_Almah._ Conquest attends Almanzor every where;
I am too small a foe for him to fear:
But heroes still must be opposed by some,
Or they would want occasion to o'ercome.

_Almanz._ Madam, I cannot on bare praises live:
Those, who abound in praises, seldom give.

_Almah._ While I to all the world your worth make known,
May heaven reward the pity you have shown!

_Almanz._ My love is languishing, and starved to death;
And would you give me charity--in breath?
Prayers are the alms of churchmen to the poor:
They send's to heaven, but drive us from their door.

_Almah._ Cease, cease a suit
So vain to you, and troublesome to me,
If you will have me think that I am free.
If I am yet a slave, my bonds I'll bear;
But what I cannot grant, I will not hear.

_Almanz._ You will not hear!--You must both hear and grant;
For, madam, there's an impudence in want.

_Almah._ Your way is somewhat strange to ask relief
You ask with threatening, like a begging thief.--
Once more, Almanzor, tell me, am I free?