Page 514 - Shakespeare - Vol. 3

DUKE

Why so I do, the noblest that I have.
O, when mine eyes did see Olivia first,
Methought she purg’d the air of pestilence; [20]

That instant was I turn’d into a hart,
And my desires, like fell and cruel hounds,
E’er since pursue me.

Enter Valentine.

How now? what news from her?

VALENTINE
So please my lord, I might not be admitted,
But from her handmaid do return this answer: [25]

The element itself, till seven year’s heat,
Shall not behold her face at ample view;
But like a cloistress she will veiled walk,

And water once a day her chamber round
With eye-offending brine: all this to season [30]
A brother’s dead love, which she would keep fresh
And lasting, in her sad remembrance.

DUKE
O, she that hath a heart of that fine frame

To pay this debt of love but to a brother,
How will she love, when the rich golden shaft [35]
Hath kill’d the flock of all affections else
That live in her; when liver, brain, and heart,

These sovereign thrones, are all supplied, and fill’d
Her sweet perfections with one self king!
Away before me to sweet beds of flowers! [40]
Love-thoughts lie rich when canopied with bowers.

Exeunt.

Scene II IT