Part 130 (1/2)

NATHAN.

Cannot work Such evil as to force me to repent.

But are you sure it is a Templar who Urges the Patriarch?

FRIAR.

It is none else; A Templar talked with him just now, and all I hear confirms the rumour.

NATHAN.

But there is Only one Templar in Jerusalem, And him I know. He is a friend of mine, A n.o.ble, open-hearted youth.

FRIAR.

The same.

But what one is at heart, and what one must Appear in active life, are not the same.

NATHAN.

Alas! 'tis true. And so let every one Act as he will, and do his best, or worst.

With your book, brother, I defy them all!

I'm going straightway with it to the Sultan.

FRIAR.

Then G.o.d be with you! Here I take my leave.

NATHAN.

What! without seeing her? But come again, Come soon--come often. If the Patriarch To-day learns nothing. Well! no matter now!

Tell him the whole to-day, or when you will.

FRIAR.

Not I. Farewell! (_Exit_.)

NATHAN.

Do not forget us, brother!

O G.o.d! I could sink down upon my knees, Here on this spot! Behold, the knotted skein Which has so often troubled me, at last Untangles of itself. I feel at ease, Since henceforth nothing in this world remains That I need hide. Henceforth, I am as free Before mankind, as in the sight of G.o.d.

Who only does not need to judge us men By deeds, which oftentimes are not our own.

Scene V.

Nathan _and the_ Templar.