And, if he loves you, yours is none at all.
But, though his ruin be as sure as fate,
Your proof of love to me would come too late.
This trial I in kindness would allow;
'Tis easy; if you love me, show it now.

_Lyndar._ It is because I love you, I refuse;
For all the world my conduct would accuse,
If I should go with him I love away;
And, therefore, in strict virtue, I will stay.

_Abdelm._ You would in vain dissemble love to me;
Through that thin veil your artifice I see.
You would expect the event, and then declare;
But do not, do not drive me to despair:
For, if you now refuse with me to fly,
Rather than love you after this, I'll die;
And, therefore, weigh it well before you speak;
My king is safe, his force within not weak.

_Lyndar._ The counsel, you have given me, may be wise;
But, since the affair is great, I will advise.

_Abdelm._ Then that delay I for denial take. [_Is going._

_Lyndar._ Stay; you too swift an exposition make.
If I should go, since Zulema will stay,
I should my brother to the king betray.

_Abdelm._ There is no fear; but, if there were, I see