S 635 Z9 1218 opy 1 M E D O II A J9*si > v MED OR A; OR, THE M AID OF 81 C I L Y gt STnigcbu, in Jfibc §>cts. BY ANNIE D'ARCY. Willi Staue Business, Cast of Characters, Costumes, Relative Positions, Etc. Euterrd. according to act of Congress, in the year 18&1, by Annie D'Aroy, in the Clerk's Office of the District Com of the United States for the Southern District of New York. 1-/ in 'COPYRIGHT A NEW YORK: SAMUEL FRENCH, PUBLI § II E R, 122 NASSAU STREET (Up Si PAIRS). Z/P fa. i ?>//&? >v* TMP92-009036 DRAMATIS PERSONS. ARANA A powerful Noble of Sicily. ORSINI The Lover of Medora. PIETRO The Friend of Orsini MARCO Lieutenant of Orsini. PAULO n CARLO ( Soldiers of Aram. STEPHANO ) MEDORA ; Betrothed to Orsini. COSTUMES. THE SCENES ARE LAID LN SICILY DURING THE MIDDLE AGES. Arana. — First Dress : Crimson shirt. Second Dress : Snit of mail— black and gold. Orsini — First Dress : Brown merino shirt and sandals. Second Dress : Suit of mail — crimson and silver — with crim- son scarf. Stephano. — Same as Arana, but plainer. Paulo. — Shirt and breastplate. Marco. — Same as Paulo —colors different. Pletro. — Shirt of mail— black and steel. Knights and Soldiers. —Shirts of mail and high boots. Medora. —White merino dress ; demi-train ; hanging-sleeves, lined with crimson and trim ned with gold. Grecian curls. MEDORA. A C T I . SCENE I. — The Battlements of the Castle of Arana, ox the Coast of Sicily. Enter Carlo, followed by Pietro, r. s. e. Carlo. No more ; 'tis vain ! Pietro. Be not a fool unto thyself ; What gold can do to win thee shall he done ; Spare my friend who is no foe of thine. The tyrant whose will holds lordly sway Within these towers will never know the Cheat thy tenderness imposes. Release the friend whose boyhood Cheered mine ! Carlo. Urge me not. I would, but Dare not. The brave Omni is hated By the lord who holds him in his grasp. And vengeance would be dire on all Who aid him now. Pietro. Detested villain ! And will the gallant Carlo serve a monster whom nor laws Of manhood nor of war hold in check ? My friend, I mistook thy nature. Carlo No. not my nature, but my duty, Rather. Pietro. One word more : Orsini has not, As some fearful rumors say, fallen by The assassin's steel ? Carlo. He lives. But the Lady Medora's Advent iu these walls is untimely; her Pleading to Arana ? s gloomy breast, 1 M E D O R A Fear, will not redeem her lover from One pang reserved within the doom His captor meditates. Pietro. If any spark of virtue dwells within thee. Lead me. Carlo — show me the dungeon of My friend ! Carlo. On the summit of the rock which faces Westward from these battlements, is scooped A cell of fatal horror, where lingering captives Oft have sighed in vain — where Death's Cold hand alone could play the liberator. Pietro. Fell villain ! Is this the end reserved For the noble, brave Orsini ? gentle. Loving Medora ! in vain. I fear, indeed, Will be thy words, though soft as music's Sweetest notes, and all thy prayers of Love and grief, to shield thy lover from The steel he never feared in battle, When— Enter Paulo, l. Paulo. Where is our chief ? Our forces, beaten back within the walls. Were met and hotly followed by A slaughtering band of Orsini^hercest Horde ! Haste to the rescue ! No time for parley ! I must seek Avana's Presence ! [Crosses r., and exits, followed by Carlo. Pietro. Just Heavens, look down and aid The Captive now, shower your vengeance On the head of foul oppression, and Paralyze the murderer's desperate arm ! [Noise and confusion heard without, shout*, etc. Enter Medora, l. u e. Medora. Pietro. Medora. Victorious heroes ! Brave followers of Orsini^banner ! Let the wild tempest rage, till in one Wide o'erv. helming ruin scattered, Lie all the savage forces of Arana's pride, And freed Orsini leaps joyous to these arms ! And grant the moment when Pietro' s steel Shall from its scabbard leap, and cut A path of freedom for his friend ! E'en whilst I shudder, my soul in daring seems To tower, Pietro, at the sweet, wild thought of Orsini free ! M E D O R A Pietro. Medora. Pietro. Medora Pietro. Medora. Pietro. Medora . [Crosses L. Brave maid of Sicily ! Well may that Title be bestowed on thee ; for not a warrior Of more courageous soul bears brand within This isle. Nor aught so tender blooms beneath its shades And yet a dread — a pale horror — Doth oppress that spirit which thou Laudest thus. But still the gallant Marco, the brave lieutenant of Orsini, Comes, armed with the power of his captive Lord. Eager to redress, He leads the war ; and grant him victory, Heaven ! A little while, and then, within These cursed walls, triumphant Let him stand ! And yet I fear for thee. Would thou wert safe in some Distant retreat, where Here let me always be, until My brave, my noble, generous Orsini bear Me hence. His freedom, bought with the Dearest blood that courses through These veins, were cheap. Let Heaven, who knows Each secret feeling of my soul — the agony that Bends it — witness my resolve ! Oould I desert the being I adore ? — ■ The lover of my girlhood — the husband Of my heart ? I sought Arana's presence, And prayed to him for mercy ; Implored him spare the noble victim that Chance of battle thus had cast in Fetters at his feet. Nay, besought the Tyrant to permit my aching heart to seek His dungeon — my hands to bathe his fevered Brow and bind his wounds ! That act of tenderness and truth, Though never done, shall merit all That Heaven can bestow. Ye Powers above, in freedom let Me once more behold him ! If he be free, Medora is content to die. Far from me be the thought to add One fear unto thy breair"; but Dread misgivings No more, Pietro ; in pity say no Moi The flame that glows within me Ne'er shall know despair— ne'er be quenched ! Despondent man ! The furious tyrant, I MEDORA. In his den of blood, is caught at Last. Ruin on every side encompasses These walls. His haughty and oppressive soul Will grovel in the dust before The shiningkfands Orsini's heroes Wield, and death reward him in the Fatal hour ! [Grosses r. Pietro. The tyrant comes, lady ! Disguise All feeling -drown all your sorrows in A show of joy. At least, restrain your Detestation fur your foe. Lady, he comes. Enter Arana, Stephaxo, and four Knights. Anuui. The vain, accursed Orsini ! He at least, is in my grasp. The foe I hate is in my power. Then, let his Myrmidons battle their fill. These towers Are lofty, and these walls are strong. In vain ye thunder at their gates. Sooner than yield them to the Victorious arms of base Orsini, with my Own hand I'd throw the burning brand, And in one wide, consuming ruin Behold their blackened stones and scorching Beams ! [Crosses l, Medora. Oh. Arana ! if anguish tortures my Distracted breast— if frenzy holds Fearful sway within this brain — Pity, oh ! pity my despair. My grief Is madness ! I cannot know relief. All miseries are mine, until ray prayers Have gained favor in thy heart. Reserve Thy vengeance ! Evince a brave revenge ! Preserve thy foe, and take an humble Maiden's thanks— the unutterable thankfulness Of a breaking heart ! Oh ! spare him— spare Orsini— and Medora shall live but to bless Thy name. Be merciful, my lord ! Aram. [Aside.] Her beauty maddens me ; yet not Unwilling love I covet. Could I win her, by Heaven, A double vengeance would he mine, and I Could crush the very heart within Orsini's breast ! Her loveliness makes my hatred more ! Has he not outdone me in manhood's Noblest chase, ambition's aim, crossed me In my boldest schemes, derided me anions: MEDORA. My peers, and o'erthrown me in the Battle's heat? But, stay — I must dissemble ! [c] Divine Medora ! [Aloud. Do not deem me cruel ; accuse me not Of aught that would distress thy tender Bosom ! Believe me, I would give All freedom to Orsini ; but my followers Demand, for many a wanton act of Cruelty of his when red battle had Rendered him triumphant, that he Shall pay the forfeit ! Still, thy youth, thy grief, thy beauty, Pierce me with a thousand darts ; And for one look of pity for the Wounds thy loveliness inflict, I'd kneel Before thee, renounce my vengeance, Turn recreant to my followers, and Be thy willing, loving, and devoted Slave ! [ Takes her ha)\d. Medora. [b. c. ] Direct me now, ye Heavenly Powers ! My lord, seek not to win a heart I cannot give. My love, thou knowest, Is another's. Orsini is my affianced Lord. He owns my heart, and where That goes, my hand goes also. [ Withdraws her hand, and crosses l. Enter Paulo, e. Paido. My lord ! Arana. How now ? Paulo. The enemy scales the western battlements ; Our men, exhausted with the desperate work, in Under-breathing murmur forth thy name, And crave thy presence and inspiring voice. Arana. I come. [Exit Paulo, e. — Shouts without. Medora, farewell ! Within this hour I'll seek Thy presence, and again implore thy Love. Medora. In vain ! My lord, the^e words of thine Are insults to my ear ! My love, my heart, My soul, are all Orsini's own ! Sooner than yield a single look of love To thee — the direst foe of him whose Lightest tones to me were rapturous as An angel-choir — I'd fling this form from Off these battlements, and hie a 10 -M E D O R A . Mangled, shapeless mass, within yon Dark abyss ! Aram. Beware! or, if not thine own, Orsini's form shall Greet thy eye, within yon chasm, ere To-morrow's sun. [Exit B.,/o#oiced by Knights. Medora. Hold back, despair ! If my lover dies, why, then — Mercy, Heaven ! I cannot bear the Fearful thought ! The weakness of my Sex forbids my arm to strike ! Great Powers, defend the righteous now ! Let not yon guilt-stained villain Prosper in the fight, Or nerve this woman's arm and steel her heart To deeds of horror and revenge ! [Exit l. END OF ACT MEDORA. 11 ACT II. SCENE I. — Another part of the Battlements — A Tower on the Left. Carlo discovered guarding the entrance of the tower. ( urlo. Who's there ? Stand ! Who, and what art thou ? Enter Medora, r. u. e. Medora, No hostile foot approaches. In me no warlike Valor can alarm. I am a Friend. No stealthy foe is here to surprise Thy watch. A lowly suppliant I come. Alas ; my strength forsakes my weary frame. Carlo. Thine intent! unfold! quick, speak Thy purpose here. Medora. Let not distrust annoy thy breast, A miserable woman in her anguish comes to Thee, and at thy feet implores thy aid. Thou Hast the power. Relieve this bleeding heart. Show mercy to my woe. Carlo. Why, lady, will thou thus, when All nature is hurried in repose, forsake Thy couch of rest ? Medora. All, all may rest in peace when Naught disturbs the heart ; but when ten Thousand pangs are torturing the soul, how Vain the hope for quiet. Oh ! give Me but to see him. Within this gloomy Tower I know he pines in misery, and How can I find comfort for agony like Mine ? ( urlo. Lady, I dive not, or if — Medora. To do this act would be a virtue, . If ever thou hast known the power Of love — the tortures of suspense— aid The suppliant being at thy feet. Were she thou lovest pleading at another's Feet, as I at thine, for one slight interview With thee, think, how wouldst thou feel To know repulse would be her sole Reward. ! yield, in mercy, 12 MEDORA. Yield to my demand. I know thy generous soul would, were That thy fate, yearn as mine does now, And feel a power within it to rend Rocks of marble to attain its end. Think these fears and dreads thine own, And pity mine. [Rises. ( 'arlo. Withdraw, withdraw, I dare not ; Thy tears and prayers are vain. Medora. What! has murder done its Foul work, then ? Assassins, have Ye destroyed the form I love ? [ Crosses r. ( 'arlo. This wild, distracting grief is vain ; Retire and seek repose. Medora. Thinkst thou, inhuman as thou art, These linibs can know repose, this heart Assuage its pangs ? Never! at thy feet V bleeding corse I'll lie, and leave the Guilt of murder on thy soul. By all The cruel fates that ever severed Faithful loves, I swear to crimson With my heart's warm blood the fearful Threshold of Orsini dungeon ! [Drawing her dagger and kneeling, Carlo. Hold! hold! I yield. [Raising her"] Enter ; such faithfulness Would melt the savage breast of tigers. Medora. My tears alone can requite thy goodness And speak my thanks. ( 'arlo. Yon lamp will guide thy steps. [Pointing through the archway of the tower. Medora. This act shall be rewarded. The Heavens will recompense thy generous Virtue, for Heaven commends the deed. [Enters the tower. I Mo. My faith to Arana's broken, but My duty to the suffering of a bleeding Heart is done, and what the forfeit May be, I'll pay freely. [Exit l. SCENE H. — Change of scene — Inside of Orsini's Dungeon. Orsini and Medora discovered. The former in chains. Orsini. And didst thou then, to gaze upon Me once again, my own Medora, dare all The wrath the tyrant could inflict? MEDORA 13 Medora Orsini. Medora. Orsini. And do I hold within my fettered Arms the being I adore ? Oh, my beloved ! Medora ! Heavens, do I hold her In these arms again. Are all my Dreams of horror then dispelled ? I thank Thee, Heaven, for tlms bestowing upon my Heart a boon like this. Thy own lieutenant, Marco, closely Besieges this stronghold of our foe, And Arana dreads success will crown his Efforts. If fate should not decree success, As thou depicts, unto the arms of Faithful Marco— if these limbs should Never know freedom more, and this Dungeon should become my tomb — Medora, What doom awaits thee, then ? My heart Recoils with horror at the thought ! Medora. I have no fear but what attends Thy fate, Orsini ! no thought but for Thy freedom. When thou art gone — when Earth beholds thee no more — then is Medora's Life a worthless burthen. Then will she Seek the grave, where sorrows end ! Our souls may reunite above, and Joys eternal be our own. But if Arana— and well I know the villain would not scruple, for No honor dwells within his breast— if Arana, Bloated with triumph and gloating on Bevenge, should dare to ask thy love, Thy I have a dagger, and no female Weakness shall intervene to withhold my Hand. When thou art lost, then all is gone, And Arana would behold Medora's lifeless Form, but never know her love ! Sure faith like thine is rare even in the Brightest of thy sex. When stricken down beneath the sword of Arana's band, And rescue was in vain — when dragged before My foe, and manacled and wounded, And plunged into this ceil — my thoughts Were wandering to thee. I painted thee, in fancy, In a thousand ways. I deemed that fate Might crush thee, as it had thy lover— That thy woman's strength could not resist Orsini. Jdedcra. Orsini. 14 M E D O R A . The pressure of misfortune's direful strokes ; And that, exhausted, thou wouldst sink Beneath th' accumulated woes, too heavy To be borne by gentleness like thine. I knew Thee tender, loving, virtuous, and true — I did not deem thee the heroic maid I Find thee now. Heaven forefend a fate That made Lucretia's name immortal should Be tftine, my love. If death unto thy Lover be the worst that can ensue, I care not ; but 'tis hard, in the full Flush of love, of manhood, and of manhood's Hopes, to die. Yet, Medora, should that Indeed be the doom in store for me, seek out The faithful Marco ; tell him to lead thee To the cot deep-hidden in Sicilian wilds, Where the fond, attached, and faithful being— The foster-mother of Orsini— dwells ; and there Deliver thee in trust to her whose tenderness Watch'd o'er my infancy, guarded the Footsteps of my boyhood, and loved me As her son. Tell her that my dying care Transferred thee to her own. Medora. Oh, peace, Orsini ! Let not these Gloomy thoughts distract thy breast. A day Of freedom, of happiness and love, methmks, Will yet be ours ; when we may seek The sweet security together, and bury in obscurity And bliss all memoiy of former woe. Let war And all its fierce alarms forever cease, and in our Own delight, we will forget that ever they existed. For obscurity and peace, within some vale, Secluded from the angry blasts that do disturb This sad and boisterous world, are surely Boons to be desired. To dwell beside some Gentle stream, whose banks lend rich odors To the wooing winds, where all the rich Tints and gentle joys that deck the Teeming earth may be our own, and where, When night's star-lit dome of aziu'e Softness beams above, with joined hands and Joyous hearts we'll thank the All-Wise Being who ruies the universe for ' the Calm delights that such existence knows. And when our earthly course be run, we'll hope That that clear heaven shall be our home Forever ! But why despondent dost thou hang Thy head, and why do gloomy thoughts o'ershade MBDORA. 15 Thy brow ? Tell me, Orsini, does the Picture I so feebly draw delight thee not '? Has Medora no power to «ai».the sadness from Thy soul? £*£££) Orsini. Thy words, my gentle one, are balm to Heal a thousand hearts, though Kack'd and bleeding with a thousand doubts And fears. No, my Medora, we will not Yield to woe ; we will be merry, love. What matters these chains of iron — These walls of solid blackness, and the Tyrant's will, that dooms my freedom To their horrid bondage. Marco — my Faithful Marco — well can lead my men To conquest ; and Pietro, though seemingly the Faithful vassal of Arana, is my foster-brother, As thou knowest ; — none within these walls Suspect Pietro — do they, dearest ? Medora. None ; he came a stranger From a far-distant part of Italy. at hearing of thy capture. None know h:m, and Arana deems Him a willing tool to work his will. So far, all favors the dear-sought object Of my heart. With thee and freedom That I cannot doubt, Orsini. This aching Bosom that panteth now with hope And visions of a future ^i^ _,, [Enter Cablo, l. t'arlo. No longer must this interview Be held. Arana questions • . suspects, And seeks even now this lady's presence. Orsini. How ! what ! Medora. I come, v ,, faithful friend. He knows not of this stealthy interview. Does he, ? Carlo. No ; but he marvels that thy presence' Does not adorn the banquet, where, Surrounded by some followers, choice and Familiar friends, he quaffs his Greek wine In heavy draughts, drinking success unto his Arms, and confusion to his foes. Thrice has He dispatched Pietro to bring thee to The Hall, and now, with savage oaths. He wonders at thy obstinacy. Medora. What shall I do ? Tell me, Orsini. Orsini. Stir not. Remain, Medora. Here let the villain seek thee out. Lend 16 MEDORA Me thy dagger. Medora. No, no. Let not rashness counsel aught; Cool judgment now must aid our cause. conduct me to thy master, and the Secret of this act of mercy unto two Distracted souls shall never be divulged. If fortune ever favors those in misery now, Best well assured thy recompense is Certain. Carlo. Enough, lady, my heart applauds The deed I've done, and richer recompense Than that I seek not. Medora. Farewell, my Orsini ! [Rushing into his arms. Orsini. Adieu, iny love ! Medora. Remember, whatever fate has yet In store of woe for me, the truth and Endless love of her now folded to thy Breast. Farewell. [Exeunt Medoea and Cablo. Orsini. Propitious fates, be guardians of her Steps. Conduct her through the ordeal That love and truth demand. Upon Arana's Head pour down your wrath, eternal Powers. Oh, my Medora, how welcome were All the horrors of this dungeon and captivity, if Thy tender breast were but secured from All the wild suspense that harrows every Thought. Grant me freedom, Heaven. Grant Success unto Marco's arms. Shower destruction On our foes. Let not the faithfulness, the love, the Devotion, of the being I adore be unavailing. Let Not her tears be shed for naught ; her tenderness Be repaid with black despair ; her Watchfulness and all her fears end in unredeemed woe END OF ACT II, MEDORA 17 ACT III. .SCENE I.— The Banqueting Hall in the Castle Arana. Stephano, Knights, Guests and Revellers discovered sealed. Arana. Drain your goblets: quaff to the success of Our arms ! Down with Orsini ! All. Down with Orsini ! Arana. "Where is Pietro .' Stephano, Not returned, my lord. Arana. Seek him, Stephano. [Exit Stephano, l. The generous j nice of Cyprus vineyards Thrills my heart : my blood runs hot, and Madly through my veins ; in vain the smugglings Of reluctant honor, Medora must be mine. This Night shall seal Orsini' s doom ; all the wealth of Gold untold cannot redeem him ; too long like a Fearful fool, I've tarried in the act. I've nought To gain by mercy ; no, be that the Coward's Virtue. Yet hold, will slaying him Win the way to Medora' s heart? Bah ! what Care I for the heart. Her form is all I ask. I will possess that beauteous form ; no power Can stay my hand. No voice deny my will Within these walls. And yet I would not have my Memory blackened by deeds of infamy that No future course xan . - hide from The prying eye of busy censure ; and yet, She will not let act of priesthood e'en give Sanction to my love. N of laws of church. Nor man shall keep her from my arms— she Shall be mine ! Drink, followers of Arana, Drink to the fair Medora, the mistress Of your chief ! All. To the fair Medora, the mistress of our chief? Aram. The mistress of your chief.' r.. enter Medora, preceded by Pietro and Stephano. Arana. Ah, she comes ! Welcome to the banquet. 3Iedora. My lord, I am no fit guest in hall like This. Why insult the helpless ? the rudest soldier 18 MEDORA Arana. Medora. Arana. 3Ldora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. In thyjiand would name e'er he would offer Useless, wanton insults to a captive ! Yet a willing one. [Comes down the stage. False ! Free were they thy steps, when thou did'st seek These walls And the heart that urged my feet to Seek them ne'er so doubted knighthood, honor, manhood, As to deem thou couldst detain them when its will Would take them hence ; what would' st thou ? speak, And end this conference, abhorrent to my nature And idle as abhorrent. Idle ! then thou guessest at my wish , and Hast resolved to dare my — yet beware ; I Hold Orsini's life within my grasp, one word of Thine can hasten on the doom I meditate, or set him Free forever. How ! free ? Speak Arana ; say that Word again, and though the tongue that utters It in the same breath should order this frail Frame to tortures and to death, I'll bless it for the Word. Be mine ? Never ! Then Orsini dies Dies within this hour. Here on my limbs waste all the torture of The murderer's art ; let new systems of torments Be essayed, and in the pangs that rend And agonize me then. I'll bless thy name, Arana, If thou wilt free Orsini ! Think in yon dread Dungeon where loathsome reptiles, creatures of slime And darkness, are his sole companions, how^KfLt" Gallant spirit yearns for liberty, think amid thy Cups of this, and let one gleam of mercy Penetrate thy soul. He was an open foe ; had Chance of battle laid thee fettered at his feet, Dost deem he would have held thee thus ? Canst think he could have joyed to know thy Spirit pined in misery ; that thy limbs were Galled by the biting chain, and the uncouth Savagery of goalers was all the language Met thy ear ? No solace to thy breast, From outward showing of thy fellow -ruan from Opening morn to weary eve ? Oh, Arana ! think when at the judgment seat Of the All-seeing, thou stand'st in the final hour, What will the horror of thy soul be then ? when In avenging tones thy cruel deeds are all MEDORA 19 Retold, and an eternal doom pronounced upon thy Head ; when no remorse can save thee ; no suppliant Tone can aid thee ! for thy soul's sake — Arana, pity and aid the captive in thy power. Aram. In vain ! thy pleadings are in vain. Dost think, that for a maiden's whim, the Foolish fancy of a woman's heart, I'd part With all that fortune flings into my hand ? Well can'st thou play the pleader ; but try Thy skill on simpler souls ; my heart thy Beauty vanquishes, but thy logic never can Convince my reason, although I'd almost Change places with my deadly foe, to know Such lovely lips, with such sweet eloquence. Would plead for me ; but were such my &v4ht~ Dreary fate, how vain the thought that ^wuifflju ii l Of tenderness or pity could be felt by tnee, or uttered By thy lips ; no, lady ; when power is held in an Enemy's hand, I well know how easily the heart Finds words to flatter and to fawn. What wouldst Thou give to free thy lover ? Be generous, and The morrow's sun sees him in safety far beyond These walls. Medora. My life. Arana. Thyself. Medora. Monster ! sooner the cold coil of the Serpent shall entwine my form, than thy loathed Anns embrace me. No, my Orsini ! death Comes but once ; life dies, but honor is immortal. Then welcome all this tyrant can inflict. Together shall our souls seek a higher world, where infamy Like his can never come ; where sorrows cease, and And all thy schemes and bloody acts are registered, Thou slave. [Crosses, r. Arana. Vengeance ! eternal furies ! quick. Stephano ! Bring the prisoner before me ! In chains, Let him make a sport for us ; his blood shall Stain our banquet hall ; and when the purple Tide is gushing forth ; then, woman, shalt thou Know, and know in vain, one act, one word of Thine had saved him. [Exit Stephano, r. Medora. Mercy ! Oh, call thy minion back ! Arana. Be mine ! Medora. Never ; no horror like to that. Arana. I'll torture him before thy face, In slowest agonies, thou shalt behold him Pant his life away, and call on thee to save him. Medora. Oh Heaven, where are thy lightnings ; where 20 MEDORA Are thy thunderbolts : my b^ain is Maddened by his impious rage ; [Aside. A ran a, hear me ; What fell wickedness is thine S what fieud possesses All thy soul ? Do not this deed of blood ; bid me do Some fearful tiling too direful for aught but fiend to Fancy, or madness to achieve, and I will do it, but spare The man I love : there are deeds too black to name in Sin's dread catalogue, too fearful for the memory Of hatred, too wild for e'en a maniac's dream, And this is one! [Grosses l. Aram. Medora ! I yet will spare my foe if thou — I will not stain me with his blood, if thou wilt Show one gleam of hope, if thou wilt bid me live in Hope of gaining one slight feeling of compassion for my Woe. Thou dost mistake my nature to suppose All harshness dwells within my breast ; ' .. but love for thee cloth banish Every other thought, and renders fierce my hate For every obstacle, that baffles it. My form is. Manly as Orsini's, my arm as daring, and my heart As firm : my love, my faith, as lasting. Say, Then, what is it. that thou seekest more than that ? All that wealth can give, if splendor doth delight thee, Shall lie thine : thou shalt rule o'er domains as Fair and broad as any lie beneath Sicilian Sun. No form of grandeur shall be foreign to thy Ken, and all I ask in recompense, is to be thy Slave ! Pause, e'er thy speakest ; think what Thou wilt be then ! The lady of Arana's towers Were peer of any dame in Italy. Medora. I caunot. will not give a cold, consenting Form, when certain loathing would accompany the Boon. I have no love, but for yon captive whose chains Are clanking in thy dungeons. No wish, but for His freedom. Take my life, and freely, for The gift I covet. Thou ne'er canst hope for more ! Aram. Enough ! Now hear my last resolve : Orsini dies to-night ; I tell thee this in calmness, not In rage. Ponder on the thought ; when the Bell's solemn note has tolled the midnight hour, Thou shalt behold his corse, bloody and Mangled at thy feet. Eemember, I am no boy To boast and act not. Where are the slaves ? Ho ! linger ye ? Who waits Without there? [Crosses, r. Medora. Yet, yet, in mercy, pause awhile, Forget not that thou canst not shape thine MEDORA 21 Ends so, but they may be balked In the moment of thy triumph What Act of sin e'er yet escaped the penalty awarded Unto crime ? [Retires, l. Enter Stephano, r. 1 e. Stephana. My Lord, the prisoner Arana. Speak, sir, what of him ? Stephano. Cannot be found. His cell is empty. All search within the walls has been made In vain. Arana. Villain ! traitors ! where are the traitors, who Have freed him ? A thousand curses on thy tongue For telling me the news. Hence! why stand' st thou Gaping here ? Eouse all my followers. A thousand Ducats forOrsini's head. His life ! his life! [Exit Stephano, and all but Arana and Medora. But thou art still my prisoner, [To Medora] and In thee I am revenged. Is this the gallant, Brave, noble lover whom thou boasted of, To forsake his mistress in his foeman's power, To seek safety by a flight, and leave Her to any doom, he cares not what ? Mf flora. Thou slanderer! Orsini's soul is true and Great as thine is contemptible and false. I know His truth, his worth ; and in that knowledge lie The abhorrence, the pity I conceive for thee, [Crosses, r. Arana. Beware ! Goad not the lion in his den ; Humility, not pride, befit thee now, and Pleadings, not insult, were better on thy tongue. But I will forgive thee all, if thou' It relent ; All that an ardent love can offer shall be thine. If not, from these walls thou, at least, shall ne'er escape, And in some cell, whose horrors will be tenfold Greater than all thou dost imagine of imprisonment, I'll hold thee captive until thou'lt kneel For mercy to the man thou scornest now ; For he whom thou hatest has the power to Keep good every threat he utters. Medora. I care not : thou canst not make me Yield, nor hate thee less. Hear me, ye Heavens ! Ere I relent unto this man of horror, doom me To fearfullest torments, consign my limbs to Agonies untold, forsake me in my direst Need, condemn me here and hereafter ; 22 M E D O R A . Let the vilest slave that ever hugged his fetters Be a creature of joy excessive, a being to Be worshipped, an idol of adoration to all Coming time, compared to her who utters this Relentless vow. There is no power in manhood's Might to alter my resolve ; nought the heart Of cunning'st guile can utter or conceive, to make me Change or qualify the oath. [Crosses, l. Enter Carlo. Carlo. My lord, the sentinels avow, that under Cover of the darkness, the enemy has retreated From the siege. Stillness has succeeded All assaults against these battlements, and Sombre silence now possesses all the scene. Arana. Ah! Hearest thou that, Medora ? thy lover's End is gained. His daring followers are Worthy of their lord ; their flight is worthy of His leading. Who ever served a nobler chief ? What vassal ever served a braver peer ? what Maiden ever loved a truer swam, a more Devoted knight ? I marvel that thou dost Not kneel, and idolize some form thy fancy Shapes ; some creature of the u-iixjed tribe Would well, methinks, portray the god Thy morbid heart reveres. [Exit Carlo. Now, lady. I will leave thee to the sweet Thoughts thy bosom cherishes. Dwell upon his Tenderness, and ne'er forget his truth. [Exit, r. Medora. What means this action of Orsini ? He Cannot be recreant to his vows ! with Freedom, he never can forget his love ! No ! shame Upon this heart for conception of the thought. He seeks some way e'en now, whereby, doubtless, He can redeem me from Arana' s power. E'en now he seeks some opening tor The freedom of his love, and plots the Means to baffle the destroyer. Oh ! woman, How frail art thou in mild contentment's day ! How fragile in the hour of peace ; how tender In thy domestic joys ; but when love doth Nerve thee to acts of strangeness to thy Nature : how ready to assume the part Assigned thee ; be it fearful as the Roman's leap through Etna's fiery Jaws ! Oh, night i that hides my love, secure MEDORA 23 Him in thine arms ! Shield with thy mantle of Blackness the form that I adore i Let every star That decks thy solemn dome guide his steps To safety ; and when thy shadows leave the Earth, then let the morrow's sun herald him To conquest and Medora ! Re-enter Aran a, r., overhearing latter part of her speech. Arana. What, exultation is the theme ? what sanguine Soul is thine ! Vain maid, and canst thou still Delight in vision of a fancied bliss, when every Hope has flown ? Fate shows no mercy to a Love like thine; thou'rt doomed to woe, if still Thy stubbornness persist to worship that thou ne'er Shalt again behold ! Medora. Taunt me as thou wilt, thy words Can not distract one thought of love from him, Nor lend one pang to prey upon my heart. I know Orsini's free, and now defy thy Mercy and thy hate. [Oiosses, l. Arana. Defy me ! What shallow bravery ; what Mockery is this ? Knowest thou not, one word Of his thou pretendest to despise can doom Thee to the torture ? Within these walls none dare To question aught I do resolve. All here are Slaves unto my will, and thou shalt not Be more. I will bend That haughty spirit, despite thv stubborn Will, I'll [Seizes her. Medora. Help ! Unhand me, or Arana. Never ! Promise to be mine, or by the Fiends of darkness, all hope of mercy shall Be closed unto thy prayers. [Medora falls upon her knees. Medora. Unhand me, monster ! Help me. Heaven ! Arana. Swear to be mine ! Medora. Never ! Enter Carlo and Stephano. Stephano. My lord ! Arana — The eastern tower's on fire. In one Wild flame of red consuming ruin it soars Aloft into the midnight air, and illumines all the Darkness of the scene. [The conflagration seen through the windows of the banqueting hatt. Shouts, u. & l. 24 M E DOR A . Aram. [Releasing Medora.] Confusion ! Whence Comes this treason ? Ho ! treachery's at Work within these walls ! How redly glare the flames. Their heat oppresses, even here. Carlo. Hasten, my lord ! thy presence is Needed. Wild distrust unnerves thy followers. Arana. I come ! I come ! [Exit, followed by Stephano and Carlo. Medora. I thank thee, Heaven ! [She kneels.} Here, amid the Fearful glare of burning ruin, I thank Thee ; 'tis Thy hand that rescues the distressed. [Rises. How wildly, madly leaps the fearful element. Goes to the window. Shouts without, k. Aye ! shout, ye Hirelings, shout ! A sudden thought inspires me— Escape amid the wild confusion. Aid me now, all Powers divine ! [Goes w the door.] 'Tis fast ; barred Without! Mercy! [Goes to the windows alternately.] How lofty are these walls. Ha ! the smoke Comes through the casements and is stifling ; the Heat is meat ; the Oh, horrid thought ! what If the fire reach this hall ! what, if escape should be Denied me ! if all my efforts should be vain, and I Perish in these flames ! Orsini ! Orsini ! where art thou ? Some kind spirit aid me now ! how fearful this Death ! To stifle mid this hellish din ; the air seems Thick, thicker, thicker ! Oh, God ! I choke ! I— (Falls senseless. Loud shouts. Flames burning red within Casement. END F ACT M E D O R A . 25 ACT w. SCENE I. — Outside the Walls of the Castle of Aeana. Moon- light. Enter Ptetko and Orsini, l. d. e. Piefro, Here cower we awhile, my lord, until Carlo Comes, and brings us tidings of your lady's fate. Orsini. Art sure of Carlo *? If lie betray bis trust, Then all is over — nothing's left me but revenge ! Pietro. Hist ! what sound was that ? Orsini. What heard'st thou ? Pietro. 'Twas nothing — the loneliness of the hour and Orsini. Footsteps approach! Aside, and mark who Comes ! {.They retire up. Enter Carlo, r. it. e. ( urlo. Near this spot I was to meet Pietro, And give him tidings of the Lady Medora. This night's work would cost me my head, Should Arana ever make discovery of my handy Work therein. [Pietro and Orsini advance. Pietw. Who's there ?— Carlo ? ( hrlo. 'Tis I. Orsini. How fares it with my love — my Medora ?— speak ! Carlo. She lives, and pines to meet her lord : These were the words she bade me speak To thee. Orsini. And is she well, my friend, and free ? or has the Tyrant put fetters on the form I love ? Are those beau- teous Limbs bedecked with galling chains ? Tell me, I Implore thee ! Carlo. My lord, the lady is free of dungeon or Of chains, but all her acts are noted with a Jealous care. She cannot wander from the Space allotted by Arana to her movements. Orsini. For this, I thank thee, Heaven ! Nay, even Thank my foe, who thus doth spare her. Now, Friend, the news ? What hour shall see our 26 M EDO R A Carlo. Orsini. Pietro. Orsini, Entrance in yon tower, as the avengers of suffering Innocence and truth ? To-morrow ev'ning, as the vesper-bell tolls the Hour of parting day, be ready with a chosen band of Thy followers. Collect them on this spot, and I will Lead them through a secret winding-path, cut through The battlements, and leading, through the bowels of the Earth, to the very centre of Arana's stronghold. 'Tis well ; at the hour thou namest shall Thou find me here, all ready for the straggle. My bravest followers shall accompany their chief, and With thy assistance, my friend, we will accomplish AH the dearest wishes of my heart. No sleep shall Bless my eyelids until then. I will not, cannot rest, And the wildest hopes that ever racked a lover's breast Are mine ! Assist me, now, all powers that ever aided Tenderness and truth ! Guide me with your wisdom, And nerve me with your might ! Lead me through Seas of blood — I care not, so they bear me to Medora's arms ! Those walls shall totter to their base ere yon Moon rises thrice again —in the same hour illume the Scene. Love and vengeance — heroic themes ! — Herald me to conquest !— preserve me for Medora's sake ! And yet, a fearful pang doth shoot within my heart : What if, when the vesper-bell resounds within these Wilds, the hour be past and fled forever that could m Medora from the thraldom I deplore! what if Arana should execute his threat, and, furious at Delay, should bend that noble mind ! —should, By the brutal might of a reckless nature, inflict Distress too fearful to be borne, or dreamed of, but By lovers in their frenzy ! 'Arana ! shouldst thou dare to follow up this villainy By an odious act, there are no tortures in the plotting of A fiend to match with those I ponder on, nor fire, nor Poison of the deadliest roots, nor savage steel, nor Any means, how fearful soe'er, to equal the Horrors I will heap upon thy head ! [Grosses e. Be calm, my lord. Sure fortune hath not in The compass of her wide domain one spot where Such accumulated wrongs could lie and rest secure. Do not so misjudge the decrees of righteous Heaven as Suppose— should such a sin as that Arana Contemplates e'er reach its foul consummation— A fearful penance will not fall upon the Traitor's head In vain, Pietro — 'tis in vain thy M EDORA 21 Pietro. Orsini. Pietro. Orsini. Carlo. Orsini. Carlo. Pietro. Kindness seeks to assuage my anguish ! I could Tear yon walls apart, and leave no living thing Within them to bewail their fall ! I'd hurl Destruction on his head of a nature so direful, That all future time shall shudder at the story of My wrongs and my revenge ! My lord. I entreat thy patience ! Oh, patience ! patience ! ay, give me patience, Heaven ! Send me your aid to guide me now ! Preserve my senses, for woes like mine are fearful to Endure ! She is the dearest creature that a Mortal ever worshipped, the goddess of My idolatry ! Her desperate truth may yet do more than these idle Hands can hope to achieve and avenge her Yet unspotted honor, and I too late to save, May compass nought but the death I promise to our Foe ! Oh ! show me, Pietro, show me quickly some Means to reach the goal I seek, the vengeance I desire ; and ask the greatest boon that friendship Ever gave — it shall be thine. Dost hear me, Pietro ? — Dost understand these pangs that agonise my heart ? — These tortures that distraction give to love like mine ? — That know no hope, no relief, but in vengeance, Unalloyed and sudden ? My lord, the vengeance that thou seekest shall be Thine. Doubt it not, for all the powers of goodness do Espouse thy cause and battle on thy side. Grant it so, ye powers that o'ersway the Acts of mortals ! Grant innocence to be triumphant ! Let powerful guilt be levelled in the dust ! Then Earth will know one monster less, and Virtuous love shall vindicate her right ! Honor, Justice, love, and truth, are all arrayed in this Conflict against pride, power, and iniquity ! Sharpen my sword in trie hoTsr of battle, and nerve This arm to val'rous deeds, which shall with a fatal Haste hurl fierce destruction on Arana's head! My lord, time flies, and I must leave this Place, and seek my post in yonder castle, ere Knowledge of my absence shall arouse suspicion, And the gloomy tyrant call me to answer, and So, perchance, "destroy the hope I've raised within your Heart. I thank thee ; farewell ! be true. And I'll reward thy faith. Thanks, my lord ; farewell. [Exit Caelo, b. Let us now prepare the vassals for the struggle 2$ MEDORA. Of to-morrow. Marco tells me that though death has thinned Their numbers in the fight, still then* spirits are unsub- dued. Orsini. Spartan heroes ; for if bravery indomitable Can give that title to a soldier, it is yours. I know your Ardor, and revere yom- zeal. "When in the dungeon Of Arana, pining, how well I know that they did battle for my Liberty ; the freedom of a chief whom direst fortune Could not lessen in their care And love. The leader who has a place in the Hearts of his soldiers, Pietro, is the owner of the strength With which they shower their blows upon the foe. [Exeunt l. SCENE II. — The Camp of Orsini — Tents in the Distance — Sol" diers Reclining on the Ground — Sentinels on Guard — Watch Feres, &c. Marco. Pietro. Marco. Enter Marco and Pietro, l. When the vesper bell tolls, sayest thou, Pietro ? Is that the Hour for the assault ? It is. How fares my lord, my noble foster-brother ; is He well ? Does hope keep lively in his breast, or has Dull despair taken possession of those faculties his Friends adrnire ? Pietro. No, not despair ; but still, a nameless dread doth seem To keep him frein those cheerful thoughts methinks a soldier Should possess upon the eve of strife. Should aught befal the Noble lady of his love, victory were fruitless to his arms. All his thoughts, and all his daring in the assault, will Be Medora's. Thyself, Marco, must keep the guidance Of our men, nor let one thought from that great end Escape thee. Thy judgment and collectedness are Proof against excitement's errors ; and where the Heart is calm the brain is ever cool. Marco. I'll do my best, Pietro, the greatest chief could d; No more ; and more I'd do than for myself I'd strive To accomplish. Be this sufficient for my conscience And for thy anxiety. Pietro. Enough, my friend, I know thee well, and do not Doubt thv valor or thy zeal. MEDORA Marco. So let this night be pix> Whex I Our chieftain wander forth ; for - I Tent it was empty. nd doubtless seeks reb Thin ting over his woes. How long this day wii; along Ere the welcome moments come when we shall battle much thinned with th Fierce ast na. rt still their - rare, and I The weakness of their limbs. I warrant me their bi wii'. in the work I know Xo dread n by Sur. Eailbeiui ..quer. PiebrOk I . - :>nest Man must his J . Methinks : i -. y pang our Loi ind within his dungeon, a gaping :nd will let m iUuniin-r - . No fault of mine or thine, Pietro, if it be not as Tli Still, we must not let an over confidence Dec The very end we 1 Th be our guiding stars, and with tk e kand Of heaven at our side. Ai numbered. Wh I rain. W And every serf thai ur eonqu : An.. - rhen. Pie*. That's a virtue never kno^vn unto our foe. or Ever offered to his enemi rae : but an iood our chieftain sk izd spirit. . triumph emu! ie th generous vj "We anro - - me h lid -. And weD dd Be the 1 - - - ro -. true, Pietro ; . m friend.- lesta 30 MEDORA. Our ears have drank their dying groans, we lose all Sense of mercy to the foe who caused the suffering. Pietro. Well, success unto our cause, for ours is the "Warfare of the oppressed. We fight for female Loveliness and purity, enthralled within a tyrant's power. Marco. But these to-morrow's midnight shall set free. Pietro. I hope and trust in the goodness of cm- cause. [Enter Oesini, l. But see, Orsini comes. Why dost thou ponder all Alone, and dost not cheer thy followers for the Coming fight, my lord ? Dost dread the sequence On't ? or dost thou plot some easy plan of conquest Yet to be divulged ? Speak, sir, and cheer your vassals ? Orsini. Oh, friends! there is a fearful weight oppresses Me ! A sad foreboding. I never yet did shun the Danger that I urged upon my soldiers, nor do I now. I fear that all our efforts may be too late, and That very thought unmans my nature. I know if Such dread surmises should prove true, 'twould Paralyze my arms and render feeble as an Infant's all the strength I now can boast, and Life itself would be a bitter boon. No, my friends, Orsini has but one desire, one wish — to tear my Dear bethrothed love from yon tyrant's power ! How vainly I repent the freedom I have gained, and Wish again I pined in chains within the dungeon that My foe assigned to my unwholsome captivity. There is no Despair like that we feel for those whom we adore ; and Nothing doth unnerve the strength of manhood and Stay the deeds his valor ponders on, as that sudden Chilling of the heart that pales the cheek and Arrest, the intended stroke, when fear that What we strike to rescue is no more, benumbs the arm. Marco. Cheer up, Sir! Your soldiers must not see this. You must bear a cheerful countenance before them. 'Tis Needed much in times like these. Let no distress appear Upon thy brow nor cloud thine eye. Orsini. Well, well. I trill be cheerful. I will forget the Cause that makes me thus. Forget ! I cannot ! As easy Could the saddest victim of another's malice forget All injuries, and forgive, although that victim Had to pardon the foul destroyer of all his race ! I know this melancholy preys upon my heart. I cannot Divine the cause of all the sadness and this brooding. I mourn beneath an undefined load Of grief. All nature is a blank of misery to My eye. My brain seems turning with the long Suspense, and direst thoughts do course athwart MEDORA. 31 My mind. I fear, yet know not what I fear. I tremble at a shadow. A passing pang within My heart at times, is like a death knell In mine ear ! What calmness or what hope Can lighten my despair, when all I Desire to see secnre from distrust or danger, Tempestuous fears and griefs are bowed beneath A reckless libertine's fell regard, trembling at His frown, and praying vainly for one glimpse of Mercy that his nature knows not nor can know. Marco. My lord, these dreads and doubts are Worse than vain, they are fatal to your cause. Away With gloomy despair ! True hope can never know Fatigue. It mounts aloft defiant of restraint, and Victory is his whose daring foot would climb the Highest pinnacle. No feebleness must find a place Within ranks ! No faintheartedness prevent the Proud consummation of thy dearest wishes. We must Achieve a conquest and destroy the foe, regardless Of all cost and let my lord but clear his brow, and Not a doubt remains within my soul, but that Arana's doomed. So cheer thee, lord. Orsini. Thy words would bring a comfort to my woe, if Eloquence of mortal man could accomplish it, but Marco, say no more ! I will not trouble thee with further Doubts. I will not recompense thy generous self-denial And thy valor for my cause, by such ingratitude. I No more deplore a fate I know not nor can plainly Tell, but will drive it hence from my breast. Again I'll lead my soldiers to the fight — and my willing Sword shall leap, all joyous, from my scabbard And defy the proud, exulting foe. Come on, my Friends, let's cheerily wait the vesper bell, and May its welcome sound awaken joy and Triumph to our arms, and destruction to the enemy. [Turning and addressing the soldiers as they rise in groups'] My gallant followers, who long have rushed where Honor and your chieftain led, to-night shall lead you To another conquest. Bright be your swords ! avenging be Their blows ! Let your spirits be exalted with the strife. Your Limbs be nerved with a fiery vigor, no hostile power can Stay. A righteous cause is that you fight— for a Tyrant and a traitor to honor and knighthood Is the foe, whom you confront. Then let his minions Know your courage, and bleed upon your blades of shining steel. AIL They shall— they shall ! 32 MEDORA. Orsini. Kemember your wives and sisters, and your Promised brides. Ye fight for them ! Kemember Outraged innocence, helpless maidenhood, feeble And enthralled. Kemember tyranny, and Freedom ! Arana's villany and Orsini' s vengeance. The victim turned avenger ! forget not these, and when Ye strike, strike home, and be your temples crowned With laurels an eternity cannot wither ! All. Orsini \ Orsini ! Enter two Knights. 1st Knight. My Lord ! Orsini. Orsini. Speak, thy will with me ? 1st Knight. A force of the beleaguered foe has sallied From the castle, and now approach the pass leading to Our encampment ; to surprise us do they come with secret Strength and silent tread ; an hour's march will bring them here. Omni. Then we must meet them, Marco ! Marco. My lord ! Orsini. Prepare for battle, everv man that fights Beneath mv banners. We'll meet the audacious foe, who Dares to hope he'll steal upon a slumbering host. By Heavens, the thought of clashing arms inspires me with a cheerful Spirit, and lends a fire unto my veins ! Go, learn if their Foremost ranks be now in view from yonder nearest Height. [Exit 2d Knight.] Come, my valiant vassals ; Prepare the thirsty steel, and dim its lustre in the Flowing veins of foemen ; this day's combat will Begin ere your leader deemed. He scarce had hoped For such a joyous chance. Claim victory as your Right. Clutch it and 'tis yours; no delay when your ear Shall catch the cry that commands ye make the War your own. One gallant charge ? swoop from these Heights like eagles on their prey ! Enter 2d Knight. 2d Knight. [In haste.] My lord, the foe has Gained the pass ; let the men march forward And meet them ere they issue thence, and ere their Senses can perceive the danger, hurl destruction on Their heads ! MEDORA. 33 Marco. My lord, these words are pood ; by a sudden Stroke we will o'erwhelm them. Now lets meet our — Orsini. Then forward, friends ! Hush upon them, and Destroy ! like bloodhounds, fresh from the leash, Spring forward now ! [Exit Orsini, r. SCENE III.— A Mountain Pass. Enter Abana's Forces with Banners, Spears, and Stephano leading them, followed by two Officers, l. u. e. Stephano. Halt ! [Forces halt.] Where are our scouts ? 1st Off. Not yet returned, sir. Stephano. Strange ! this augurs ill, and sounds mnch Like an ambush ; they should be here ere this, and Bring us word of the exact force of the enemy, where Lies their strength, and the surest point of assault, Whence our men can rush upon and overwhelm Them ! 2d Off. This silence, too, amid these hills is ominous of Some surprise intended by the foe. This — [Loud shouts without of Orsini ! Orsini ! Stephano. What treachery is this ? 1st Off. The foe ! They come ! they come ! Enter forces of Orsini, r & e., hemming in those of Abana. Musvg, shouts. Enter Orsini. He rushes upon Ste- phano, they fight. Genera 1 metee, Orsini's forces victo- E N D OF ACT IV 34 MEDORA. ACT V. SCENE I.— A Room in the Castle of Abana. Mr ja discovered kneeling at a shrine, c. Medora. [Rising and coming down the stage.~\ Thrice hath Night's black mantle o'ershadowed the earth since Orsini 'scap'd these walls ; and few and fearful Have been rny hours of repose since then ; Arana seeks me ever and anon, and urges The suit I loathe. Sure, the time draws Near when I may hope for freedom from this Thraldom, this killing torture of the soul ; Every sound that comes up to these casements Excites my heart to frenzy ; oh, had I not Fainted in the stifling smoke that filled Yon banquet hall, I had, perchance, been free Ere this, and happy in the arms of him My soul adores. [Paces the apartment.} Oh! The agony of this suspense ! Heaven ! when shall I find repose and peace ? Enter Carlo, l. Well, speak: say what comfort has thy Tongue to utter. Speak some words of Solace, and I'll kneel to thee and bless Thee!' Lady, to-night, when the bell shall toll the Vesper hour, I have agreed to lead the Lord Orsini and his vassals through a secret passage Known but to a few within these walls, where And when they can possess them of the castle's Strength, and crush the spoiler in the Stronghold of his pride ; Eternal powers be praised ! Lady, be cautious and prepared. Fear me not ; I have suffered deeply, But am happy now. Thy words are Heaven's balm of Comfort to this aching breast. My friend ! My friend ! Receive a captive's thanks. . [Grosses, e. Lady, I dare not linger; I must hence Again. One word, one look, incautious said or given, Would ruin all and seal thy fate; farewell, Be cautious and be ready. [Exit, l. Medora. Oh, bliss! oh, rapture! welcome, eve, welcome The hour of deliverance and joy ! Oh, Orsini ! prosper him Carlo. Medora. Carlo. Medora. Carlo. MEDORA. 35 All powers that pity feeble woman, all powers that Aid distress and frown upon oppression ; may no Mischance await him in the hour of strife ; no evil Hand forbid his triumph ; shield him in danger ; Preserve him for this beating heart to bless; [J'rosses, b. Ha ! what sounds are those ? the trampling of feet Within the court— the sound of many voices In confusion. What means these cries ? {Shouts without. Re-enter Carlo, l. Carlo. Lady, a sallying party of Arana's vassals This morning stole upon Orsini in his Camp, headed by Stephano, but were Driven, with fearful slaughter and utterly routed, back. Arana, wild with fury, like some savage Beast, doth rave with fiercest oaths on all, And even now gave utterance to thy name. Medora. My name ? What mean'st thou ? Has Some new species of torture entered his corrupted Heart? Carlo. I know not, but came to warn thee and Pray thee to be calm and watchful for The promised hour. Medora. I understand thee, and thank thee, too. Be still, my heart. Carlo. I go, lady; again, farewell. [Exit, l. Medora. Farewell, thou faithful servitor, farewell, And mayst thou know, if ever fearful trials should Beset thy path, a heart as true as thine to feel For thee and aid thee in thy trouble. Arana's vanquished host now throng the court and Alley of this castle, and his fierce spirit chafes at Then- repulse. All the savageiy of his nature Will be roused within him, all the fury of the Wolf will glare within his eye. What if Orsini's valor fail him in the moment of His need— if chance of battle should give the Triumph to Arana's arms. Oh, that's a Maddening thought, I will not cherish it an instant. Hence, black delusions ! ye cheat not this heart Of one gleam of joy. I feel within me Orsini's own Victorious soul. I do not doubt nor fear nor— Enter Aeana, l. \rana. Madam, I seek your presence to inform You that the time expires to-night I've given thee. Choose thy fate. 36 MEDORA Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. Medora. Arana. 'Tis well. Hast thou decided, then ? I'll tell thee hereafter when the time thou Hast allotted me, expires. [Crosses, l. [Aside] Curses on her pride. Medora, may I not hope thou wilt be merciful ? Why wilt thou thus be always harsh and cruel to a Love, as tender as his who has forsaken thee ? If thou wilt not curb thy tongue of insults, wanton As profane, I implore thee leave me to myself. [ Grosses, r. Vain and foolish woman — nay pardon me, I Meant not that, I did not intend insult, nor Do I feel aught but passion and adoration For thy charms. Not in the wide circumference of the Globe breathes there the being I adore like thee. Heaven Itself. Oh, cease this idle talk, my lord; thou knowest 'Tis vain and hollow as the winds that murmur O'er some barren waste. I cannot prize a heart I do not covet ; nor can I, with hideous guile, pretend To offer hope of love, when all that I can give — Is hatred ! Perdition ! Why. fool-like, Do I suffer this, and let thee taunt me Thus ? Knowest thou not I have the power to bend That haughty spirit? Hast thou forgotten in whose Power thou art ? In whose presence thou art standing, And whose fury thou defiest ? Kemember, I Hold thy liberty, thy life within my hand, and Could hide thee from the eye of mortal man until The final hour. Provoke me not; too much Of that haughty spirit thou dost show for Policy, fair lady. [ ( rosses, R. But not for truth and love. And well that truth and love of thine Have been repaid. He deserted thee, as thou see'st, and as Well thou knowest he has not deserted me. He knows not the baseness of so mean a soul. He Is peer mito ten thousand such as thee ! I care Not for thy fronws, nor for thy curses ; thy threats I fear not. I despise thy nature. Thy treacherous Soul can nothing plot I dread to meet. Go, Lord it o'er thy vassals and thy trembling slaves, But seek not to subdue or terrify the generous Heart of woman, when she loves. [Grosses, r. By heaven, this gallant show befits th j e Well, and despite this bravery, thou shalt yet .MEDORA. 37 Be his thou scoruest. I swear it by all the Powers of darkness. [Advances as though to seize her. Medora. [a] Beware! [Drawing dagger and placing the point to her breast. Or this steel shall be my savior. Approach one step, and the next thou Takest will be toward my bleeding corse. My Blood be on thy head. Arana. Hold ! hold thy desperate hand ! I do relent, And will seek some fitter time to urge my suit. [Exit, l. Medora. Oh, mercy! mercy! [Dropping her dagger-hand, and bury- ing her face between her knees and sinking to the ground. Oh, my trembling heart support me ! Do not Forsake me now. Oh ! grant me strength, ye Powers that shelter the distressed, to live throughout The fearful ordeal to which I'm doomed. Soften the villain's breast and teach it pity. [Bises. Oh, for some way to escape this horror ; the Vesper hour will never come ; I will not longer Tarry here ; I cannot, dare not linger here. Protect me, Heaven; guide me on the path I tremble, pursue. Oh, for the fresh air of mountain freedom, the sylvan Fruit of the verdant vale where birds and fruits and Flowers and joy and peace shall be our own again. One desperate effort; but if I fail— away despair! I will not doubt the goodness of all-seeing Heaven. Now for escape, now— [Exit through door in fiat, e. SCENE H. —A Brilliant Apartment in the Castle. Arana discovered pacing the room in great agitation, and Stefhano standing, r. Arana. Fled ! —escaped me ! curses on the slaves ! Treachery and an evil fate beset me on all sides. Now, as I held joy to my lips, 'tis snatched from Me, and I'm laughed to scorn, despised, derided and Defied ; but all who aided her in flight shall Die in tortures no demons can conceive. Who were —hast discovered yet the minions That assisted her ? Hast thou, too, been careless in the Search ? Stephano. All has been done, my lord ; no pains been spared To find the fugitive or aiders in her flight ; scouts Have left the castle, and between these walls and Orsini's camp, no spot is left unsearched. 38 MEDORA. Arana. Yet all in vain ? — why tell me this ? — renew The search ! leave naught untried ! penetrate The camp itself! she must be found! and when Found— what then ? By all the fiends, if she Again escape me. I forgive all ills that e'er before Befell my race : Stephano ! Stephano. Your will, my lord ? Arana, My will?— fool! my will ? 'tis this : To hold Medora in my grasp, and defy all Earth and earthly powers and Heaven itself To rescue her ! dost hear me, man ? I tell thee, Thou must bring her here ! Stephano. It shall be tried sir, Arana. Tried ! It shall be done, or on thy Own head shall fall the doom I never yet Pronounced in vain. Bring her before me, and One half my wealth, one half my power are thine. Fail to do so, and a thousand tortures shall Keward thy lack of zeal, begone ! I Speak not twice ! I am resolved. Stephana. My lord, I go to execute your will. {Exit, k. Arana, Oh place her in my power again, saints or fiends, Bring her before me and I'll clip her wings for All future flights. Can she have reached Orsini ? and does she laugh My idle rage to scorn ? Oh, idiot, idiot, that I was To hold them in my power and let them fly Me thus ! Enter Stephano, k. Stephano. I give you joy, my lord. Arana. How? — what? Stephano. The lady — Arana. Speak, what of her, Stephano? Stephano. Has been recaptured and is now Within these walls. Arana. Recaptured, sayest thou ? in my power Again? Bring her before me; now revenge ! [Exit Stephano, e. Now joy, I'm all your own, Ha ! ha ! By Heavens, this exulting fire that courses Through my veins is the delirious frenzy of A maniac's rapture. I have her once again, Once and forever. No pause, no hesitation, No mercy now ; she shall be mine in spite Of virgin's fears and tears and curses. She shall be mine ! M E D O R A . For aU the scorn I have endured at her Hands, all the defiance of her lips and Eves, I shall be amply repaid. Then let Orsini tremble ; he may despise my Coward vassals. I conquer him m love ; the Victory is mine ! Oh ! fates that rule my destiny, I thank your guidance and your benevolence. The maid— the haughty maid, that spurned my Heart— shall be my slave. Enter Medoea, Stephano, and four Knights, b., 12. Welcome again fair maid. Thy flight to reach Thy flying lover, cruel fate decreed should be In vain. Thou art doomed again by adverse fortunes, Savage blasts, to find a haven in these towers. I grieve to tell this, but truth, howe'er unwelcome To the ear, ought not to be withheld. Again I bid thee Welcome, lady. Medora Thy words of taunt and insult have No effect upon this heart of mine. The depths of its O'erbearing woe renders me all regardless of the utterance Of thy lips. Aram. Retire. [JW aJl but Abana and Medoba, b. Now, lady, we're alone. Let hopes thy bosom Cherish'd, leave thee now ; no power that man Can wield can save thee from my will. Again I offer thee my hand in bonds of wedlock. Again I offer thee the title of Arana's bride, the lady of These wide domains— no answer ? Dost thou spurn This offer, or accept it ? No trifling now can serve thy Turn ! A firm resolve is centered in my soul to call Thee mine, by priesthood's aid, if thou consent'st To be a willing bride ; if not, without it, then ! Medora. In calm disdain and virtuous pride I scorn Thee, slave ! Thou niay'st lord it o'er thy vassals ; Their suppliant knees may do thee homage, their Pliant tongues, with hirelings huzzas laud Thee and thy felon deeds ! but from Medora's Lips no word of meek submission comes to ears of Thine : and for my soul, contempt is all the Feeling it conceives for thee. A traitor to honor Thou stand'st, and infamy shall brand Thy memory unto all coming time. May no comfort Bless thee on thy dying day! alone mayst thou Linger out a weary life of shame, Despised by the meanest of mankind, And scorn and hatred contemn thy name Forever. [Crosses,-*. 40 MEDORA. Aram. Enough ! Beware ! Thou art mine despite Thy virtuous indignation. Eage fires my Heart, and revenge claims thee for my Victim. [Shouts heard without. Ha ! What means those shouts ? Enter Stephano, l. Stephano. My lord, the castle is attacked. These halls already swarm with thy foes. Arana, Confusion ! Whence comes this ? What New plot of treason's this ? Enter a Knight, e., with a crimson scarf in his hand, My lord, Orsini's slain ! He led Th' assault and fell pierced with wounds. Here is the scarf he always wore in battle — [Gives it to Arana. A thousand thanks for news like this. [Exit Knight and Stephano. Now then my triumph comes at last. Ho, there ! Without there ! Keep back the slaves until Medora, thou art mine ! I have thee now ! Expect no relenting mercy ! Thou'rt mine ! Thou'rt mine ! Stand back ! Eternal Powers receive me now ! [As Arana approaches her site Draws her dagger and stabs herself.] Ah, Monster ! Have I baffled thee ?— and Didst thou think a woman's hand coild Not preserve her honor!— Oh, God ! I [Falls. Shouts icilhout. Enter Orsini and faces e. Abana stands aghast.] Ho, villain ! Perish ! [Stabs Arana who falls and dies. What's this V— Oh, my Medora ! [Seeing Medoka, rashes to her and supports her.'] Thou art not slain ! I thought thee Dead and killed myself, e'er yon Slave should triumph, love, Thy scarf was brought as proof of thy fall. Oh, vile deceit ! Oh, devilish cunning ! Farewell, my love, this pang destroys All life. My spirit flutters to depart ! Oh, God! Orsini, 1 Farewell!— [Dies. Knight. Arana. Medora, Orsini. Medora Orsini. Medora, THE END. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 016 102 926 9