Athaliah Part 7

They praise, and bless the Lord.

{ATHALIAH.}

And does He wish that one should always pray And meditate.

{JOAS.}

All deeds profane are banished from His temple.

{ATHALIAH.}

What are your pleasures, then?

{JOAS.}

Sometimes unto the high priest I present Either the salt or incense at the altar: I hear them sing of G.o.d's unbounded greatness, I see the sumptuous order of His rites.

{ATHALIAH.}

Alas! have you no pastimes more delightful?

I pity the sad fate of one like you.

Come to my palace, see my splendour there.

{JOAS.}

I! I should lose the memory of G.o.d's blessings!

{ATHALIAH.}

No. I would not constrain you to forget Him.

{JOAS.}

You do not pray to Him.

{ATHALIAH.}

But you can pray to Him.

{JOAS.}

But I should see another G.o.d invoked.

{ATHALIAH.}

I have my G.o.d to serve, and you have yours.

They both are powerful G.o.ds.

{JOAS.}

Mine must be feared, for He alone is G.o.d, And yours is nothing, Madam.

{ATHALIAH.}

Pleasures, near _me_, will seek you out, in crowds.

{JOAS.}

The blessings of the wicked pa.s.s away, As doth a torrent

{ATHALIAH.}

The wicked! Who are they?

{JOSABET.}

Pray, Madam! excuse a child.

{ATHALIAH}

I like to see how you are training him.

At length, Eliacin, you have amused me; You're, doubtless, not an ordinary child.

You see I am a queen, without an heir: Cast off these garments, quit this menial trade, And all my riches I will share with you.

Try the conclusion of my promises: Beside me at my table, everywhere, I promise you shall sit as my own son.

{JOAS.}

As your own son?

{ATHALIAH.}

Yes, would it please you?

{JOAS.}

Ah what a father I should leave, and for--

{ATHALIAH.}

Well!

{JOAS.}

What kind of mother!

{ATHALIAH.}

His memory's faithful; and in all he says I recognise your animus and Joad's.

Behold, how here, corrupting simple youth, You both employ the peace I leave you in!