(Enter Albin.)

FELIX.
Albin, is it done?

ALBIN.
It is,--Nearchus' frantic race is run!

FELIX.
And with what eye saw Polyeucte the sight?

ALBIN.
With envious eye,--as one who sees a light
That lures him, moth-like, to devouring flame.
His heart is fixed, his mind is still the same.

PAUL.
'Tis as I said--oh, father, yet once more
If thou hast ever loved me,--I implore!
Let filial duty and obedience plead
For his dear life! To my last prayer give heed!

FELIX.
Too much thou lovest an unworthy lord!

PAUL.
Thou gavest him my hand, 'twas at thy word
I gave both love and duty; what I give
I take not back; oh, Polyeucte must live!
For his dear sake I quenched another flame