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Exchange that name, for 'tis the worthiest still.
A traitor!—I retrace in thought the time,
When for your cause I fought; 'tis all one path
Strew'd o'er with flowers. Point out the day on which
A traitor's deeds were mine; the day which pass'd
Unmark'd by thanks, and praise, and promises
Of high reward! What more? Behold me here!
And when I came to seeming honour call'd.
When in my heart most deeply spoke the voice
Of love, and grateful zeal, and trusting faith—
Of trusting faith! oh! no.—Doth he who comes
Th' invited guest of friendship, dream of faith?
I came to be ensnar'd! Well! it is done,
And be it so! but since deceitful hate
Hath thrown at length her smiling mask aside,
Praise be to heaven! an open field at least
Is spread before us. Now 'tis yours to speak,
Mine to defend my cause; declare ye then
My treasons!

Doge. By the secret college soon
All shall be told thee.

Car. I appeal not there.
What I have done for you, hath all been done
In the bright noon-day, and its tale shall not
Be told in darkness. Of a warrior's deeds
Warriors alone should judge; and such I chuse
To be mine arbiters; my proud defence
Shall not be made in secret. All shall hear.

Doge. The time for choice is past.

Car. What! is there force
Employ'd against me?—Guards! (raising his voice. )

Doge. They are not nigh.
Soldiers! (enter armed men.)
Thy guards are these.

Car. I am betray'd!

Doge. 'Twas then a thought of wisdom to disperse
Thy followers. Well and justly was it deem'd
That the hold traitor, in his plots surpris'd,
Might prove a rebel too.

Car. E'en as ye list,
Now be it yours to charge me.

Doge. Bear him hence,
Before the secret college.

Car. Hear me yet
One moment first. That ye have doom'd my death
I well perceive; but with that death ye doom