Part 121 (1/2)

TEMPLAR.

I've nothing against Nathan. I am vexed, But with myself alone.

SALADIN.

Why so?

TEMPLAR.

For dreaming That any Jew can think himself no Jew.

I dreamt this waking.

SALADIN.

Tell me all your dream.

TEMPLAR.

You know that Nathan has a daughter, Sultan!

And what I did for her, I did--because I did it. Far too proud to reap the thanks I had not sown, from day to day I shunned The maiden's sight. Her father was afar.

He comes, he hears, he seeks me, give me thanks; Wishes that she might please me, and he talks Of dawning prospects. Well, I hear it all, I listen to him, go and see the maid-- O! such a maiden, Sultan. But, I blush.

SALADIN.

Why blush? Blush that a Jewish maid should win Your admiration? 'Tis a venial fault.

TEMPLAR.

But oh! that, through her father's sweet discourse, To this impression my o'er-hasty heart Such weak resistance offered! Fool. I leaped A second time into the flame, and then I wooed, and was denied.

SALADIN.

Denied?--denied?

TEMPLAR.

The prudent father does not plainly say No, to my suit--but he must first inquire-- He must reflect. Well, be it so. Had I Not done the same? I looked about, inquired-- Reflected--ere I plunged into the flames Where she was shrieking. Oh, by Heaven! it is A splendid thing to be so circ.u.mspect!

SALADIN.

Nay, but you must concede somewhat to age.

His doubts will pa.s.s away, nor will he wish You to become a Jew.

TEMPLAR.

Who knows?

SALADIN.

Who knows!