Page:Poems upon Several Occasions.djvu/202

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
190
The British Enchanters.

Amad. While Amadis Oriana's Love possest,
Secure of Empire in that beauteous Breast,
Not Jove, the King of Gods, like Amadis was blest.

Ori. While to Oriana Amadis was true,
Nor wand'ring Flames to distant Climates drew,
No Heav'n, but only Love, the pleas'd Oriana knew.

Amad. That Heav'n of Love, alas! is mine no more
Braving those Pow'rs by whom she falsly swore,
She to Constantius wou'd those Charms resign,
If Oaths cou'd bind, that shou'd be only mine.

Ori. With a feign'd Falshood you'd evade your Part
Of Guilt, and tax a tender faithful Heart:
While by such Ways you'd hide a conscious Flame,
The only Virtue you have left, is Shame.

[Turning disdainfully from him.

Amad. But shou'd this injur'd Vassal you reject
Prove true, ah what Return might he expect?

[Approaching tenderly.

Ori. Tho' brave Constantius charms, with ev'ry Art,
That can entice a tender Virgin's Heart,
Whether he shines for Glory or Delight,
To tempt Ambition, or enchant the Sight,
Were Amadis restor'd to my Esteem,
I wou'd reject a Deity for him.

Amad. Tho' false as watry Bubbles blown by Wind,
Fix'd in my Soul, and rooted in my Mind,
I love Oriana, faithless and unkind:

Oh