Page:The robbers - a tragedy (IA robberstragedy00schiiala).pdf/188
with such chimera-forms, that all eternity were scarce enough to unravel them.But perhaps it is by ever-varying scenes of misery in this ill world, that, step by step, thou leadst me to annihilation.—Oh that it were possible to stop the current of that after-life, as easy as 'tis to break the thread of this!—Thou may'st reduce me to nothing—but this liberty thou can'st not take from me. (He cocks the pistol, and then suddenly stops.) And shall I then rush to death, through slavish dread of living here in torment? Bend this man's soul beneath the scourge of misery?—No—I will bear it all. (He throws away the pistol.) My pride shall conquer sufferance.—Let my destiny be accomplished! (The night becomes more dark, and a bell at a distance strikes twelve.)
Enter Herman, who speaks, and is answered by a voice from the tower.
Herman.
Hush! Hush! How the howlet cries! The village clock strikes twelve;—all fast asleep—except remorse—and vengeance. (He goes to the tower, and knocks.) Come up, thou man of sorrow! Tenant of the tower! Thy meal is ready.
Moor.