Am I so harsh?

 Adel. Oh no! the kindest, best!

  But, would you save me from the stroke of death,

  If you would not behold your daughter, stretch'd,

  A poor pale corse, and breathless at your feet,

  Oh, step between me and this cruel mandate!

 Countess. But this is strange!—I hear your father's step:

  He must not see you thus: retire this moment.

  I'll come to you anon.

 Adel. Yet, ere I go,

  O make the interest of my heart your own;

  Nor, like a senseless, undiscerning thing,

  Incapable of choice, nor worth the question,

  Suffer this hasty transfer of your child:

[pg 25]

[pg 25]

   Plead for me strongly, kneel, pray, weep for me;

   And angels lend your tongue the power to move him!

 [Exit. 

 Countess. What can this mean, this ecstacy of passion!

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