—

26

SPIRIT. We can but give thee that which we possess: Ask of us subjects, sovereignty, the power O'er earth, the whole, or portion, or a sign Which shall control the elements, whereof

We are the dominators, each and all,

These shall be thine

MANFRED.

Oblivion, selfoblivion— Can ye not wring from out the hidden realms

Ve offer so profusely what I ask?

SpIRIT.

It is not in our essence, in our skill;

But— thou mayst die.

MAäANFRED.

Will death bestow it on me?