The Maid of Orleans: A Tragedy

A watch-tower--an opening above. JOHANNA and LIONEL.

Fastolfe. (entering hastily) The people can no longer be restrained. With fury they demand the maiden's death. In vain your opposition. Let her die And throw her head down from the battlements! Her blood alone will satisfy the host.

Isabel. (coming in) With ladders they begin to scale the walls. Appease the angry people! Will you wait Till in blind fury they o'erthrow the tower, And we beneath its towers are destroyed? Protect her here you cannot. Give her up!

Lionel. Let them storm on. In fury let them rage! Firm is this castle, and beneath its ruins I will be buried ere I yield to them. --Johanna, answer me! only be mine, And I will shield thee 'gainst a world in arms.

Isabel. Are you a man?

Lionel. Thy friends have cast thee off. To thy ungrateful country then dost owe Duty and faith no longer. The false cowards Who sought thy hand, forsake thee in thy need. They for thy honor venture not the fight, But I, against my people and 'gainst thine, Will be thy champion. Once thou didst confess My life was dear to thee; in combat then I stood before thee as thine enemy-- Thou hast not now a single friend but me.

Johanna. Thou art my people's enemy and mine. Between us there can be no fellowship. Thee I can never love, but if thy heart Cherish affection for me, let it bring A blessing on my people. Lead thy troops Far from the borders of my fatherland; Give up the keys of all the captured towns, Restore the booty, set the captives free, Send hostages the compact to confirm, And peace I offer thee in my king's name.

Isabel. Wilt thou, a captive, dictate laws to us?

Johanna. It must be done; 'tis useless to delay. Never, oh never, will this land endure The English yoke; sooner will France become A mighty sepulchre for England's hosts. Fallen in battle are your bravest chiefs. Think how you may achieve a safe retreat; Your fame is forfeited, your power is lost.

Isabel. Can you endure her raving insolence?