w than on a storm; 360
And when we think we lead, we are most led,[57]
And still towards Death, a thing which comes as much
Without our act or choice as birth, so that
Methinks we must have sinned in some old world,
And _this_ is Hell: the best is, that it is not
Eternal.

_Mar._ These are things we cannot judge
On earth.

_Doge_. And how then shall we judge each other,
Who are all earth, and I, who am called upon
To judge my son? I have administered
My country faithfully--victoriously-- 370
I dare them to the proof, the _chart_ of what
She was and is: my reign has doubled realms;
And, in reward, the gratitude of Venice
Has left, or is about to leave, _me_ single.

_Mar._ And Foscari? I do not think of such things,
So I be left with him.

_Doge_. You shall be so;
Thus much they cannot well deny.

_Mar._ And if
They should, I will fly with him.

_Doge_. That can ne'er be.
And whither would you fly?

_Mar._ I know not, reck not--
To Syria, Egypt, to the Ottoman-- 380
Any where, where we might respire unfettered,
And live nor girt by spies, nor liable
To edicts of inquisitors of state.

_Doge_. What, wouldst thou have a renegade for husband,
And turn him into traitor?

_Mar._ He is none!
The Country is the traitress, which thrusts forth
Her best and bravest from her. Tyranny
Is far the worst of treasons. Dost thou deem
None rebels except subjects? The Prince who
Neglects or violates his trust is more 390
A brigand than the robber-chief.

_Doge_. I cannot
Charge me with such a breach of faith.

_Mar_ No; thou
Observ'st, obey'st such laws as make old Draco's
A code of mercy by comparison.

_Doge_. I found the law; I did not make it. Were I
A subject, still I might find parts and portions
Fit for amendment; but as Prince, I never
Would change, for the sake of my house, the charter
Left by our fathers.

_Mar._ Did they make it for
The ruin of their children?

_Doge_. Under such laws, Venice