Surpassing nature. When the soul is roused
To desp'rate sacrifice, 'tis ardent passion,
Or high exalted virtue that excites it.
Can loathsome demonry in dauntless bearing
Outdo the motives of the lofty brave?
It cannot be! There is some power in this
Mocking all thought—incomprehensible.
[Remains for a moment silent and thoughtful, while Sylvius enters behind him unperceived.
Will see unreal things; the cheated ear
List to sweet sounds that are not; even the reason
Maintain conclusions wild and inconsistent.
We hear of this:—the weak may be deluded;
But is the learn'd, th' enlighten'd noble Varus
The victim of delusion?—Can it be?
I'll not believe it.
SYLVIUS (advancing to him).
CORDENIUS (starting).
I have seen thy face before; but where?—who art thou?
SYLVIUS.
Who, with Cordenius Maro, at the siege
Of Fort Volundum*[1], mounted first the breach;
- ↑ * A strong fort in Armenia, taken by Corbulo in Nero's reign.
