Bethas monologue (Act 2) — The Prince of Parthia: A Tragedy

Still let me gaze, still let me gaze upon thee, Let me strain ev'ry nerve with ravishment, And all my life be center'd in my vision. To see thee thus, to hear thy angel voice, It is, indeed, a luxury of pleasure!-- Speak, speak again, for oh! 'tis heav'n to hear thee! Celestial sweetness dwells on ev'ry accent;-- Lull me to rest, and sooth my raging joy. Joy which distracts me with unruly transports. Now, by thy dear departed Mother's shade, Thou brightest pattern of all excellence, Thou who in prattling infancy hast blest me, I wou'd not give this one transporting moment, This fullness of delight, for all--but, ah! 'Tis vile, Ambition, Glory, all is vile, To the soft sweets of love and tenderness.