More than the eagle may a dove, and yet
It is my country. Danger in its bounds
Weighs more than foreign safety. But why speak
Of what exists not?

I:2:23 COUN.
And I hope may never!

I:2:24 ALAR.
And if it come, what then? This chance shall find me
Not unprepared.

I:2:25 COUN.
But why should there be danger?
And why should'st thou, the foremost prince of Spain,
Fear or make foes? Thou standest in no light
Would fall on other shoulders; thou hast no height
To climb, and nought to gain. Thou art complete;
The King alone above thee, and thy friend.

I:2:26 ALAR.
So I would deem. I did not speak of fear.

I:2:27 COUN.
Of danger?

I:2:28 ALAR.
That's delight, when it may lead
To mighty ends. Ah, Florimonde! thou art too pure;
Unsoiled in the rough and miry paths