Harry monologue — Past Redemption: A Drama in Four Acts

Stay here! No, no, he has given me a chance for freedom. The doors are open: a dash, and I am free. Free for what? To die in the gutter. I could drag myself no farther; and who would look with compassion on such a ragged, bloated wretch as I? No, no: I have sold myself, body and soul, to this accursed life. (_Staggers to bar._) Let me get at the brandy; that, at least, will bring freedom,--freedom from this maddening thirst, these horrible fears that drive me mad. (_Staggers behind bar._) Ah, here, here! (_Seizes decanter._) The balm for bitter memories. Stop, stop! That vision in the night,--Jessie, with her warning finger: and the old melody I loved so well rang in my ears. I vowed I'd drink no more, though I should die of madness. (_Buries his face in his arms upon the bar. Enter_ R., _down steps_, CAPT. BRAGG.)