The Death of Wallenstein

WALLENSTEIN, TERZKY, and ILLO (re-enter).

Illo. Is't all right?

Terzky. Are you compromised?

Illo. This Swede Went smiling from you. Yes! you're compromised.

Wallenstein. As yet is nothing settled; and (well weighed) I feel myself inclined to leave it so.

Terzky. How? What is that?

Wallenstein. Come on me what will come, The doing evil to avoid an evil Cannot be good!

Terzky. Nay, but bethink you, duke.

Wallenstein. To live upon the mercy of these Swedes! Of these proud-hearted Swedes!--I could not bear it.

Illo. Goest thou as fugitive, as mendicant? Bringest thou not more to them than thou receivest?

Wallenstein. How fared it with the brave and royal Bourbon Who sold himself unto his country's foes, And pierced the bosom of his father-land? Curses were his reward, and men's abhorrence Avenged the unnatural and revolting deed.

Illo. Is that thy case?

Wallenstein. True faith, I tell thee, Must ever be the dearest friend of man His nature prompts him to assert its rights. The enmity of sects, the rage of parties, Long-cherished envy, jealousy, unite;' And all the struggling elements of evil Suspend their conflict, and together league In one alliance 'gainst their common foe-- The savage beast that breaks into the fold, Where men repose in confidence and peace. For vain were man's own prudence to protect him. 'Tis only in the forehead nature plants The watchful eye; the back, without defence, Must find its shield in man's fidelity.

Terzky. Think not more meanly off thyself than do Thy foes, who stretch their hands with joy to greet thee. Less scrupulous far was the imperial Charles, The powerful head of this illustrious house; With open arms he gave the Bourbon welcome; For still by policy the world is ruled.