_Belv._ Yes, kill me. When he passed his faith And covenant against your state and Senate, He gave me up as hostage for his truth; With me a dagger, and a dire commission, Whene'er he failed, to plunge it through this bosom. I learnt the danger, chose the hour of love To attempt his heart, and bring it back to honour. Great Love prevailed, and blessed me with success; He came, confessed, betrayed his dearest friends For promised mercy. Now they're doomed to suffer, Galled with remembrance of what then was sworn, If they are lost, he vows to appease the gods With this poor life, and make my blood the atonement. _Priu._ Heavens! _Belv._ Think you saw what passed at our last parting; Think you beheld him like a raging lion, Pacing the earth, and tearing up his steps, Fate in his eyes, and roaring with the pain Of burning fury; think you saw his one hand Fixed on my throat, whilst the extended other Grasped a keen threatening dagger; oh! 'twas thus We last embraced; when, trembling with revenge, He dragged me to the ground, and at my bosom Presented horrid death; cried out "My friends! Where are my friends?" swore, wept, raged, threatened, loved; For he yet loved, and that dear love preserved me To this last trial of a father's pity. I fear not death, but cannot bear a thought That that dear hand should do the unfriendly office. If I was ever then your care, now hear me; Fly to the Senate, save the promised lives Of his dear friends, ere mine be made the sacrifice. _Priu._ Oh, my heart's comfort! _Belv._ Will you not, my father? Weep not, but answer me. _Priu._ By Heaven, I will. Not one of them but what shall be immortal. Canst thou forgive me all my follies past? I'll henceforth be indeed a father; never, Never more thus expose, but cherish thee, Dear as the vital warmth that feeds my life; Dear as these eyes that weep in fondness o'er thee. Peace to thy heart! Farewell. _Belv._ Go, and remember 'Tis Belvidera's life her father pleads for. [_Exeunt severally._ _Enter_ ANTONIO.