_ Choke in that threat; I can say _or_ as loud.
_Emp._ 'Tis well; I see my words have no effect,
But I may send a message to dispose you. [_Is going off._
_Dor._ Expect an answer worthy of that message.
_Muf._ The prophet owed him this;
And, thanked be heaven, he has it. [_Aside._
_Bend._ By holy Alla, I conjure you stay,
And judge not rashly of so brave a man.
[_Draws the Emperor aside, and whispers him._
I'll give you reasons why he cannot execute
Your orders now, and why he will hereafter.
_Muf._ Benducar is a fool, to bring him off;
I'll work my own revenge, and speedily. [_Aside._
_Bend._ The fort is his, the soldiers' hearts are his;
A thousand Christian slaves are in the castle,
Which he can free to reinforce his power;
Your troops far off, beleaguering Larache,
Yet in the Christians' hands.
_Emp._ I grant all this;
But grant me he must die.
_Bend._ He shall, by poison;
'Tis here, the deadly drug, prepared in powder,
Hot as hell fire: Then, to prevent his soldiers
From rising to revenge their general's death,
While he is struggling with his mortal pangs,
The rabble on the sudden may be raised
To seize the castle.
_Emp._ Do't;--'tis left to thee.
_Bend._ Yet more;--but clear your brow, for he observes.
[_They whisper again.
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