by
Robert Browning

Introduction

ACT FIRST, BEING WHAT WAS CALLED THE POETRY OF CHIAPPINO’S LIFE; AND ACT SECOND, ITS PROSE

This drama was first printed with Luria as the concluding number of Bells and Pomegranates in April, 1846.

PERSONS
Luitolfo and Eulalia, betrothed lovers.
Chiappino, their friend.
Ogniben, the Pope’s Legate.
Citizens of Faenza.

Time, 15—. Place, Faenza.

Act I

Inside Luitolfo’s house. Chiappino, Eulalia.

Eulalia. What is it keeps Luitolfo? Night’s fast falling,
And ‘t was scarce sunset … had the ave-bell
Sounded before he sought the Provost’s house?
I think not: all he had to say would take
Few minutes, such a very few, to say!
How do you think, Chiappino? If our lord
The Provost were less friendly to your friend
Than everybody here professes him,
I should begin to tremble — should not you?
Why are you silent when so many times
I turn and speak to you?

Chiappino. That’s good!

Eu. You laugh!

Ch. Yes. I had fancied nothing that bears price
In the whole world was left to call my own;
And, maybe, felt a little pride thereat.
Up to a single man’s or woman’s love,
Down to the right in my own flesh and blood,
There’s nothing mine, I fancied, — till you spoke:
— Counting, you see, as “nothing” the permission
To study this peculiar lot of mine
In silence: well, go silence with the rest
Of the world’s good! What can I say, shall serve?

Eu. This, — lest you, even more than needs, embitter
Our parting: say your wrongs have cast, for once,
A cloud across your spirit!

Ch. How a cloud?

Eu. No man nor woman loves you, did you say?

Ch. My God, were ‘t not for thee!

Eu. Ay, God remains,
Even did men forsake you.