Ah, timid fool,--so you dare speak of love,--
Who lack the fortitude to strike him down
That stands across your path? Away from me!

[She turns her back on him.]

CURIUS. [Holding her back.]
No;--do not leave me! I am in all things willing!
A shudder chills me as I look on you;
And yet I cannot break this net asunder
Wherein you trapped my soul.

FURIA. Then you are willing?

CURIUS. Why do you mock me with such questioning?
If I am willing? Have I any will?
Your gaze is like the serpent's when 'tis fixed
With magic power upon the bird, that circles
Wildly about in terror-stricken awe,
Drawn ever nearer to the dreadful fangs.

FURIA. Then to your task!

CURIUS. And when I've sacrificed
My friendship to my love for you,--what then?

FURIA. I shall forget that Catiline existed.
Then will my task be ended. Ask no more!

CURIUS. For this reward I should--?