The Cid by Pierre Corneille
page 21 of 77 (27%)
page 21 of 77 (27%)
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_Don Rodrigo._ Speak without exciting thyself. I am young, it is true;
but in souls nobly born valor does not depend upon age [_lit._ wait for the number of years]. _Count._ To measure thyself with me! Who [_or_, what] has rendered thee so presumptuous--thou, whom men have never seen with a sword [_lit._ arms] in thine hand? _Don Rodrigo._ Men like me do not cause themselves to be known at a second trial, and they wish [to perform] masterly strokes for their first attempt. _Count._ Dost thou know well who I am? _Don Rodrigo._ Yes! Any other man except myself, at the mere mention of thy name, might tremble with terror. The laurels with which I see thine head so covered seem to bear written [upon them] the prediction of my fall. I attack, like a rash man, an arm always victorious; but by courage I shall overcome you [_lit._ I shall have too much strength in possessing sufficient courage]. To him who avenges his father nothing is impossible. Thine arm is unconquered, but not invincible. _Count._ This noble courage which appears in the language you hold has shown itself each day by your eyes; and, believing that I saw in you the honor of Castile, my soul with pleasure was destining for you my daughter. I know thy passion, and I am delighted to see that all its impulses yield to thy duty; that they have not weakened this magnanimous ardor; that thy proud manliness merits my esteem; and that, desiring as a son-in-law an accomplished cavalier, I was not deceived in the choice which I had made. But I feel that for thee my compassion is touched. I |
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