To live upon the mercy of these Swedes! Of these proud-hearted Swedes!--I could not bear it. (ILLO: Goest thou as fugitive, as mendicant? Bringest thou not more to them than thou receivest?) How fared it with the brave and royal Bourbon Who sold himself unto his country's foes, And pierced the bosom of his father-land? Curses were his reward, and men's abhorrence Avenged the unnatural and revolting deed. (ILLO: Is that thy case?) True faith, I tell thee, Must ever be the dearest friend of man His nature prompts him to assert its rights. The enmity of sects, the rage of parties, Long-cherished envy, jealousy, unite;' And all the struggling elements of evil Suspend their conflict, and together league In one alliance 'gainst their common foe-- The savage beast that breaks into the fold, Where men repose in confidence and peace. For vain were man's own prudence to protect him. 'Tis only in the forehead nature plants The watchful eye; the back, without defence, Must find its shield in man's fidelity.

Wallenstein Monologue from The Death of Wallenstein

Rehearse Wallenstein's monologue