[23] My will. I feel once more the scars of the old flame. [24] But no, I would rather the earth should open and swallow me [25] Or the Father of heaven strike me with lightning down to the shades— [26] The pale shades and deep night of the Underworld—before [27] I violate or deny pure widowhood’s claim upon me. [28] He who first wedded me took with him, when he died, [29] My right to love: let him keep it, there, in the tomb, for ever. [30] So Dido spoke, and the rising tears flooded her bosom.