Urge me no more! It is too late to recede.

I know well what dangers I incur by accepting the crown--and what disgrace I should earn in refusing it.

Did I consult my inclinations, I should renounce the glittering ornament: but I will not have men to point at me covertly, and say, 'He faltered!' I will not endanger the noble barons who have devoted themselves to my advancement.

If I have sinned in alluring them thus far, I will not deepen my guilt by betraying them.
Though I knew that the crown which I am about to assume were like the gift of Medea, I would still set it on my temples: better pay the penalty of ambition by advancing than by timidly retreating, when boldness may remedy, and retreat is certain death!" The tread of armed men was heard along the passage, and immediately afterward the Count Mangold entered the room.
"The diet awaits your highness' answer," he said, bowing deeply to the duke.
"I will follow you," said Rodolph, "and deliver it in person." Saying this, he strode proudly from the room, preceded by the count and his attendants.
As the door closed behind them, Father Omehr fell upon his knees.

He knelt there with the tears streaming down his pale cheeks and his hands clasped in prayer, until a long loud shout announced Rodolph's acceptance.