Poems, translated and original

_A corridor leading from the prisons._

_Enter_ FOSCARINI, _fettered and guarded_--_the_ DOGE, _and_ BELTRAMO.

Foscarini. _To_ BELTRAMO.] If it may be, Loose me these fetters;--for the last time here I fain would pass unchained.

BELTRAMO.

I should be forced To wear them.

Foscarini. Pardon! I forgot that here Pity was death!

Doge. I grieve to see you thus!

Foscarini. Why? my arrest, my punishment, methinks, Should mark me out for envy--since the bolt Of vengeance from the state in this resembles Heaven’s winged lightnings--that it ever strikes The proudest head!

Doge. Your judges would be gentle. Why not reveal your secret--and afford Room for their mercy?

Foscarini. No! I scorn their mercy!

Doge. A word may save your life----

Foscarini. And blast that life With infamy eternal!

Doge. Then the secret Involves deep guilt?

Foscarini. It doth not. Urge no more-- My doom is fixed--and fixed is my resolve.

Doge. Have you considered it--the deep disgrace Your fate will stamp on all you love?

Foscarini. Alas! There is the sting! ’tis not enough in darkness To doom the offender, and to take from him Life with its joys and hopes--but they pursue Beyond the grave, and load the senseless dust With calumny! To what hath not risen This monstrous power? Oh! well indeed had’st thou Thy cradle ’midst the clay of thy lagunes, Base city, which hast borne it!

_Enter_ MEMMO.

MEMMO (_to_ DOGE.)

Sir--the council Await your attendance. [_Exeunt._