Page:Castruccio Castrucani.pdf/74

Hear me: it is my father's life I seek—
My father's!

CASTRUCCIO.

What does this mean?

CLARICHA.

You could not leave a crime upon my soul

So terrible! Arrezi is my parent!

CASTRUCCIO.

Your parent! How is this?

CLARICHA.

Secret he wedded one of your proud line

Who parted them, and never till this hour
Knew he his wife, nor yet his orphan's fate.
I am that wretched child!

CASTRUCCIO.

Can this be true?

CLARICHA.

Oh! do not cruelly waste time in doubt.

But let my agony attest the truth;
His life—my life—now hang upon a word.
Be merciful, Castruccio! speak that word,
Or see me die before you!

CASTRUCCIO.

There is no doubt?

CLARICHA.

None—none! Now, by our love, I do implore you!

He was my benefactor and my friend—
He is my father!

CASTRUCCIO.

I cannot let her hand—her innocent hand—

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