180
A sort of semi-glorious human monster.
Here's that which deified him--let it now
Humanise thee; my surly, chiding brother,
Pledge me to the Greek God!

_Sal._ For all thy realms
I would not so blaspheme our country's creed.

_Sar._ That is to say, thou thinkest him a hero,
That he shed blood by oceans; and no God,
Because he turned a fruit to an enchantment,
Which cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires
The young, makes Weariness forget his toil, 190
And Fear her danger; opens a new world
When this, the present, palls. Well, then _I_ pledge thee
And _him_ as a true man, who did his utmost
In good or evil to surprise mankind. [_Drinks_.

_Sal._ Wilt thou resume a revel at this hour?

_Sar._ And if I did, 'twere better than a trophy,
Being bought without a tear. But that is not
My present purpose: since thou wilt not pledge me,
Continue what thou pleasest.
(_To the Cupbearer_.) Boy, retire. [_Exit Cupbearer_.

_Sal._ I would but have recalled thee from thy dream; 200
Better by me awakened than rebellion.

_Sar._ Who should rebel? or why? what cause? pretext?
I am the lawful King, descended from
A race of Kings who knew no predecessors.
What have I done to thee, or to the people,
That thou shouldst rail, or they rise up against me?

_Sal._ Of what thou hast done to me, I speak not.

_Sar._ But
Thou think'st that I have wronged the Queen: is't not so?

_Sal._ _Think!_ Thou hast wronged her!

_Sar._ Patience, Prince, and hear me.
She has all power and splendour of her station, 210
Respect, the tutelage of Assyria's heirs,
The homage and the appanage of sovereignty.
I married her as monarchs wed--for state,
And loved her as most husbands love their wives.
If she or thou supposedst I could link me
Like a Chaldean peasant to his mate,
Ye knew nor me--nor monarchs--nor mankind.

_Sal._ I pray thee, change the theme: my blood disdains
Complaint, and Salemenes' sister seeks not
Reluctant love even from Assyria's lord! 220
Nor would she deign to accept divided passion
With foreign strump