Part 79 (1/2)

DAJA.

Is all you have yours by an equal t.i.tle?

NATHAN.

Nought by a better. What I else enjoy Are Fortune's gifts, or Nature's. This alone-- This treasure do I owe to virtue.

DAJA.

Nathan!

How dearly must I pay for all your goodness!

If goodness practised for an end like yours Deserves the name.

NATHAN.

An end like mine! What mean you?

DAJA.

My conscience----

NATHAN.

Daja, let me tell you first----

DAJA.

I say my conscience----

NATHAN.

Oh, the gorgeous robe That I have bought for you in Babylon!

Costly it is and rare. For Recha's self I have not bought a richer.

DAJA.

What of that?

My conscience can be silent now no more.

NATHAN.

I long to witness your delight, to see The bracelets, earrings, and the golden chain Which I selected at Damascus for you.

DAJA.

'Tis always so, you surfeit me with gifts.

NATHAN.

Accept them freely, as they are bestowed, And silence!

DAJA.