Would sacrifice her love, and break her vow,
Not out of love, but interest, acts alone,
And would, even in my arms, lie thinking of a throne.

_Zul._ Add to the rest, this one reflection more:
When she is married, and you still adore,
Think then,--and think what comfort it will bring,--
She had been mine,
Had I but only dared to be a king!

_Abdal._ I hope you only would my honour try;
I'm loth to think you virtue's enemy.

_Zul._ If, when a crown and mistress are in place,
Virtue intrudes, with her lean holy face,
Virtue's then mine, and not I virtue's foe.
Why does she come where she has nought to do?
Let her with anchorites, not with lovers, lie;
Statesmen and they keep better company.

_Abdal._ Reason was given to curb our head-strong will.

_Zul._ Reason but shews a weak physician's skill;
Gives nothing, while the raging fit does last,
But stays to cure it, when the worst is past.
Reason's a staff for age, when nature's gone;
But youth is strong enough to walk alone,

_Abdal._ In cursed ambition I no rest should find,
But must for ever lose my peace of mind.