several alterations rendered necessary by change of metre, been treated
by Molière in his _Amphitryon_, Act ii., Sc. 6, (see Vol. II.).]

GARC. Well, I cannot deny that I am guilty: but I beg pardon of your
heavenly charms, I beg it for the sake of the most ardent love that two
beautiful eyes ever kindled in a human soul. But if your wrath cannot be
appeased; if my crime be beyond forgiveness; if you have no regard for
the love that caused it, nor for my heart-felt repentance, then one
propitious blow shall end my life, and free me from these unbearable
torments. No, think not that having displeased you, I can live for one
moment under your wrath. Even whilst we are speaking, my heart sinks
under gnawing remorse; were a thousand vultures cruelly to wound it,
they could not inflict greater pangs. Tell me, madam, if I may hope for
pardon; if not, then this sword shall instantly, in your sight, by a
well-directed thrust, pierce the heart of a miserable wretch; that
heart, that irresolute heart, whose weakness has so deeply offended your
excessive kindness, too happy if in death this just doom efface from
your memory all remembrance of its crime, and cause you to think of my
affection without dislike. This is the only favour my love begs of you.

ELV. Oh! too cruel Prince!

GARC. Speak, Madam.

ELV. Must I still preserve some kind feelings for you, and suffer myself
to be affronted by so many indignities?

GARC. A heart that is in love can never offend, and finds excuses for
whatever love may do.