Page 1313 - Shakespeare - Vol. 4

Like old emportment’s bastard − has this end, [80]
That the true love ’tween maid and maid may be
More than in sex dividual.

HIPPOLYTA
You’re out of breath,
And this high-speeded pace is but to say

That you shall never − like the maid Flavina −
Love any that’s called man.

EMILIA
I am sure I shall not. [85]

HIPPOLYTA
Now alack, weak sister,

I must no more believe thee in this point,
Though in’t I know thou dost believe thyself,
Than I will trust a sickly appetite
That loathes even as it longs. But sure, my sister, [90]
If I were ripe for your persuasion, you

Have said enough to shake me from the arm
Of the all-noble Theseus, for whose fortunes
I will now in and kneel, with great assurance

That we, more than his Pirithous, possess [95]
The high throne in his heart.

EMILIA
I am not
Against your faith, yet I continue mine.
Exeunt.

Scene IV IT

Cornets. A battle struck within; then a retreat Flourish. Then enter
Theseus, victor, with Herald and attendants, and Palamon and Arcite brought
in on hearses. The three Queens meet him, and fall on their faces before him.