Diego monologue (Act 2) — Ariadne in Mantua: A Romance in Five Acts

To God! To God! These are the icy generalities we strike upon under all pious warmth. No, gracious Madam, I will not speak to God; for God knows it already, and, knowing, looks on indifferent. I will speak to you. Not because you are kind and pitiful; for you will cease to be so. Not because you will understand; for you never will. I will speak to you because, although you are a saint, you are _his_ mother, have kept somewhat of his eyes and mien; because it will hurt you if I speak, as I would it might hurt _him_. I am a woman, Madam; a harlot; and I was the Duke your son's mistress while among the Infidels.