O ye successive terms of gloomy quiet!
Over my mind ye pass, like rolling waves
Of dense oppression; whilst deep underneath
Lye all its noble powers and faculties
O'erwhelm'd. If such dark shades must henceforth cross
My checker'd life with still returning horrours,
O let me rest in the foul reptile's hole,
And take from me the being of a man!
Qu. Too much thou givest way to racking thought:
Take this; it is a draught by cunning skill
Compounded curiously, and by strong charms
With secret virtue fill'd; it soothes the mind,
And gives the body rest. (offering him a cup.)
Ethw. Say'st thou? then in good sooth I've need of it,
I thank thee too; thou art a careful wife.
(takes the cup, and, as he is about to put it to his lips, stops short and looks suspiciously at her.)
Taste it thyself: dost thou not take my meaning?
Do thou first drink of it.
Qu. I am in health, my Lord, and need it not.
Ethw. By the dread powers of darkness thou shalt drink it!
Ay, to the very dregs!
Qu. What, would you cast on me such vile suspicions,
And treat a royal princess like your slave?
