FELIX.
He can never keep!
For Decius' rage and hatred never sleep:
If for that sect abhorred Severus plead,
He trebles loss--so are we lost indeed!
One only way is ours,--that way I try:
(To Guards)
Bring Polyeucte and if he still defy,
Self-doomed, insensate, this my proffered grace,
He shall the death he wooes forthwith embrace!

ALBIN.
Ah, this is stern!

FELIX.
'Tis stern, 'tis just--as fate;
When justice drags a halting foot, too late,
She is not justice--for the vengeful mob
(Whose hearts for Polyeucte ne'er cease to throb),
Usurps her place, and, spurning curb and rein,
The felon crowns, and all our work is vain.
My sceptre trembles, and all insecure
Totters my crown,--a prey for every boor.
Then, swift, Severus hears the welcome news,
The jaundiced mind of Decius to abuse.
Shall I, the rabble's lord, obey the rabble's will?

ALBIN.
Who ill in all around foresees,--but doubles ill.