English Writers Volume 1; An Attempt Towards a History of English Literature (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1895 Excerpt: ...doom. Thus, words which would otherwise have never passed her lips are forced from them now. While the tread of the Spaniard's foot is momentarily expected without, as he shall come to woo her, Arethusa, in words of assumed reproach, rebukes Philaster for publicly claiming part of her dowry. Both kingdoms--Calabria and Sicily--she must have. "I must, and will have them, and more--" Upon this word she pauses, for what is the further avowal? In such a crisis it does not seem unmaidenly when it comes--" I must have them and thee " The declaration is sudden and startling, and just as sudden is the avowal of Philaster's love. It doubtless had long been nestling unknown within his bosom, only peering forth at times beneath the mask of loyal devotion, a restraining influence withholding him from any attempt upon the throne; for would not that involve wrong to Arethusa? Now it casts aside all disguise, and, Minerva-like, leaps forth full-grown. The Spanish prince may now appear, may wonder at Philaster's presence, and may speak of his "slighted greatness." The triumphant Philaster grasps the air with empty hand: "Sir, I can grasp you and your greatness thus--thus into nothing." And he is gone. Before Philaster left, however, he had arranged a means of communication between himself and Arethusa. It is one sign of the charm of this scene that the somewhat lengthy description of the finding by Philaster of the boy Bellario, through whom communication is to take place, dramatically unsuitable as it really is, is scarcely felt to be so. Every moment of this stolen interview is precious, the Spaniard may arrive at any minute, and yet we do not wish the idyllic verses one line shorter. The passage, of which the following are the ope...