Part 18

Medora. I don’t. I’d see him further first, and then I won’t.

Conrad. Brave girl, ’twould be, were I of you bereft, A still more awful sell than that I’ve left.

Gul. But I’ve a plan.

Conrad. Out with it.

Gul. ’Tis that she Pretend submission until you are free.

Conrad. Good!

Medora. But suppose he makes me sticks to it? And marry him.

Gul. Nay, trust to woman’s wit, I mean to marry him myself--I told you; As the sole obstacle, I now behold you. You gone, of all my hopes comes the revival, With your departure, I’ve no more a rival. But some one comes; they must not here perceive me. Get in. [Pushing CONRAD in.

Conrad. [Struggling.] Get out.

Gul. Go, go. [Locks door.

Medora. You won’t deceive me?

Gul. Trust me. [Exit, R.

Medora. I will.

March.--Enter PASHA, SYNG SMAUL, GUARDS, &c., L.

Medora. [Aside.] And now consent to sham!

Pasha. Well madam, are you quite resolved?

Medora. I am.

Pasha. Pause ere you speak--mind, your refusal crushes The Corsair’s chance. Your answer!

Medora. [Modestly.] Spare my blushes.

Pasha. What, you consent?

Medora. Oh, sir!

Pasha. You do! you love me?

Medora. Can I believe that one so high above me Can honor thus his slave?

Pasha. Oh, joy! ’tis true! Shout dogs!

Syng. Shout dogs! [All shout.

Pasha. Peace, slave! who spoke to you? For my sake you give up the Corsair?

Medora. Clearly. It can’t be helped--I’m sorry for him, really, His fate is harsh, but even were it harsher, Who would compare a pirate with a Pasha? I like a wealthy husband--he, poor chap, Comes with a ring, but comes without a rap.

Pasha. Huzza! Shout, dogs! [All shout.