Prec. Yes, that I love thee, as the good love heaven; But not that I am worthy of that heaven. How shall I more deserve it?
Prec. I cannot love thee more; my heart is full.
Vict. Then let it overflow, and I will drink it, As in the summer-time the thirsty sands Drink the swift waters of the Manzanares, And still do thirst for more.
A Watchman (in the street). Ave Maria Purissima! 'T is midnight and serene!
Prec. It is a hateful sound, To scare thee from me!
Vict. As the hunter's horn Doth scare the timid stag, or bark of hounds The moor-fowl from his mate.
Vict. I must away to Alcala to-night. Think of me when I am away.
Prec. Fear not! I have no thoughts that do not think of thee.
Vict. (giving her a ring). And to remind thee of my love, take this; A serpent, emblem of Eternity; A ruby,--say, a drop of my heart's blood.
Prec. It is an ancient saying, that the ruby Brings gladness to the wearer, and preserves The heart pure, and, if laid beneath the pillow, Drives away evil dreams. But then, alas! It was a serpent tempted Eve to sin.
Vict. What convent of barefooted Carmelites Taught thee so much theology?
Prec. (laying her hand upon his mouth). Hush! hush! Good night! and may all holy angels guard thee!
Vict. Good night! good night! Thou art my guardian angel! I have no other saint than thou to pray to!
Prec. Take care, and do not hurt thee. Art thou safe?
Vict. (from the garden). Safe as my love for thee! But art thou safe? Others can climb a balcony by moonlight As well as I. Pray shut thy window close; I am jealous of the perfumed air of night That from this garden climbs to kiss thy lips.
Prec. (throwing down her handkerchief). Thou silly child! Take this to blind thine eyes. It is my benison!
Vict. And brings to me Sweet fragrance from thy lips, as the soft wind Wafts to the out-bound mariner the breath Of the beloved land he leaves behind.
Vict. To-morrow night Shall see me safe returned. Thou art the star To guide me to an anchorage. Good night! My beauteous star! My star of love, good night!
Watchman (at a distance). Ave Maria Purissima!
Scene IV. -- An inn on the road to Alcala. BALTASAR asleep on a bench. Enter CHISPA.
Chispa. And here we are, halfway to Alcala, between cocks and midnight. Body o' me! what an inn this is! The lights out, and the landlord asleep. Hola! ancient Baltasar!