard it — yes — I am sure 1 did — Vicentio ! Olivia to be married ! — and Evadne, Whose heart was made of adoration — Vicentio in her house 1 there — underneath That woman's roof — behind the door that looks To shut me out from hope. — I will myself — [Advancing, then checking herself. I do not dare to do it — but he could not. — He could not use me thus — he could not — Ha ! Ejiter Vicentio, from Olivia's House, r, d. p. Vic. Evadne here 1 Eva. Would 1 had been born blind, Not to behold the fatal evidence Of my abandonment ! — Am I condemned Even by the ocular proof, to be made sure That I'm a wretch forever! Vic. [Adva??.ces, r.] Does she come To bate me with reproaches 1 or does she dare To think that she can angle me again To the vile pool wherein she meant to catch me 1 I'll pass her with the bitterness of scorn. Nor seem to know her present to my sight, [Crosses, l., and parses her. Now I'm at least revenged. [G^ing^ l. Eva. My lord, I pray you — My lord, I dare entreat — Vicentio — Vie. Who calls upon Vicentio ] Was it you ? What would you with him, for 1 bear the name. Eva. Sir, I— V/'c. Go on. — [Aside.] I'll taunt her to the quick Eva. My lord, 1— Vic. I pray you, speak — 1 cannot guess. By such wild broken phrase, what you would have Of one who knows you not. Eva. Not know me ? Vic. No— 34 EVADNE [Act I^I Let me look in your face — there is indeed Some faint resemblance to a countenance Once much familiar to Vicentio's eyes, But 'tis a shadowy one ; — she that I speak of Was full of virtues, as the milky way Upon a frozen night is thick with stars. She was as pure as an untasted fountain, Fresh as an April blossom, kind as love, And good as infants giving chanty ! — Such was Evadne : — fare you well 1 Eva. My lord, Is't true what 1 have heard 1 — Vic. What have you heard 1 Era. Speak — are you to be married — let me hear it — > Thank heavu, I've strength to hear it. Vic. I scarce guess What interest you find in one that deems Himself a stranger to you. Eva. Sir— Vic. But if You are indeed solicitous to learn Auglit that imports me, learn that I to-day Have asked the fair Olivia's hand, in place of one — Era. You have bedewed with tears, and that henceforth Will fear no lack of tears, thoug^h they may fall From other eyes than yours. — So, then, Vicentio, Fame did not wrong you, — You are to be married 1 Vic. To one within whose heart as pure a fire As ill the shrine of A^'esta, long has burned. Not the coarse flame of a corrupted heart, To every worship dedicate alike, A false perfidious seeming. — Era. I implore you To spare your accusations. — 1 am come — Vic. Doubtless to vindicate yourself Eva. Oh, no ! — An angel now would vainly plead my cause Within Vicentio's heart — therefore, my lord, 1 have no intent to interrupt the rite 'J'hat makes that lady yours ; but I am come Thus breathless as you see me — would to heav'n I could be tearless, too ! — *' you will think, perhaps, HCESE l.;i EVADNE. 35 *• That 'gainst the trembling Tearfulness I sin, ** That best becomes a woman, and that most *" Becomes a sad abandoned one." Vic. Evadne — Evadne, you deceive yourself. Eva. " I knew " I should encounter this — " But I will endure it" — nay, more, my lord, Hear all the vengeance I intend. — Vic. Go on. — Eva. May you be happy with that happier maid. That never could have loved you more than I do, But may deserve you better ! — May your days, Like a long stormless summer, glide away, And peace and trust be with you ! — " May you be '* The after-patterns of felicity, " That lovers, when they wed, may only wish " To be as blest as you were ; loveliness " Dwell round about you, like an atmosphere. " Of our soft southern air, where every flower " In Hymen's yellow wreath may bloom and blow ! •* Let nature, with the strong domestic bond •* Of parent tenderness, unite your hearts *' In holier harmony ; and when you see •* What you both love, more ardently adore !" And when at last you close your gentle lives. Blameless as they were blessed, may you fall Into the grave as softly as the leaves Of two sweet roses on an autumn eve. Beneath the soft sighs of the western wind, Drop to the earth together !— for myself — I will but pray — [Sohhing.] — I will but pray, my lord V/'c. [Aside.] I must begone, else she may soon regain A mastery o'er my nature. Era. dh, Vicentio, I see that I am doomed a trouble to you. I shall not* long be so. There's but one trouble I shall ever give To any one again. I will but pray The maker of the lonely beds of peace To open one of his deep, hollow ones, Where misery goes to sleep, and let me in ;— .•^6 hVAD^i:. [ACT ill If ever you chance To pass beside my grave, I am sure you'll not refuse a little sigh. And if my friend, (1 still will call her so,) My friend, Olivia, chide you, pr'ythee tell her Not to be jealous of me in ray grave. Vic. The picture ! In your bosom — near your heart- There, on the very swellings of your breast, The very shrine of chastity, you raised A f >ul and cursed idol \ Era. You did not give me time — no— not a moment. To think what villainy was wrought to make mo So hateful to your eyes. — It is too late ; You are Olivia's, I have no claim to you — You have renounced me — Vie. Come, confess — confess — Eva. What, then, should 1 confess ? — that you, thai heaven, ■ That all the world seems to conspire against me, And that I am accursed 1 — But let me bold — 1 waste me in the selfishness of woe, While life, perchance, is periled, — Oh, Yicentio. Prithee, avoid Colonna's sight I Vic. Evadne '? — You do not think to fright me with his name ? Eva. Vicentio, do not take away from me All that I've left to love in all the world ! Avoid Colonna's sight to-day. — Yicentio, Only to-day avoid him, — I will find Some way to reconcile him to my fate — I'll lay the blame upon my hapless head ! — Only to-day, Yicentio. Enter Colonn.\, r. s, e. Col. (r.) Ha! my sister! Where is thy dignity 1 Where is the pride Meet for Colonna's sister ? — hence ! — My lord— Vic. (l.) What would you, sir'? Cul. Your life : — you are briefly answered. Look here, sir. — To this lady you preferred Your despicable love I Long did you woo. And when at last, by constant adoration, Her sigh levealed that you were heard, you gained SCi-NE I.] hVADiS-E. 37 Her brother's cold assent, — Well, then — no moie — For I've no patience to repeat by cause The wrong that thou hast cl(»ne her. It has reached Colonna's ear, that you have abandoned her — It rings through Naples, my good lord — now, mark me — I am her brother — V?c. Well— Eva. (c.) Forbear! forbear! I have no injury you should resent In such a fearful fashion. — I — my brother — I am sure I never uttered a complaint Heaved with one sigh, nor shed a single tear. Look at me, ofood Colonna ! — now, Coloima, Can you discern a sorrow in my face £ I do not weep — I do not — look upon me — Why, I can smile, Colonna. \ Bvrsis into tears. Oh I my brother ! — CoL You weep, Evadne I but I'll mix your tears With a false villain's blood. — If you have left A sense of anght that's noble in you still — Vic. My lord, you do mistake, if you have hope Vicentio's name was e'er designed to be The cloak of such vile purpose — Col. How ] explain — I understand you not. Eva. Forbear, Colonna ; Before your face, and in the face of heaven, 1 freely do resign him ; 1 forgive him, And may heaven follow my example, too! Col. But I will not, Evadne. — 1 shall deal In briefest phrase with you. — Is't true, my lord, You have abandoned her ] Vic. Is't true, my lora, That to the king — Col. The king'? Vic. And could you think That I am to be made, an instrument For such a foul advancement 1 do you think That I would turn my name into a cloak ? — ■ Eia. Colonna, my dear brother ! Oh, Alcentio ! My love, my life, my — pardon me, my lord, 1 had forgot — i have no right to i'.i;e [) 3S EVADNE. [Act III. Words that were once familiar to my lips : But, for Heaven's sake, I do implore you here — • Col. Sir, you said something, if I heard aright, Touching the king ; — explain yourself Vic. 1 will ! I will not wed his mistress ! Eca. [ With reproach.] Oh, Vicentio ! Whom mean you, sir ? , Vic. Look there ! Col Evadne ! ha 1 Vic. Evadne ! Col. [Crosses, c, and strikes him with his glove i\ Heie's my answer ! follow me ! Beyond the city's gates, I shall expect you. [Exit, l. Eva. [Clinging to Vicentio, iv ho has his sword draiim^ and hnecling to him.\ You shall not stir ! Vic. If from his heart I poured A sea of blood, it would not now content me. Indolent villain ! dost thou stay me back] Away ! unloose me ! Eva. Olivia, hear me — listen to my cry — It is thy husband's life that now I plead for; Save, oh, save him ! Vic. Then must I fiing thee from me. That swift as lightning on the whirlwind's wings, I rush to my revenge ! Eva, Oh ! my poor heart ! Choak not, thou struggling spirit, in my breast ! Hear me, Olivia ! — Olivia, hear me ! " Vicentio drags Evadne off, r., she clinging round hit neck END OF ACT III. ScEifE I.] EVADNE. ' 39 ACT IV. Scene I. — The Bay, and Vieio of Naples. Entej- CoLONNA and Vicentio, l., witJi their swords drawKy passing across to R. Col. Yonder, my lord, beside the cypress grove, Fast by the churchyard — there's a place, niethinks, Where we may 'scape the eye of observation. Vic. I follow, sir — the neighbourhood of the grave Will suit our purpose well, for you or I Must take its measure ere the sun be set. [Exeunt, r. Enter Ludovico, l. s. e., as they go off. Lnd. Ha ! there they go ! — the furies, with their whips Of hissing serpents, lash you to your fate ! My dull and passionate f )ols — you fall at last .Into the pit 1 have dug for you — the grave. You grasp the murdeiing hilt, while I, in thought, Already clench the glorious staff of empire. 1 hate you both ! — One of you has denounced me — Tlie other, robbed me of a woman's love. 'Jliey have already entered in the gTove Of funeral cypress. — Now they are lost Amid the crowded trunks — and yet a moment, And they will be about it ! — Now, Vicentio, 'i'hy fate is sealed. — Colonna's arm — Ha ! who comes here 1 Evadne ! — yes — my eyes deceive me not — 'Twas happiest chance that led me to the field — Slie must be interrupted — let me think — I have it. Enter Evadne, l. Eca. For heaven's sake, whoe'er you are, Tell me which way they passed — doth not this lead To the eastern gate of the city 1 — Ha ! Ludovico ! My loi'd, my lord — my brother, and Vicentio — Lud. I know it all — and I shall thank the fate That made Ludovico the messenger •iO l.VAtNE [Act IV. or sucli l)]esl il.iings to Evadne's 3ar — Vour brother and Vicentio. Eko. Speak, my lord — For heaven's sake, speak ! Lu(J. They are secure — thank heaven, Their purpose is prevented. — i??Y/. Secure! My brother and Vicentio are secure! Lud. By providential circumstance, before Their purpose was accomplished, both were seized, And all their furious passions are as hushed As the still waters of yon peaceful bay. Ef-a. Ludovico, I cannot speak how much Thou hast bound me to thee, by the holy sounds Thou hast breathed upon mine ear! — But, tell me, sir, Where, how, and when was this 1 — What blessed hand— " Speak, my lord !" Ijifd. 'Twas r ! Ecd. 'Twas you, Ludovico 1 Lud. The snme ! Hearing Olivia's marriage with Vicentio, I saw the dreadful issue, and I flew AV^ith the strong arm of power to intercept them. Ilea. 'Twas you, Ludovico — what shall I say? I I; now n(,t what to tell you. — But, heav'n bless you ! A thousand times, heaven bless you ! — On my knees, Ajh] at your feet, I thai]k you. [Kncch, Lud. Beautiful Evadne ! Loveliest beneath the skies, where everything Grows lovely as themselves ! Nay, do not bend -^I'our eyes, and hide beneath these fleecy clouds, Stais beaming as the evening one, nor turn That cheek away, that, like a cold rose, seems ])esprankt with snow ! — nor strive to win from me 'i'liose hands, which he who formed the lily, formed With imitative whiteness — I will presume, — For your dear sight hath made a r,iadman of me, To press my rapture here — \Ahout to take her hand, uhdch she rarclcssl// iviihdravs^ Eva. My lord, I own Tliat you surprise me, and were I not bound My strenuous olilic-gtion, I should say^ SCERJC I.] EVADNE 41 Percbance you did offend me — But I will not ! Accept my gradtiude, and be you sure These thanks are from a warm and honest iieait. Farewell ! [ Crosses, ii, Lud. You fly me, then ! Eva. I do not fly your presence, but I go To seek my brother's bosom— Lud. And Vicentio's ! Eva. You would be merry, sir. Lud. 1 have not cause — Nor shall you, madam. You would fly me thus, To rush at once into my rival's arms — Nay, do not start — he well deserve.^ the name — 1 know him by no other. Eva. Sir, I hope You will not revive a subject that has long Between us been forgotten. Lud. What ! forgotten 1 I did not think to hear it — said you forj^otten 1 Nay, do not think you leave me — in return For such small service as I have done to-day, I beg your audience — tell me what's forgotten ] 1 would hear it from your lips. Eva. I did not mean — Forgive, and let me go. [Crosses, n. Lrid. What 1 what forgotten 1 Your heartlessness to all the maddening power Of the tumultuous passions in my heait ! — What ! what forgotten 1 all the injuries You have cast upon my head — the stings of fire You have driven into my soul — my agonies, My tears, my supplications, and the groans Of my indignant spirit ! 1 can hold My curbed soul no more — it rushes out ! What 1 what forgotten 1 — me — Ludovico ] Eva. I pray you, my good Ici'd, for heaven's sake, near me. Lud. What ! to behold him, like a pilferer, With his smcoth face of meanless infancy, And his soft moulded body, steal away That feathered thing, thy heart. Era. Ludovico, 42 EVADNE. fAJT IV What may this sudden fury mean ? — you do But act these horrid passions to affright me ! For you to-day preserved him, did you not 1 Did you not say you saved Vicentio 1 Li/(i. I will permit you shortly to embrace him — I will not long detain you from his arms — Eut you will find him grown as cold a lover As moonlight statues — his fond arms will hang in loosened idleness about your form, — And from those lips, where you were wont to t'imbibe The fiery respiration of the heart. You will touch the coldness of the unsunned snow, Without it's purity. Eva. I now perceive What you would hint, my lord : — doubtless you deem Vicentio hath preferred Olivia's love ? Lud. If you can wake his heart to love again, I'll hold you for a sorceress — no, Evadne, You. ne'er shall be Vicentio's — but mine! Eva. Thine! Lud. Mine I — I have said it, and before to-night I'll verify the prophecy. Eva. I know not What lies within the dark and horrid cave .Of your imagination ; but be sure I had rather clasp Vicentio dead — I see That you recoil with passion. Lud. By the fires — Down, down, my burning heart ! — So you would rather Within Vicentio's cold and mouldering shroud, Warm into love, than on this beating heart ? But be it so — you will have occasim soon To try the experiment — and then, Evadne, You will more aptly judge. Eva. Ha ! a strong glare, Like the last flash from sinking ships, has poured A horrid radiance on me — Ha! Ludovico — Let it be frenzy that before ray face Spreads out that sheet of blood — Lud. Well, my Evadne 1 Eva. Demon, hast thou mocked me 1 Lud. Didst thou not scorn — didst thou not madden me ? Scene I.] EVADNE. 43 Dulst thou not — Ha ! [Seeing Colonna, crosses^ R. By heavens, it is himself! — All is accomplished — and upon m5 rront Methinks I clasp the round of royaic^ . Ah-eady do I clasp thee in mine arms ! Kvadne! — There — look there — Colonna comes, [Crosses, l. And on that weapon, flaming from afar, He bears the vengeance of Ludovico. [Exit, l. Ente?' Colonna, r., vnth his sword bloody. Col. Evadne here ! Eva. My brother ! Col. Call me so — For I have proved myself to be thy brother. Look here ! Eva. There's blood upon it ! Col. And there should be. Eva. Thou hast — Col. I have revenged thee ! Eva. Thou hast slain — Villain, thou hast slain Vicentio 1 Col. I have revenged thee — For any wrong done to my single self, I should, perhaps, repent me of the deed ; But, for a wrong to thee — Why dost thou look Up to the heavens with such a 'vvildered gaze 1 Eva. To curse thee, and myself, and all the world ! Villain, thou hast slain Vicentio ! — thou hast slain him Who was as dear unto my frantic heart, As thou art horrible ! — and 'tis to me Thou comest to tell me, too — thou comest to bear That weapon weltering with my lover's blood, And stab these blasted eye-balls — Hide thee, villain ! Hide thee within the centre of the earth ! Thou art all made of blood — and to the sun Art grown detestable — [Crosses, r.] Vicentio ! My lord ! my bosom's throb ! my pulse of life ! My soul ! my joy — my love ! — my all the world ! Vicentio! Vicentio! [Crosses,!. Col. Thy passionate grief Doth touch me more tl an it beseems mine honour. 44 EVADiNK. [AcTiV Eva. Strike that infernal weapon through my heart \ Colonna, kill me ! Kill me, my brother ! Co/. Prithee, my Evadne, Let me conduct thy grief to secresy — I must from l>ence prepare my speedy flight, For now my head is forfeit to the law ! Enter Spalatro, with Officer and eight Guards, b SpaK Behold him here. Sir, I am sorry for The duty which mine office hath prescribed ! You are my prisoner. Col. Sir, there is need Of little words to excuse you — I was talking Of speeding me from Naples, as you came, But I scarce grieve you interrupt my flight, — Here is my sword. Spal. Vou are doomed to death ! Era. To death ! Spal. The king himself, Hearing your combat wiih Vicentio, Hath sworn, that who survived, shall by the axe — CoJ. You speak before a woman — I was well iVcquainted with my fate before you spoke it. Eva. Death ! must you die, Colonna 1 must you die ] Oh ! no — no — no ! not die, sir, — say not die — [ Crosses, c. Co/. Retire, my sister — sir, I follow you — Eva. Oh, not die, Colonna ! no, Colonna. Th«y shall not take thee from me ! Co/. My sweet sister ! 1 pray you, gentlemen, one moment more — This lady is my sister, and indeed Is now my only kin in all the ^vorld, And I must die for her sake — my sweet sister ! Eva. No, no, not die, my brother — Oh ! not die ! Co/. Evadne ! sweet Evadne ! Let me hear \Evadne hecor.ics gradua/ly insensible Thy voice before I go — I prithee, speak — That even in death I may remembei- me Of its sweet sounds, Evadne — She has fainted ! Sir, I have a prayer to you. h .yr. IT.] EVADNE. 45 Spal. It shall be granted. Col. My palace is hard by — let some of these Good guardians of the law attend me thither. Evadne, for thy sake, I am almost loth To leave a world, the which, when I am gone, Thou wilt find, I fear, a solitary one !# [Exit, hearing Evadne, and followed by Spalatro and Guards, r. Scene IT. — A Prison. Enter Ludovico. r., meeting Spalatro, l. Lud. Where is Colonna % — Not yet arrived 1 Spnl. Guarded, he bore His sister to his palace, from the which He will be soon led here. — Lud. Spalatro, as 1 passed, a rumor came, Colonna's sword had but half done the work, And that Vicentio was not stabbed to death — ]f he still lives — but till 1 am sure of it, ,No need to speak my resolution, — Thou art his friend — Sjml. Such I'm indeed accounted. But, save yourself, none doth deserve the name. Lud. Then, hie thee hence, Spalatro, to inform me If yet Vicentio breathes — [Sjmlairo crosses, u.] — and after- wards, I'll make some trial of thy love to me. [Exit Spalatro, r. d. Etiter CoLONXA, Officer, and eight Guards, l. Col. Conduct me to my dungeon ! — I have parted From all that bound my bosom to the world — Ludovico ! Lud. The same. Col. Come you, my lord, To swill with drunken thirst, the poor revenge That makes a little mind's ignoble joy ? Lvd. Guards! I discharge Colonna from your care ; He is no more your prisoner — Hence ! [Exeunt Officer and Guards^ L. My lord, 46 LVADNE. [ACT IV Such is the vengeance of Ludovico ! Col. What is a man, doomed to the stroke of death, To understand by this 1 Lud. That I am his fiiend, Who called me traitor ! Col, Such I call you still. Lud. Weil, the^, I am a traitor. Col. There is here A kind of marvellous honesty, my lord. Lud. In you, 'twas nobleness to bear the charge, " And yet 'twas glory to deserve it, too. " Your father was the tutor of the king, " And loyalty is your inheritance — *' 1 am not blind to such exalted virtue," And I resolved to win Colonna's heart, As hearts like his are won ! — Unto the king, Soon as Vicentio's fate had reached mine ear, I hastened and implored your life. CoL My life !— Well, sir, my life 1 [ With indifference, Lud. Upon my knees I fell. Nor can 1 speak the joy that in my heart Leaped, when 1 heard him say, that thou shouldst live. Col. I am loth to owe you gratitude, my lord, But, for my sister's sake, whom I would not Leave unprotected on the earth, I thank you ! Lvd. You have no cause to thank me ; for, Colonna, He did pronounce your death, e'en, as he said, He gave you life. Col. I understand you not. Lud. Your honour's death, Colonna, which I hold The fountain of vitality. Col, Go on ! I scarce did hear what did concern my life, But aufjlit that touches honour — Lud. Oh ! Colonna, I almost dread to tell thee. CoL Priihee, speak ! You put me on the rack ! Lud. Wilt thou promise me, — I will not ask thee to be calm, Colonna, — Wilt promise me, that thou wilt not be mad 1 Scene I.] EVADNE. 47 Crd. "VS'hate'er it be, I will contain myself. You said 'twas somethino: that concerned mine honour, The lionour of mine house — he did not dare To say my blood should by a foul attaint 13e in ray veins corrupted ; from their height The mouldering banners of my family ^ Flung to the earth ; the 'scutcheons of my fame Trod by dishonour's foot, and my great race Struck from the list of nobles 1 Lud. No, Colonna, Struck from the list of men ! — he dared to ask As a condition for thy life, (my tongue Doth falter as I speak it, and my heart Can scarcely heave,) by heavens, he dared to ask That, to his foul and impious clasp, thou shouldst Yield up thy sister. Cot. Ha! Lud. The king doth set a price Upon thy life, and 'tis thy sister's honour. Col. My sister ! Lud. Ay, thy sister ! Col. What ! — my sister ! Lud. Yes ! — your sister, sir, — Evadne ! Col. Evadne 1 Thou hast plunged into mine ear A sword of fire, and draw'st it to and fro Athwart my brain — my sister ! Lad. Hold, Colonna ! Col. By yon heaven. Though he were born with immortality, I will find some way to kill him ! My sister ! Lud. Do not waste in idle wrath — Col. My fathers ! do you hear it in the tomb? Do not your mouldering remnants of the earth Feel horrid animation in the grave, And strive to burst the ponderous sepulchre, And throw it off? — My sister! oh! yon heavens! Was this reserved for me 1 for me ! — the son Of that great man that tutoied him in arms, And loved iiim as myself? — 1 know you wonder That tears are dropping from my flaming eyelids; of a burning heart, 48 EVADNE. |-AcT W. And these are drops of fire. — My sister! Lud. Now — Do you now call me traitor ] Do you think 'Tw.'is such a crime, from off my country's heart To fling this ingubus of royalty ? — Am I a traitor •is't a sin, my loi'd, To think a dagger were of use in Naples 1 Col. Thou shalt not touch a solitary hair Upon the villain's head ! — his life is mine ; His heart is grown my property — Ludovico, None kills him but myself! — I will, this moment, Amid the assembled court, in face of day, Rush on the monster, and, without a sword, Tear him to pieces ! [^Going^ X., hud. Nay, Colonna, Within his court he might perchance escape you — But, if you do incline to do a deed Antiquity would envy, — with the means He hath furnished you himself! — He means, Colonna, In your own house that you should hold to-night A glorious revelry, to celebrate Your sovereio^n's sacred presence ; and so soon As all the guests are parted, you yourself Should lead your sister to him — CoL That 1 should Convert the palace of mine ancestors Into a place of brothelry — myself! — Tell me no more, 1 prithee, if thou wouldst I should be fit for death ! — Lud. In honour be A Roman, an Italian in revenge. " Waste not, in idle or tempestuous sound, " Thy great resolve. The king intends to bear " The honour of his presence to your house." — Nay, hold ! — I'll tell him you consent — he straight Will fall into the snare, and then, Colonna, Make offering of his blood to thy revenge ! Col. I thank thee for thy warning — 'tis well thought on — . I'll make my vengeance certain, and commend Thy wisdom in the counselling. Lud, Then, hie thee hence ! V ^NEl.] LVADXE. 49 .*. !;d make meet pivparation for the banquet. J 11 sti-yigiit return, and tell him you're all joy in the honour of Ins coming. Col. The rigorous muscles of my clenched hand Already feel impatience for the blow That strikes the ci owned monster to the heart. [Exeunt, ColonnO^ l., Ludojico^ r. END OI' ACT IV ACT V , Scene I. — A vast Hall i/t Colonna^s Palace, filled with Statues. — The Moon streams in through the Gothic win- dows, and appears to fall upon the Statues. A Cham- her-door at bach. Eiiter LuDOVfco a7id the King, r. Lud. This is the way, my liege. Colonna bade me Conduct you to your chamber, while he went To seek the fair Evadne, and conduct Her soft reluctance to your highness' arms. King. Ludovico, thou hast proved thyself to-day The genius of my happier destiny ; Thee must I thank, for 'twas thy rarer wit Did guide me on to heaven. Lud. [Aside.] I'll send you there. King. When first I heard Vicentio fell beneath The hot Colonna's sword, I do confess, It smote me sore ; but now 'tis told abroad, That he hath passed all peril. Lud. I am glad His death doth not conduct you to your joys, Vicentio bears a slight, unhanuing wound. That sheds his blood, but perils not his life ; But let him pass — let not a thought of him Flit round the couch of love. King. Good night, ray friend, And pnthee, bid Colonna swiftly lead her To the Expecting transports of my heart. t; 50 EVA D.N E. [ActV Lud. I will bid him speed her coyness. King, Hie lliee, I^udovico, For every moment seems an age. [Exit into chamber ^ ii. u. E, Lud. An age ! For you, nor minute, hour, nor day, nor year, Nor age, shall shortly be. •* 'Tis now the dead of night — That sounds to me " Like an apt word, — for nature dcth to me *' Show like a giant corse. — This mighty world, •' Its wide and highly-vaulted sepulchre, " And yonder moon a tomb-lamp ! when the king " Lies dead to boot, all things wHl then appear " In a more full proportion." — Ha ! he comes ! My dull and unconscious instrument ! — Colonna ! Enter Colonna, with a ddggcr, l. u. e. AVelcome, my friend, for such I dare to call you.— The king's already to his bed retired, Where death will be his paramour. Col. I have heard Vicentio was not wounded unto death — Would this were sooner known ! Lud. Why, my good lord I Col. Because the king would not have offered me Such an indignity, nor should I now Tread into murder. L?zd. Murder! — I had hoped You would not, on the threshold of the deed. Stay tottering thus — One would deem It was a deed of sin, and not of honour. That you had undertaken. CoL By yon heaven, 1 cannot stab him like a slave that's hired To be a blood-shedder ! I cannot clench This hand, accustomed to a soldier's sword, Around this treacherous hilt, and with the other Squeeze the choked spirit from the gasping throat- Then kneel upon bis bosom, and press out The last faint sigh of life ! Down, damned steel ! Fit instrument fur cowards — [Throtrs down the dagger net R.] I will play SrtNK I.] kvadm;. 51 A warrior's part, and arm him for the fight ! — Give me thy sword, that I may put defence Into the tyrant's hand, and nobly kill him. Come forth ! [ Go'nig to r. u. e. Lud. Hold, madman, hold! — what wouldst thou do 1 Col, Bravely encounter him — not take his life Like a mercenary stabber. Lud. Hast thou thought That he may be tlie victor, too ] Col My death Will not be thought inglorious. Lud. There's some praise In falling by the hand of royalty; But when you are laid within your sepulchre, And rot most honourably, then, I fear me, A lesser shame will not befall your house For all the graven marbles on your tomb ! Your sister — Col Ha! hud,. Your sister will not find, When you are dead, a bulwark in your grave. Where will she find a guardian arm 1 — thine arm Will be the food of the consuming worm, While in the hot embraces of the king — Col I did not think on that. Lud. But I perhaps mistake you all this while— You have better thought upon the dignity He means your house. Col You do not dare — Lud. 1 dare to tell you this — Who can forgive such injury as thine, Hath half consented to it. — '' How is it ** The glorious resolve hath cooled within thee 1 ** Hath anything befallen that should have blow^n "On the red iron of thy heated wrath, " And steeped thee back to meekness V — Was the touch Of his warm amorous hand, wherein he. palmed Her struggling fingers, ice upon your rage When he did tread upon her yielding foot Beneath the cloth of gold — Col If I had seen it, I?*j had not lived an instant I 52 V.VADNE. -Act V Lvfl. When you turuetl, He flung his arms around, and on Iier cheek 11 o pressed his ravenous lips ! — 'Sdeath, sir, consider — You pray the King of Naples to your roof, — You hail his coming in a feast that kings Could scarce exceed in glory — It is blown Through all the city, that he sleeps to-night Within your sister's bed; and, it is said, That you, yourself, have smoothed the pillow down. CoJ. Where is he 1 let me see him who presumes To think the blasphemy. Lud. Behold him here ! I, sir — yes, I — Ludovico, dare think With every man in Naples, if the king Should leave your roof with life, that he has tasted The fruit he came to pluck. Col. No more — no more- He perishes, Ludovico ! Lud. That's well — I am glad to see you pull into your heart [Crosses and tal-es up the dagger. Its brave resolve again — and if there be Aught wanting to confirm thee, think, Colonna, Think that you give your country liberty, AVhile you revenge yourself! — Go, my Colonna — Yonder's the fated chamber — plunge the steel [Gives the dagger to Colonna. Into his inmost heart, and let the blood Flow largely. Col. I'll call to thee when it is done. Lud. Hark thee ! he'll cry for life — and well I know The pleadino^ for existence may have power Upon thy noble nature — then, Colonna, Drown every shriek with chaste Evadne's name, And stab him as thou criest it ! [Exit, r. u. e. [Colonna advances towards the chamber door, c. CoL I will do it ! — he dies ! [Pushes the dour, and Jinds, from his agitated condi- tion, that it is difficult to move. •* I can scarce move the door — it will not yield ! ** It seems as if some mighty hand were laid ** Against it lo /epel me." ScEWt: I.] EVADNE, 53 [Voice exclaims, i,. u. e.] Hold ! Col. [Starting.] It was only My thought informed the air with voice around me*— " Why should I feel as if I walked in guilt, " And tnid to common murder" — he shall die ! Come, then, enraging thought, into my breast, And turn it into iron ! [ Voice, L. u. E.J Hold ! Col. It shot With keen reality into mine ear. A figure in the shad(nv of the moon, Moves slowly on my sight. What art thou 1 EvADNE advances, l. u. e., /'ro7n behind the Statues. Eta. My brother ! Col. How, my sister! Come you across my purpose 1 Eva. From my chamber That to the great hall leads, I did behold you. In dreadful converse with Ludovico. — Your looks at the banquet did unto my fears Forbode no blessed issue, for your smiles Seemed veils of death, and underneath your brows I saw the silent furies. — " Oh, Colonna, — " Thank heaven, the safety of Vicentio " Has given me power to watch your dangerous steps !* What would you do 1 ^ Col. Get thee to rest. ^ Eva. Is that high front, Colonna, One to write Cain upon? — Alas, Colonna, I did behold you with Ludovico, By yonder moon, and I as soon had seen thee Commune with the great foe of all mankind — What wouldst thou do ? Col. Murder! Eva. What else, Colonna, Couldst thou have learned from Ludovico ? Col. In yonder chamber lies the king — I go To stab him to the heart ! Eva. ' fis nobly done ! I will not call him king — but guest, Colonna — 54 EVADNE. [Act V, Remember, you have called him here — remember, You have pledged Ijim in your father's golden cup ; Have broken bread ^vith him — the man, Colonna — Col. Who dares to set a price upon my life — What think'st thou 'twas ] Eva, I think there's naught too dear To buy Colonna's Hfe. Col. 'Twas a vast price He asked me, then — you were to pay it, too — It vv^as mv Evadne's honour. Eva. Ha ! Col. He gives my life upon condition — Oh, my sister, I am ashamed to tell thee what he asked. " Eva, What ! did he 1" Col. Thou dost understand me now ? Now, if thou wilt, abide thee here, Evadne, Where thou mayest hear his groan. [Going in, Eva. Oh ! my dearest brother. Let not this hand, this pure, this white, fair hand. Be blotted o'er with blood. Col. [Aside.] How is this ] She seems To bear too much of woman in her heart ; She trembles — yet she does not slirink — her cheek Is not inflamed with anger, and her eye Darts not the lightning ! Is it possible She has t^en the sinful wish into her heart 1 By heaven, her pride is dazzled at the thought Of having this same purple villain kneel, Aud bend his crown before her — She's a woman ! Evadne ! Eva. Weil? Col. The king expects me t(^ Conduct you to his chamber — Shall I do so ? Eva. 1 prithee, be not angry at my orayer — But bid him come to me. Col. What, bid him come to thee? Eva. And leave me with him here. Col. What! leave thee with him? Eva. Yes, I implore it of tliee — prithee, Colonna, Conduct my sovereign here. Col. \ Aside. \ Yes — I will try her — ScEJrv; 1 EVADNE. 55 I knov^ not what she means, but, hitherto, I deemed her vittuous. If she fall, she dies, rn here coticeal myself, and if in word She give consent, I'll rush upon them both And strike one heart through the other. Eva. Send him to me. Col. [Aside.] There's a wild puipose in her solemn eye — I know not if 'tis sin, but I will make A terrible experiment. — [Aside.] What, ho ! My liege, I bear fulfilment of my promise — Colonna bears Evadne to your arms ! Enter the \\.isg froin the chamher, m. d. King. Colonna, my best friend, how shall I thank thee \ But where is my Evadne ? Col. There, my lord ! King. Colonna, I not only give thee life, But place thee near myself; hencefo?th thoa wilt wear A nobler title in thy family, — And to thy great posterity we'll send My granted dukedom. Col. Sir, you honour me. My presence is no longer needed here. [Aside.] A word's c-onsent despatches them \ [Conceals himself hehind. the 'pillarn^'^ U g. King. My fair Evadne ! lay aside thy sad ^^ And diooping aspect, in this hour of joy ! Stoop not tliy head, that like a pale rose bends Upon its yielding stalk — thou hast no cause For such a soft abashment, for be sure I'll [)lace thee high in hcjuour. Era. Eon our, sir ! King, (r.) Yes; I'll exalt the« into dignity, Adorn thy name with titles — All my court Shall watch the movement of thy countenance, Riches ai d power shall wait upon thy smile, And in the lightest bending of thy brow. Death and disgrace inhabit. Eva. And, my liege, That will iidiabit my own heait 1 King. Mv love ! 56 KVADXE. [Act Y Come, my Evadne — what a form is here! The imaginers of beauty did of old O'er three rich forms of sculptured excellence Scatter the naked graces ; but the hand Of mightier nature hath in thee combined All varied charms together. Era. You were speaking Of sculpture, sir — I do remember me, You are deemed a worshipper of that high art. Here, my lord, [Pointing to the Statues^ Is matter for your transports ! King. Fail- Evadne 1 Do you not mean to mock me ? Not to gaze On yonder lifeless marbles, did I come To visit you to-night, but in the pure And blue-veined alabaster of a breast, Jlicher than heaves the Parian that has wed The Florentine to immortality. Era. You deem me of a light, capricious mood, But it were hard if (woman as I am) ] could not use ray sex's privilege — Though I should ask you for yon orb of light. That shines so brightly, and so sadly there, And fills the ambient air with purity — Should you not fain, as 'tis the wont of those Vv'ho cheat a wayward child, to draw it down, .And in ik|^sheeted splendour of a stream To catches shivering brightness ! — It is my pleasure That you should look upon these reverend tornis That keep the likeness of nnne ancestry — I must enforce you to it ! — King. Wayward woman ! \\''hnt arts does s'^o intend to captivate My soul more deeply in her toils 1 Era. Behold ! [Going to a statue^ r. s. b Tiie f^lorious founder of ray family ! It is the great Rodolpho ! — Charlemagne Did fix that sun upon iiis shield, to be }-[is glory's blazoned emblem ; for at noon, When the astronomer cannot discern A spot upon the full-orbed disk of light, 'lis i5ot more b; tjl.t iban \\\<, immaculate name! Scene I.] EVADNE. ^7 With what austere and dignified regard He lifts the type of purity, and seems Indignantly to ask, if anght that springs From blood of his, shall dare to sully it With a vapour of the morning ! King. It is well ; His frown has been attempered in the lapse Of generations, to thy lovely smile. — I swear, he seems not of thy family. My fair Evadne, I confess, I hoped Another sr)rt of entertainment here. Eca. Another of mine ancestors, my liege — [Pointing to a statue l. u. b Guelfo, the murderer ! King. The murderer ! I knew not that your family was stained With the reproach of blood. Edcj. We are not wout To blush, though we may sorrow for his sin, If sin indeed it be. His castle walls Were circled by the siege of Saracens, — He had an only daughter, whom he prized More than you hold your diadem ; but when He sav\^ the fury of the infi.'lels Burst through his shattered gates, and on his child Dishonour's hand was lifted, with one blow He struck her to the heart, and with the other, ^ He stretched himself beside her. King. Fair Evadne, i must no more indulge you, ^Ise, 1 fear, Vou would scorn me f >r my patience ; prithee, love, No more of this wild phantasy ! Era. My liege, But one remains, snd when you have looked upon it. And thus complied with my reqnest, you will find me Submissive to your own. Look here, my lord, — Know you this statue ? [Pointing to a statue, l. s. e« King. No, in sooth, I do not. Eva. Nay — lo.)k again — for I shall think but ill Of princely memories, if you can find vVithin the inmost chambers of your heart No image like to this — look at that smile-^ 5S EVA ONE. 'Act V That smik', my liege — look at it ! Kif*g. It is your father ! Era. [B/ea/ci/ig inio exulfafion.j Ay ! — 'tis indeed my father ! — 'tis my good, Exalted, generous, and god-like father ! Whose iiiemory, though iie had left his child A naked, h(juse]e;;s roamer through the world, Were an inheritance a princess might Be proud of for her dower ! It is my father ! Whose like in honour, virtue, and the fine Integrity that cont^titutes a man, He hath not left behind him ! there's that smile, That, like per[)etual day-light, shone about him The clear and bright magnificence of soul ! Who was my father] [ Wifk a 2)fOnd and conscious interrogatory King. One, whom I confess Of higli and many virtues. Era. Is that all 1 I will help your memory, and tell you, first, That the late King of Na])les looked among The noblest in his realm for that good man, To whom he might intrust your opening youth. And f )und h'm worthiest. In the eagle's nest, Early he placed you, and beside his wing You le'arnod lo mount to gh)ry ! Underneath His pr^Jfcous care you grew, and you were once Thought grateful for his service. His whole life Was friven to your uses, and his death — [Ki/}g starts Ha! do you start, my lord 1 On Milan's plain He fought beside you, and when he beheld A sword thrust at your bosom, rushed — it pierced him He fell down at your feet, — he did, my lord ! He perished to ]>reserve you ! — \Rt'S/