And yet the superstitions we have learned From education, do not lose their power When we have found them out; nor are all free Whose judgment mocks the galling chains they wear. SALADIN. 'Tis wisely said; but Nathan, surely Nathan---- TEMPLAR. That superstition is the worst of all Which thinks itself the easiest to be borne---- SALADIN. 'Tis possible. But Nathan---- TEMPLAR. And to trust To it alone a blind humanity Till it is used to truth's more brilliant light. To it alone---- SALADIN. Well, well! But Nathan's fate Is not to be so weak---- TEMPLAR. I thought so once, But what if this bright pattern to mankind Were such a thorough Jew that he seeks out For Christian children to bring up as Jews? How then? SALADIN. Who speaks so of him? TEMPLAR. E'en the maid For whom I'm so distressed, with hopes of whom He seemed so glad to recompense the deed He would not suffer me to do for naught. This maid is not his daughter; no, she is A kidnapped Christian child. SALADIN. Whom Nathan now Refuses you! TEMPLAR (_earnestly_). Refuse or not refuse, He is found out--the prating hypocrite Is now found out; but on this Jewish wolf, For all his philosophical sheep's garb, Dogs I can loosen who will tear his hide. SALADIN (_earnestly_). Peace, Christian! TEMPLAR. What! peace, Christian? Wherefore so? Shall Jew and Mussulman be free to boast Their creeds, and shall the Christian be ashamed To own his faith? SALADIN (_more earnestly_). Peace, Christian! TEMPLAR (_calmly_). Yes, I feel What weight of blame lies in your calm reproof-- In that one word pronounced by Saladin. Oh! that I knew what Assad would have done Had he but fill'd my place! SALADIN.