The Cid by Pierre Corneille
page 6 of 77 (07%)
page 6 of 77 (07%)
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Scene II.--The INFANTA, LEONORA, and a PAGE.
_Infanta (to Page_). Page, go, tell Chimène from me, that to-day she is rather long in coming to see me, and that my friendship complains of her tardiness. [_Exit Page._] _Leonora._ Dear lady, each day the same desire urges you, and at your interview with her, I see you every day ask her how her love proceeds. _Infanta._ It is not without reason. I have almost compelled her to receive the arrows with which her soul is wounded. She loves Rodrigo, and she holds him from my hand; and by means of me Don Rodrigo has conquered her disdain. Thus, having forged the chains of these lovers, I ought to take an interest in seeing their troubles at an end. _Leonora._ Dear lady, however, amidst their good fortune you exhibit a grief which proceeds to excess. Does this love, which fills them both with gladness, produce in this noble heart [of yours] profound sadness? And does this great interest which you take in them render you unhappy, whilst they are happy? But I proceed too far, and become indiscreet. _Infanta._ My sadness redoubles in keeping the secret. Listen, listen at length, how I have struggled; listen what assaults my constancy [_lit._ virtue or valor] yet braves. Love is a tyrant which spares no one. This young cavalier, this lover which I give [her]--I love him. _Leonora._ You love him! _Infanta._ Place your hand upon my heart, and feel [_lit._ see] how it |
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