Page:Venice preserv'd; or, A plot discover'd. A tragedy. As it is acted at the Duke's theatr. Written by Thomas Otway (IA venicepreservdor00otwa).pdf/75

In the transporting hours of warmest love
When sure you spoke the truth, you've sworn you bless'd it.

Jaff. Twas a rash oath.

Bel. Then why am I not curss'd too?

Jaff. No, Belvidera; by th' eternal truth,
I doat with too much fondness.

Bel. Still so kind?
Still then do you you love me?

Jaff. Nature, in her workings,
Inclines not with more ardour to Creation,
Than I doe now towards thee; man ne'r was bless'd,
Since the first pair first met, as I have been.

Bel. Then sure you will not curse me.

Jaff. No, I'll bless thee.
I came on purpose, Belvidera, to bless thee.
'Tis now, I think, three years w'have liv'd together.

Bel. And may no fatal minute ever part us,
Till, reverend grown, for age and love, we go
Down to one Grave, as our last bed, together,
There sleep in peace till an eternal morning.

[Sighing.Jaff. When will that be?

Bel. I hope long Ages hence.

Jaff. Have I not hitherto (I beg thee tell me
Thy very fears) us'd thee with tender'st love?
Did e'r my Soul rise up in wrath against thee?
Did I e'r frown when Belvidera smil'd,
Or, by the least unfriendly word, betray
A bating passion? have I ever wrong'd thee?

Bel. No.

Jaff. Has my heart, or have my eyes e'r wandred
To any other woman?

Bel. Never, never—I were the worst of false ones should I accuse thee.
I own I've been too happy, bless'd above
My Sexes Charter.

Jaff. Did I not say I came to bless thee?

Bel. Yes.

Jaff. Then hear me, bounteous Heaven,
Pour down your blessings on this beauteous head,
Where everlasting sweets are always springing.
With a continual giving hand, let peace,
Honour and safety always hover round her,

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