A Gallery.
DON CARLOS, COUNT LERMA.
CARLOS.
Here we are undisturbed. What would you now
Impart to me?
LERMA.
Your highness has a friend
Here at the court.
CARLOS (starting).
A friend! I knew it not!
But what's your meaning?
LERMA.
I must sue for pardon
That I am learned in more than I should know.
But for your highness' comfort I've received it
From one I may depend upon—in short,
I have it from myself.
CARLOS.
Whom speak you of?
LERMA.
The Marquis Posa.
CARLOS.
What!
LERMA.
And if your highness
Has trusted to him more of what concerns you
Than every one should know, as I am led
To fear——
CARLOS.
You fear!
LERMA.
He has been with the king.
CARLOS.
Indeed!
LERMA.
Two hours in secret converse too.
CARLOS.
Indeed!
LERMA.
The subject was no trifling matter.
CARLOS.
That I can well believe.
LERMA.
And several times
I heard your name.
CARLOS.
That's no bad sign, I hope.
LERMA.
And then, this morning, in the king's apartment,
The queen was spoken of mysteriously.
CARLOS (starts back astonished).
Count Lerma!
LERMA.
When the marquis had retired
I was commanded to admit his lordship
In future unannounced.
CARLOS.
Astonishing!
LERMA.
And without precedent do I believe,
Long as I served the king——
CARLOS.
'Tis strange, indeed!
How did you say the queen was spoken of?
LERMA (steps back).
No, no, my prince! that were against my duty.
CARLOS.
'Tis somewhat strange! One secret you impart.
The other you withhold.
LERMA.
The first was due
To you, the other to the king.
CARLOS.
You're right.
LERMA.
And still I've thought you, prince, a man of honor.
CARLOS.
Then you have judged me truly.
LERMA.
But all virtue
Is spotless till it's tried.
CARLOS.
Some stand the trial.
LERMA.
A powerful monarch's favor is a prize
Worth seeking for; and this alluring bait
Has ruined many a virtue.
CARLOS.
Truly said!
LERMA.
And oftentimes 'tis prudent to discover—
What scarce can longer be concealed.
CARLOS.
Yes, prudent
It may be, but you say you've ever known
The marquis prove himself a man of honor.
LERMA.
And if he be so still my fears are harmless,
And you become a double gainer, prince.
[Going.
CARLOS (follows him with emotion, and presses his hand).
Trebly I gain, upright and worthy man,
I gain another friend, nor lose the one
Whom I before possessed.
[Exit LERMA.
DON CARLOS, COUNT LERMA.
CARLOS.
Here we are undisturbed. What would you now
Impart to me?
LERMA.
Your highness has a friend
Here at the court.
CARLOS (starting).
A friend! I knew it not!
But what's your meaning?
LERMA.
I must sue for pardon
That I am learned in more than I should know.
But for your highness' comfort I've received it
From one I may depend upon—in short,
I have it from myself.
CARLOS.
Whom speak you of?
LERMA.
The Marquis Posa.
CARLOS.
What!
LERMA.
And if your highness
Has trusted to him more of what concerns you
Than every one should know, as I am led
To fear——
CARLOS.
You fear!
LERMA.
He has been with the king.
CARLOS.
Indeed!
LERMA.
Two hours in secret converse too.
CARLOS.
Indeed!
LERMA.
The subject was no trifling matter.
CARLOS.
That I can well believe.
LERMA.
And several times
I heard your name.
CARLOS.
That's no bad sign, I hope.
LERMA.
And then, this morning, in the king's apartment,
The queen was spoken of mysteriously.
CARLOS (starts back astonished).
Count Lerma!
LERMA.
When the marquis had retired
I was commanded to admit his lordship
In future unannounced.
CARLOS.
Astonishing!
LERMA.
And without precedent do I believe,
Long as I served the king——
CARLOS.
'Tis strange, indeed!
How did you say the queen was spoken of?
LERMA (steps back).
No, no, my prince! that were against my duty.
CARLOS.
'Tis somewhat strange! One secret you impart.
The other you withhold.
LERMA.
The first was due
To you, the other to the king.
CARLOS.
You're right.
LERMA.
And still I've thought you, prince, a man of honor.
CARLOS.
Then you have judged me truly.
LERMA.
But all virtue
Is spotless till it's tried.
CARLOS.
Some stand the trial.
LERMA.
A powerful monarch's favor is a prize
Worth seeking for; and this alluring bait
Has ruined many a virtue.
CARLOS.
Truly said!
LERMA.
And oftentimes 'tis prudent to discover—
What scarce can longer be concealed.
CARLOS.
Yes, prudent
It may be, but you say you've ever known
The marquis prove himself a man of honor.
LERMA.
And if he be so still my fears are harmless,
And you become a double gainer, prince.
[Going.
CARLOS (follows him with emotion, and presses his hand).
Trebly I gain, upright and worthy man,
I gain another friend, nor lose the one
Whom I before possessed.
[Exit LERMA.
SCENE V.
MARQUIS POSA comes through the gallery. CARLOS.
MARQUIS.
Carlos! My Carlos!
CARLOS.
Who calls me? Ah! 'tis thou—I was in haste
To gain the convent! You will not delay.
[Going.
MARQUIS.
Hold! for a moment.
CARLOS.
We may be observed.
MARQUIS.
No chance of that. 'Tis over now. The queen——
CARLOS.
You've seen my father.
MARQUIS.
Yes! he sent for me.
CARLOS (full of expectation).
Well!
MARQUIS.
'Tis all settled—you may see the queen.
CARLOS.
Yes! but the king! What said the king to you?
MARQUIS.
Not much. Mere curiosity to learn
My history. The zeal of unknown friends—
I know not what. He offered me employment.
CARLOS.
Which you, of course, rejected?
MARQUIS.
Yes, of course
CARLOS.
How did you separate?
MARQUIS.
Oh, well enough!
CARLOS.
And was I mentioned?
MARQUIS.
Yes; in general terms.
[Taking out a pocketbook and giving it to the PRINCE.
See here are two lines written by the queen,
To-morrow I will settle where and how.
CARLOS (reads it carelessly, puts the tablet in his pocket,
and is going).
You'll meet me at the prior's?
MARQUIS.
Yes! But stay
Why in such haste? No one is coming hither.
CARLOS (with a forced smile).
Have we in truth changed characters? To-day
You seem so bold and confident.
MARQUIS.
To-day—
Wherefore to-day?
CARLOS.
What writes the queen to me?
MARQUIS.
Have you not read this instant?
CARLOS.
I? Oh yes.
MARQUIS.
What is't disturbs you now?
CARLOS (reads the tablet again, delighted and fervently).
Angel of Heaven!
I will be so,—I will be worthy of thee.
Love elevates great minds. So come what may,
Whatever thou commandest, I'll perform.
She writes that I must hold myself prepared
For a great enterprise! What can she mean?
Dost thou not know?
MARQUIS.
And, Carlos, if I knew,
Say, art thou now prepared to hear it from me?
CARLOS.
Have I offended thee? I was distracted.
Roderigo, pardon me.
MARQUIS.
Distracted! How?
CARLOS.
I scarcely know! But may I keep this tablet?
MARQUIS.
Not so! I came to ask thee for thine own.
CARLOS.
My tablet! Why?
MARQUIS.
And whatsoever writings
You have, unfit to meet a stranger's eye—
Letters or memorandums, and in short,
Your whole portfolio.
CARLOS.
Why?
MARQUIS.
That we may be
Prepared for accidents. Who can prevent
Surprise? They'll never seek them in my keeping.
Here, give them to me——
CARLOS (uneasy).
Strange! What can it mean?
MARQUIS.
Be not alarmed! 'Tis nothing of importance
A mere precaution to prevent surprise.
You need not be alarmed!
CARLOS (gives him the portfolio).
Be careful of it.
MARQUIS.
Be sure I will.
CARLOS (looks at him significantly).
I give thee much, Roderigo!
MARQUIS.
Not more than I have often had from thee.
The rest we'll talk of yonder. Now farewell.
[Going.
CARLOS (struggling with himself, then calls him back).
Give me my letters back; there's one amongst them
The queen addressed to me at Alcala,
When I was sick to death. Still next my heart
I carry it; to take this letter from me
Goes to my very soul. But leave me that,
And take the rest.
[He takes it out, and returns the portfolio.
MARQUIS.
I yield unwillingly—
For 'twas that letter which I most required.
CARLOS.
Farewell!
[He goes away slowly, stops a moment at the door, turns
back again, and brings him the letter.
You have it there.
[His hand trembles, tears start from his eyes, he falls on
the neck of the MARQUIS, and presses his face to his bosom.
Oh, not my father,
Could do so much, Roderigo! Not my father!
[Exit hastily.
MARQUIS.
Carlos! My Carlos!
CARLOS.
Who calls me? Ah! 'tis thou—I was in haste
To gain the convent! You will not delay.
[Going.
MARQUIS.
Hold! for a moment.
CARLOS.
We may be observed.
MARQUIS.
No chance of that. 'Tis over now. The queen——
CARLOS.
You've seen my father.
MARQUIS.
Yes! he sent for me.
CARLOS (full of expectation).
Well!
MARQUIS.
'Tis all settled—you may see the queen.
CARLOS.
Yes! but the king! What said the king to you?
MARQUIS.
Not much. Mere curiosity to learn
My history. The zeal of unknown friends—
I know not what. He offered me employment.
CARLOS.
Which you, of course, rejected?
MARQUIS.
Yes, of course
CARLOS.
How did you separate?
MARQUIS.
Oh, well enough!
CARLOS.
And was I mentioned?
MARQUIS.
Yes; in general terms.
[Taking out a pocketbook and giving it to the PRINCE.
See here are two lines written by the queen,
To-morrow I will settle where and how.
CARLOS (reads it carelessly, puts the tablet in his pocket,
and is going).
You'll meet me at the prior's?
MARQUIS.
Yes! But stay
Why in such haste? No one is coming hither.
CARLOS (with a forced smile).
Have we in truth changed characters? To-day
You seem so bold and confident.
MARQUIS.
To-day—
Wherefore to-day?
CARLOS.
What writes the queen to me?
MARQUIS.
Have you not read this instant?
CARLOS.
I? Oh yes.
MARQUIS.
What is't disturbs you now?
CARLOS (reads the tablet again, delighted and fervently).
Angel of Heaven!
I will be so,—I will be worthy of thee.
Love elevates great minds. So come what may,
Whatever thou commandest, I'll perform.
She writes that I must hold myself prepared
For a great enterprise! What can she mean?
Dost thou not know?
MARQUIS.
And, Carlos, if I knew,
Say, art thou now prepared to hear it from me?
CARLOS.
Have I offended thee? I was distracted.
Roderigo, pardon me.
MARQUIS.
Distracted! How?
CARLOS.
I scarcely know! But may I keep this tablet?
MARQUIS.
Not so! I came to ask thee for thine own.
CARLOS.
My tablet! Why?
MARQUIS.
And whatsoever writings
You have, unfit to meet a stranger's eye—
Letters or memorandums, and in short,
Your whole portfolio.
CARLOS.
Why?
MARQUIS.
That we may be
Prepared for accidents. Who can prevent
Surprise? They'll never seek them in my keeping.
Here, give them to me——
CARLOS (uneasy).
Strange! What can it mean?
MARQUIS.
Be not alarmed! 'Tis nothing of importance
A mere precaution to prevent surprise.
You need not be alarmed!
CARLOS (gives him the portfolio).
Be careful of it.
MARQUIS.
Be sure I will.
CARLOS (looks at him significantly).
I give thee much, Roderigo!
MARQUIS.
Not more than I have often had from thee.
The rest we'll talk of yonder. Now farewell.
[Going.
CARLOS (struggling with himself, then calls him back).
Give me my letters back; there's one amongst them
The queen addressed to me at Alcala,
When I was sick to death. Still next my heart
I carry it; to take this letter from me
Goes to my very soul. But leave me that,
And take the rest.
[He takes it out, and returns the portfolio.
MARQUIS.
I yield unwillingly—
For 'twas that letter which I most required.
CARLOS.
Farewell!
[He goes away slowly, stops a moment at the door, turns
back again, and brings him the letter.
You have it there.
[His hand trembles, tears start from his eyes, he falls on
the neck of the MARQUIS, and presses his face to his bosom.
Oh, not my father,
Could do so much, Roderigo! Not my father!
[Exit hastily.
SCENE VI.
MARQUIS (looks after him with astonishment).
And is this possible! And to this hour
Have I not known him fully? In his heart
This blemish has escaped my eye. Distrust
Of me—his friend! But no, 'tis calumny!
What hath he done that I accuse him thus
Of weakest weakness. I myself commit
The fault I charge on him. What have I done
Might well surprise him! When hath he displayed
To his best friend such absolute reserve?
Carlos, I must afflict thee—there's no help—
And longer still distress thy noble soul.
In me the king hath placed his confidence,
His holiest trust reposed—as in a casket,
And this reliance calls for gratitude.
How can disclosure serve thee when my silence
Brings thee no harm—serves thee, perhaps? Ah! why
Point to the traveller the impending storm?
Enough, if I direct its anger past thee!
And when thou wakest the sky's again serene.
[Exit.
And is this possible! And to this hour
Have I not known him fully? In his heart
This blemish has escaped my eye. Distrust
Of me—his friend! But no, 'tis calumny!
What hath he done that I accuse him thus
Of weakest weakness. I myself commit
The fault I charge on him. What have I done
Might well surprise him! When hath he displayed
To his best friend such absolute reserve?
Carlos, I must afflict thee—there's no help—
And longer still distress thy noble soul.
In me the king hath placed his confidence,
His holiest trust reposed—as in a casket,
And this reliance calls for gratitude.
How can disclosure serve thee when my silence
Brings thee no harm—serves thee, perhaps? Ah! why
Point to the traveller the impending storm?
Enough, if I direct its anger past thee!
And when thou wakest the sky's again serene.
[Exit.
SCENE VII.
The KING's Cabinet.
The KING seated, near him the INFANTA CLARA EUGENIA.
KING (after a deep silence).
No—she is sure my daughter—or can nature
Thus lie like truth! Yes, that blue eye is mine!
And I am pictured in thy every feature.
Child of my love! for such thou art—I fold thee
Thus to my heart; thou art my blood.
[Starts and pauses:
My blood—
What's worse to fear? Are not my features his?
[Takes the miniature in his hand and looks first at
the portrait, then at the mirror opposite; at last he
throws it on the ground, rises hastily, and pushes the
INFANTA from him.
Away, away! I'm lost in this abyss.
The KING seated, near him the INFANTA CLARA EUGENIA.
KING (after a deep silence).
No—she is sure my daughter—or can nature
Thus lie like truth! Yes, that blue eye is mine!
And I am pictured in thy every feature.
Child of my love! for such thou art—I fold thee
Thus to my heart; thou art my blood.
[Starts and pauses:
My blood—
What's worse to fear? Are not my features his?
[Takes the miniature in his hand and looks first at
the portrait, then at the mirror opposite; at last he
throws it on the ground, rises hastily, and pushes the
INFANTA from him.
Away, away! I'm lost in this abyss.
SCENE VIII.
COUNT LERMA and the KING.
LERMA.
Her majesty is in the antechamber.
KING.
What! Now?
LERMA.
And begs the favor of an audience.
KING.
Now! At this unaccustomed hour! Not now—
I cannot see her yet.
LERMA.
Here comes the queen.
[Exit LERMA.
LERMA.
Her majesty is in the antechamber.
KING.
What! Now?
LERMA.
And begs the favor of an audience.
KING.
Now! At this unaccustomed hour! Not now—
I cannot see her yet.
LERMA.
Here comes the queen.
[Exit LERMA.
SCENE IX.
The KING, the QUEEN enters, and the INFANTA.
The INFANTA runs to meet the QUEEN and clings to her;
the QUEEN falls at the KING's feet, who is silent,
and appears confused and embarrassed.
QUEEN.
My lord! My husband! I'm constrained to seek
Justice before the throne!
KING.
What? Justice!
QUEEN.
Yes!
I'm treated with dishonor at the court!
My casket has been rifled.
KING.
What! Your casket?
QUEEN.
And things I highly value have been plundered.
KING.
Things that you highly value.
QUEEN.
From the meaning
Which ignorant men's officiousness, perhaps,
Might give to them——
KING.
What's this? Officiousness,
And meaning! How? But rise.
QUEEN.
Oh no, my husband!
Not till you bind yourself by sacred promise,
By virtue of your own authority,
To find the offender out, and grant redress,
Or else dismiss my suite, which hides a thief.
KING.
But rise! In such a posture! Pray you, rise.
QUEEN (rises).
'Tis some one of distinction—I know well;
My casket held both diamonds and pearls
Of matchless value, but he only took
My letters.
KING.
May I ask——
QUEEN.
Undoubtedly,
My husband. They were letters from the prince:
His miniature as well.
KING.
From whom?
QUEEN.
The prince,
Your son.
KING.
To you?
QUEEN.
Sent by the prince to me.
KING.
What! From Prince Carlos! Do you tell me that?
QUEEN.
Why not tell you, my husband?
KING.
And not blush.
QUEEN.
What mean you? You must surely recollect
The letters Carlos sent me to St. Germains,
With both courts' full consent. Whether that leave
Extended to the portrait, or alone
His hasty hope dictated such a step,
I cannot now pretend to answer; but
If even rash, it may at least be pardoned
For thus much I may be his pledge—that then
He never thought the gift was for his mother.
[Observes the agitation of the KING.
What moves you? What's the matter?
INFANTA (who has found the miniature on the ground, and has been
playing with it, brings it to the QUEEN).
Look, dear mother!
See what a pretty picture!
QUEEN.
What then my——
[She recognizes the miniature, and remains in speechless
astonishment. They both gaze at each other. After a long pause.
In truth, this mode of trying a wife's heart
Is great and royal, sire! But I should wish
To ask one question?
KING.
'Tis for me to question.
QUEEN.
Let my suspicions spare the innocent.
And if by your command this theft was done——
KING.
It was so done!
QUEEN.
Then I have none to blame,
And none to pity—other than yourself—
Since you possess a wife on whom such schemes
Are thrown away.
KING.
This language is not new—
Nor shall you, madam, now again deceive me
As in the gardens of Aranjuez—
My queen of angel purity, who then
So haughtily my accusation spurned—
I know her better now.
QUEEN.
What mean you, sire?
KING.
Madam! thus briefly and without reserve—
Say is it true? still true, that you conversed
With no one there? Is really that the truth?
QUEEN.
I spoke there with the prince.
KING.
Then is clear
As day! So daring! heedless of mine honor!
QUEEN.
Your honor, sire! If that be now the question,
A greater honor is, methinks, at stake
Than Castile ever brought me as a dowry.
KING.
Why did you then deny the prince's presence?
QUEEN.
Because I'm not accustomed to be questioned
Like a delinquent before all your courtiers;
I never shall deny the truth when asked
With kindness and respect. Was that the tone
Your majesty used towards me in Aranjuez?
Are your assembled grandees the tribunal
Queens must account to for their private conduct?
I gave the prince the interview he sought
With earnest prayer, because, my liege and lord,
I—the queen—wished and willed it, and because
I never can admit that formal custom
Should sit as judge on actions that are guiltless;
And I concealed it from your majesty
Because I chose not to contend with you
About this right in presence of your courtiers.
KING.
You speak with boldness, madam!
QUEEN.
I may add,
Because the prince, in his own father's heart,
Scarce finds that kindness he so well deserves.
KING.
So well deserves!
QUEEN.
Why, sire! should I conceal it!
Highly do I esteem him—yes! and love him
As a most dear relation, who was once
Deemed worthy of a dearer—tenderer—title.
I've yet to learn that he, on this account,
Should be estranged from me beyond all others,—
Because he once was better loved than they.
Though your state policy may knit together
What bands it pleases—'tis a harder task
To burst such ties! I will not hate another
For any one's command—and since I must
So speak—such dictates I will not endure.
KING.
Elizabeth! you've seen me in weak moments—
And their remembrance now emboldens you.
On that strong influence you now depend,
Which you have often, with so much success,
Against my firmness tried. But fear the more
The power which has seduced me to be weak
May yet inflame me to some act of madness.
QUEEN.
What have I done?
KING (takes her hand).
If it should prove but so—
And is it not already? If the full
Accumulated measure of your guilt
Become but one breath heavier—should I be
Deceived——
[Lets her hand go.
I can subdue these last remains
Of weakness—can and will—then woe betide
Myself and you, Elizabeth!
The INFANTA runs to meet the QUEEN and clings to her;
the QUEEN falls at the KING's feet, who is silent,
and appears confused and embarrassed.
QUEEN.
My lord! My husband! I'm constrained to seek
Justice before the throne!
KING.
What? Justice!
QUEEN.
Yes!
I'm treated with dishonor at the court!
My casket has been rifled.
KING.
What! Your casket?
QUEEN.
And things I highly value have been plundered.
KING.
Things that you highly value.
QUEEN.
From the meaning
Which ignorant men's officiousness, perhaps,
Might give to them——
KING.
What's this? Officiousness,
And meaning! How? But rise.
QUEEN.
Oh no, my husband!
Not till you bind yourself by sacred promise,
By virtue of your own authority,
To find the offender out, and grant redress,
Or else dismiss my suite, which hides a thief.
KING.
But rise! In such a posture! Pray you, rise.
QUEEN (rises).
'Tis some one of distinction—I know well;
My casket held both diamonds and pearls
Of matchless value, but he only took
My letters.
KING.
May I ask——
QUEEN.
Undoubtedly,
My husband. They were letters from the prince:
His miniature as well.
KING.
From whom?
QUEEN.
The prince,
Your son.
KING.
To you?
QUEEN.
Sent by the prince to me.
KING.
What! From Prince Carlos! Do you tell me that?
QUEEN.
Why not tell you, my husband?
KING.
And not blush.
QUEEN.
What mean you? You must surely recollect
The letters Carlos sent me to St. Germains,
With both courts' full consent. Whether that leave
Extended to the portrait, or alone
His hasty hope dictated such a step,
I cannot now pretend to answer; but
If even rash, it may at least be pardoned
For thus much I may be his pledge—that then
He never thought the gift was for his mother.
[Observes the agitation of the KING.
What moves you? What's the matter?
INFANTA (who has found the miniature on the ground, and has been
playing with it, brings it to the QUEEN).
Look, dear mother!
See what a pretty picture!
QUEEN.
What then my——
[She recognizes the miniature, and remains in speechless
astonishment. They both gaze at each other. After a long pause.
In truth, this mode of trying a wife's heart
Is great and royal, sire! But I should wish
To ask one question?
KING.
'Tis for me to question.
QUEEN.
Let my suspicions spare the innocent.
And if by your command this theft was done——
KING.
It was so done!
QUEEN.
Then I have none to blame,
And none to pity—other than yourself—
Since you possess a wife on whom such schemes
Are thrown away.
KING.
This language is not new—
Nor shall you, madam, now again deceive me
As in the gardens of Aranjuez—
My queen of angel purity, who then
So haughtily my accusation spurned—
I know her better now.
QUEEN.
What mean you, sire?
KING.
Madam! thus briefly and without reserve—
Say is it true? still true, that you conversed
With no one there? Is really that the truth?
QUEEN.
I spoke there with the prince.
KING.
Then is clear
As day! So daring! heedless of mine honor!
QUEEN.
Your honor, sire! If that be now the question,
A greater honor is, methinks, at stake
Than Castile ever brought me as a dowry.
KING.
Why did you then deny the prince's presence?
QUEEN.
Because I'm not accustomed to be questioned
Like a delinquent before all your courtiers;
I never shall deny the truth when asked
With kindness and respect. Was that the tone
Your majesty used towards me in Aranjuez?
Are your assembled grandees the tribunal
Queens must account to for their private conduct?
I gave the prince the interview he sought
With earnest prayer, because, my liege and lord,
I—the queen—wished and willed it, and because
I never can admit that formal custom
Should sit as judge on actions that are guiltless;
And I concealed it from your majesty
Because I chose not to contend with you
About this right in presence of your courtiers.
KING.
You speak with boldness, madam!
QUEEN.
I may add,
Because the prince, in his own father's heart,
Scarce finds that kindness he so well deserves.
KING.
So well deserves!
QUEEN.
Why, sire! should I conceal it!
Highly do I esteem him—yes! and love him
As a most dear relation, who was once
Deemed worthy of a dearer—tenderer—title.
I've yet to learn that he, on this account,
Should be estranged from me beyond all others,—
Because he once was better loved than they.
Though your state policy may knit together
What bands it pleases—'tis a harder task
To burst such ties! I will not hate another
For any one's command—and since I must
So speak—such dictates I will not endure.
KING.
Elizabeth! you've seen me in weak moments—
And their remembrance now emboldens you.
On that strong influence you now depend,
Which you have often, with so much success,
Against my firmness tried. But fear the more
The power which has seduced me to be weak
May yet inflame me to some act of madness.
QUEEN.
What have I done?
KING (takes her hand).
If it should prove but so—
And is it not already? If the full
Accumulated measure of your guilt
Become but one breath heavier—should I be
Deceived——
[Lets her hand go.
I can subdue these last remains
Of weakness—can and will—then woe betide
Myself and you, Elizabeth!
QUEEN.
What crime
Have I committed?
KING.
On my own account then
Shall blood be shed.
QUEEN.
And has it come to this?
Oh, Heaven!
KING.
I shall forget myself—I shall
Regard no usage and no voice of nature—
Not e'en the law of nations.
QUEEN.
Oh, how much
I pity you!
KING.
The pity of a harlot!
INFANTA (clinging to her mother in terror).
The king is angry, and my mother weeps.
[KING pushes the child violently from the QUEEN.
QUEEN (with mildness and dignity, but with faltering voice).
This child I must protect from cruelty—
Come with me, daughter.
[Takes her in her arms.
If the king no more
Acknowledge thee—beyond the Pyrenees
I'll call protectors to defend our cause.
[Going.
KING (embarrassed).
Queen!
QUEEN.
I can bear no more—it is too much!
[Hastening to the door, she falls with her child on the threshold.
KING (running to her assistance).
Heavens! What is that?
INFANTA (cries out with terror).
She bleeds! My mother bleeds!
[Runs out.
KING (anxiously assisting her).
Oh, what a fearful accident! You bleed;
Do I deserve this cruel punishment?
Rise and collect yourself—rise, they are coming!
They will surprise us! Shall the assembled court
Divert themselves with such a spectacle?
Must I entreat you? Rise.
[She rises, supported by the KING.
SCENE X.
The former, ALVA, DOMINGO entering, alarmed, ladies follow.
KING.
Now let the queen
Be led to her apartment; she's unwell.
[Exit the QUEEN, attended by her ladies.
ALVA and DOMINGO come forward.
ALVA.
The queen in tears, and blood upon her face!
KING.
Does that surprise the devils who've misled me?
ALVA and DOMINGO.
We?
KING.
You have said enough to drive me mad.
But nothing to convince me.
ALVA.
We gave you
What we ourselves possessed.
KING.
May hell reward you!
I've done what I repent of! Ah! was hers,
The language of a conscience dark with guilt?
MARQUIS POSA (from without).
Say, can I see the king?
KING.
Now let the queen
Be led to her apartment; she's unwell.
[Exit the QUEEN, attended by her ladies.
ALVA and DOMINGO come forward.
ALVA.
The queen in tears, and blood upon her face!
KING.
Does that surprise the devils who've misled me?
ALVA and DOMINGO.
We?
KING.
You have said enough to drive me mad.
But nothing to convince me.
ALVA.
We gave you
What we ourselves possessed.
KING.
May hell reward you!
I've done what I repent of! Ah! was hers,
The language of a conscience dark with guilt?
MARQUIS POSA (from without).
Say, can I see the king?
SCENE XI.
The former, MARQUIS POSA.
KING (starts up at the sound of his voice, and advances
some paces to meet him).
Ah! here he comes.
Right welcome, marquis! Duke! I need you now
No longer. Leave us.
[ALVA and DOMINGO look at each other with silent
astonishment and retire.
KING (starts up at the sound of his voice, and advances
some paces to meet him).
Ah! here he comes.
Right welcome, marquis! Duke! I need you now
No longer. Leave us.
[ALVA and DOMINGO look at each other with silent
astonishment and retire.
SCENE XII.
The KING, and MARQUIS POSA.
MARQUIS.
That old soldier, sire,
Who has faced death, in twenty battles, for you,
Must hold it thankless to be so dismissed.
KING.
'Tis thus for you to think—for me to act;
In a few hours you have been more to me
Than that man in a lifetime. Nor shall I
Keep my content a secret. On your brow
The lustre of my high and royal favor
Shall shine resplendent—I will make that man
A mark for envy whom I choose my friend.
MARQUIS.
What if the veil of dark obscurity
Were his sole claim to merit such a title?
KING.
What come you now to tell me?
MARQUIS.
As I passed
Along the antechamber a dread rumor
Fell on my ear,—it seemed incredible,—
Of a most angry quarrel—blood—the queen——
KING.
Come you from her?
MARQUIS.
I should be horrified
Were not the rumor false: or should perhaps
Your majesty meantime have done some act—
Discoveries of importance I have made,
Which wholly change the aspect of affairs.
KING.
How now?
MARQUIS.
I found an opportunity
To seize your son's portfolio, with his letters,
Which, as I hope, may throw some light——
[He gives the PRINCE's portfolio to the KING.
KING (looks through it eagerly).
A letter
From the emperor, my father. How! a letter
Of which I ne'er remember to have heard.
[He reads it through, puts it aside, and goes
to the other papers.
A drawing of some fortress—detached thoughts
From Tacitus—and what is here? The hand
I surely recognize—it is a lady's.
[He reads it attentively, partly to himself,
and partly aloud.
"This key—the farthest chamber of the queen's
Pavilion!" Ha! what's this? "The voice of love,—
The timid lover—may—a rich reward."
Satanic treachery! I see it now.
'Tis she—'tis her own writing!
MARQUIS.
The queen's writing!
Impossible!
KING.
The Princess Eboli's.
MARQUIS.
Then, it was true, what the queen's page confessed,
Not long since—that he brought this key and letter.
KING (grasping the MARQUIS' hand in great emotion).
Marquis! I see that I'm in dreadful hands.
This woman—I confess it—'twas this woman
Forced the queen's casket: and my first suspicions
Were breathed by her. Who knows how deep the priest
May be engaged in this? I am deceived
By cursed villany.
MARQUIS.
Then it was lucky——
KING.
Marquis! O marquis! I begin to fear
I've wronged my wife.
MARQUIS.
If there exist between
The prince and queen some secret understandings,
They are of other import, rest assured,
Than those they charge her with. I know, for certain,
The prince's prayer to be despatched to Flanders
Was by the queen suggested.
KING.
I have thought so.
MARQUIS.
The queen's ambitious. Dare I speak more fully?
She sees, with some resentment, her high hopes
All disappointed, and herself shut out
From share of empire. Your son's youthful ardor
Offers itself to her far-reaching views,
Her heart! I doubt if she can love.
KING.
Her schemes
Of policy can never make me tremble.
MARQUIS.
Whether the Infant loves her—whether we
Have something worse to fear from him,—are things
Worthy our deep attention. To these points
Our strictest vigilance must be directed.
KING.
You must be pledge for him.
MARQUIS.
And if the king
Esteem me capable of such a task,
I must entreat it be intrusted to me
Wholly without conditions.
KING.
So it shall.
MARQUIS.
That in the steps which I may think required,
I may be thwarted by no coadjutors,
Whatever name they bear.
KING.
I pledge my word
You shall not. You have proved my guardian angel.
How many thanks I owe you for this service!
[LERMA enters—the KING to him.
How did you leave the queen?
LERMA.
But scarce recovered
From her deep swoon.
[He looks at the MARQUIS doubtfully, and exit.
MARQUIS (to the KING, after a pause).
One caution yet seems needful.
The prince may be advised of our design,
For he has many faithful friends in Ghent,
And may have partisans among the rebels.
Fear may incite to desperate resolves;
Therefore I counsel that some speedy means
Be taken to prevent this fatal chance.
KING.
You are quite right—but how?
MARQUIS.
Your majesty
May sign a secret warrant of arrest
And place it in my hands, to be employed,
As may seem needful, in the hour of danger.
[The KING appears thoughtful.
This step must be a most profound state secret
Until——
KING (going to his desk and writing the warrant of arrest).
The kingdom is at stake, and now
The pressing danger sanctions urgent measures.
Here marquis! I need scarcely say—use prudence.
MARQUIS (taking the warrant).
'Tis only for the last extremity.
KING (laying his hand on the shoulder of the MARQUIS).
Go! Go, dear marquis! Give this bosom peace,
And bring back slumber to my sleepless pillow.
[Exeunt at different sides.
MARQUIS.
That old soldier, sire,
Who has faced death, in twenty battles, for you,
Must hold it thankless to be so dismissed.
KING.
'Tis thus for you to think—for me to act;
In a few hours you have been more to me
Than that man in a lifetime. Nor shall I
Keep my content a secret. On your brow
The lustre of my high and royal favor
Shall shine resplendent—I will make that man
A mark for envy whom I choose my friend.
MARQUIS.
What if the veil of dark obscurity
Were his sole claim to merit such a title?
KING.
What come you now to tell me?
MARQUIS.
As I passed
Along the antechamber a dread rumor
Fell on my ear,—it seemed incredible,—
Of a most angry quarrel—blood—the queen——
KING.
Come you from her?
MARQUIS.
I should be horrified
Were not the rumor false: or should perhaps
Your majesty meantime have done some act—
Discoveries of importance I have made,
Which wholly change the aspect of affairs.
KING.
How now?
MARQUIS.
I found an opportunity
To seize your son's portfolio, with his letters,
Which, as I hope, may throw some light——
[He gives the PRINCE's portfolio to the KING.
KING (looks through it eagerly).
A letter
From the emperor, my father. How! a letter
Of which I ne'er remember to have heard.
[He reads it through, puts it aside, and goes
to the other papers.
A drawing of some fortress—detached thoughts
From Tacitus—and what is here? The hand
I surely recognize—it is a lady's.
[He reads it attentively, partly to himself,
and partly aloud.
"This key—the farthest chamber of the queen's
Pavilion!" Ha! what's this? "The voice of love,—
The timid lover—may—a rich reward."
Satanic treachery! I see it now.
'Tis she—'tis her own writing!
MARQUIS.
The queen's writing!
Impossible!
KING.
The Princess Eboli's.
MARQUIS.
Then, it was true, what the queen's page confessed,
Not long since—that he brought this key and letter.
KING (grasping the MARQUIS' hand in great emotion).
Marquis! I see that I'm in dreadful hands.
This woman—I confess it—'twas this woman
Forced the queen's casket: and my first suspicions
Were breathed by her. Who knows how deep the priest
May be engaged in this? I am deceived
By cursed villany.
MARQUIS.
Then it was lucky——
KING.
Marquis! O marquis! I begin to fear
I've wronged my wife.
MARQUIS.
If there exist between
The prince and queen some secret understandings,
They are of other import, rest assured,
Than those they charge her with. I know, for certain,
The prince's prayer to be despatched to Flanders
Was by the queen suggested.
KING.
I have thought so.
MARQUIS.
The queen's ambitious. Dare I speak more fully?
She sees, with some resentment, her high hopes
All disappointed, and herself shut out
From share of empire. Your son's youthful ardor
Offers itself to her far-reaching views,
Her heart! I doubt if she can love.
KING.
Her schemes
Of policy can never make me tremble.
MARQUIS.
Whether the Infant loves her—whether we
Have something worse to fear from him,—are things
Worthy our deep attention. To these points
Our strictest vigilance must be directed.
KING.
You must be pledge for him.
MARQUIS.
And if the king
Esteem me capable of such a task,
I must entreat it be intrusted to me
Wholly without conditions.
KING.
So it shall.
MARQUIS.
That in the steps which I may think required,
I may be thwarted by no coadjutors,
Whatever name they bear.
KING.
I pledge my word
You shall not. You have proved my guardian angel.
How many thanks I owe you for this service!
[LERMA enters—the KING to him.
How did you leave the queen?
LERMA.
But scarce recovered
From her deep swoon.
[He looks at the MARQUIS doubtfully, and exit.
MARQUIS (to the KING, after a pause).
One caution yet seems needful.
The prince may be advised of our design,
For he has many faithful friends in Ghent,
And may have partisans among the rebels.
Fear may incite to desperate resolves;
Therefore I counsel that some speedy means
Be taken to prevent this fatal chance.
KING.
You are quite right—but how?
MARQUIS.
Your majesty
May sign a secret warrant of arrest
And place it in my hands, to be employed,
As may seem needful, in the hour of danger.
[The KING appears thoughtful.
This step must be a most profound state secret
Until——
KING (going to his desk and writing the warrant of arrest).
The kingdom is at stake, and now
The pressing danger sanctions urgent measures.
Here marquis! I need scarcely say—use prudence.
MARQUIS (taking the warrant).
'Tis only for the last extremity.
KING (laying his hand on the shoulder of the MARQUIS).
Go! Go, dear marquis! Give this bosom peace,
And bring back slumber to my sleepless pillow.
[Exeunt at different sides.
SCENE XIII.
A Gallery.
CARLOS entering in extreme agitation, COUNT LERMA
meeting him.
CARLOS.
I have been seeking you.
LERMA.
And I your highness.
CARLOS.
For heaven's sake is it true?
LERMA.
What do you mean?
CARLOS.
That the king drew his dagger, and that she
Was borne, all bathed in blood, from the apartment?
Now answer me, by all that's sacred; say,
What am I to believe? What truth is in it?
LERMA.
She fainted, and so grazed her skin in falling
That is the whole.
CARLOS.
Is there no further danger?
Count, answer on your honor.
LERMA.
For the queen
No further danger; for yourself, there's much!
CARLOS.
None for my mother. Then, kind Heaven, I thank thee.
A dreadful rumor reached me that the king
Raved against child and mother, and that some
Dire secret was discovered.
LERMA.
And the last
May possibly be true.
CARLOS.
Be true! What mean you?
LERMA.
One warning have I given you, prince, already,
And that to-day, but you despised it; now
Perhaps you'll profit better by a second.
CARLOS.
Explain yourself.
LERMA.
If I mistake not, prince,
A few days since I noticed in your hands
An azure-blue portfolio, worked in velvet
And chased with gold.
CARLOS (with anxiety).
Yes, I had such a one.
LERMA.
And on the cover, if I recollect, a portrait
Set in pearls?
CARLOS.
'Tis right; go on.
LERMA.
I entered the king's chamber on a sudden,
And in his hands I marked that same portfolio,
The Marquis Posa standing by his side.
CARLOS (after a short silence of astonishment, hastily).
'Tis false!
LERMA (warmly).
Then I'm a traitor!
CARLOS (looking steadfastly at him).
That you are!
LERMA.
Well, I forgive you.
CARLOS (paces the apartment in extreme agitation, at length
stands still before him).
Has he injured thee?
What have our guiltless ties of friendship done,
That with a demon's zeal thou triest to rend them?
LERMA.
Prince, I respect the grief which renders you
So far unjust.
CARLOS.
Heaven shield me from suspicion!
LERMA.
And I remember, too, the king's own words.
Just as I entered he addressed the marquis:
"How many thanks I owe you for this news."
CARLOS.
Oh, say no more!
LERMA.
Duke Alva is disgraced!
The great seal taken from the Prince Ruy Gomez,
And given to the marquis.
CARLOS (lost in deep thought).
And from me
Has he concealed all this? And why from me?
LERMA.
As minister all-powerful, the court
Looks on him now—as favorite unrivalled!
CARLOS.
He loved me—loved me greatly: I was dear
As his own soul is to him. That I know—
Of that I've had a thousand proofs. But should
The happiness of millions yield to one?
Must not his country dearer to him prove
Than Carlos? One friend only is too few
For his capacious heart. And not enough
Is Carlos' happiness to engross his love.
He offers me a sacrifice to virtue;
And shall I murmur at him? Now 'tis certain
I have forever lost him.
[He steps aside and covers his face.
LERMA.
Dearest prince!
How can I serve you?
CARLOS (without looking at him).
Get you to the king;
Go and betray me. I have naught to give.
LERMA.
Will you then stay and brave the ill that follows?
CARLOS (leans on a balustrade and looks forward with a vacant gaze).
I've lost him now, and I am destitute!
LERMA (approaching him with sympathizing emotion).
And will you not consult your safety, prince?
CARLOS.
My safety! Generous man!
LERMA:
And is there, then,
No other person you should tremble for?
CARLOS (starts up).
Heavens! you remind me now. Alas! My mother!
The letter that I gave him—first refused—
Then after, gave him!
[He paces backwards and forwards with agitation,
wringing his hands.
Has she then deserved
This blow from him? He should have spared her, Lerma.
[In a hasty, determined tone.
But I must see her—warn her of her danger—
I must prepare her, Lerma, dearest Lerma!
Whom shall I send? Have I no friend remaining?
Yes! Heaven be praised! I still have one; and now
The worst is over.
[Exit quickly.
LEEMA (follows, and calls after him).
Whither, whither, prince?
CARLOS entering in extreme agitation, COUNT LERMA
meeting him.
CARLOS.
I have been seeking you.
LERMA.
And I your highness.
CARLOS.
For heaven's sake is it true?
LERMA.
What do you mean?
CARLOS.
That the king drew his dagger, and that she
Was borne, all bathed in blood, from the apartment?
Now answer me, by all that's sacred; say,
What am I to believe? What truth is in it?
LERMA.
She fainted, and so grazed her skin in falling
That is the whole.
CARLOS.
Is there no further danger?
Count, answer on your honor.
LERMA.
For the queen
No further danger; for yourself, there's much!
CARLOS.
None for my mother. Then, kind Heaven, I thank thee.
A dreadful rumor reached me that the king
Raved against child and mother, and that some
Dire secret was discovered.
LERMA.
And the last
May possibly be true.
CARLOS.
Be true! What mean you?
LERMA.
One warning have I given you, prince, already,
And that to-day, but you despised it; now
Perhaps you'll profit better by a second.
CARLOS.
Explain yourself.
LERMA.
If I mistake not, prince,
A few days since I noticed in your hands
An azure-blue portfolio, worked in velvet
And chased with gold.
CARLOS (with anxiety).
Yes, I had such a one.
LERMA.
And on the cover, if I recollect, a portrait
Set in pearls?
CARLOS.
'Tis right; go on.
LERMA.
I entered the king's chamber on a sudden,
And in his hands I marked that same portfolio,
The Marquis Posa standing by his side.
CARLOS (after a short silence of astonishment, hastily).
'Tis false!
LERMA (warmly).
Then I'm a traitor!
CARLOS (looking steadfastly at him).
That you are!
LERMA.
Well, I forgive you.
CARLOS (paces the apartment in extreme agitation, at length
stands still before him).
Has he injured thee?
What have our guiltless ties of friendship done,
That with a demon's zeal thou triest to rend them?
LERMA.
Prince, I respect the grief which renders you
So far unjust.
CARLOS.
Heaven shield me from suspicion!
LERMA.
And I remember, too, the king's own words.
Just as I entered he addressed the marquis:
"How many thanks I owe you for this news."
CARLOS.
Oh, say no more!
LERMA.
Duke Alva is disgraced!
The great seal taken from the Prince Ruy Gomez,
And given to the marquis.
CARLOS (lost in deep thought).
And from me
Has he concealed all this? And why from me?
LERMA.
As minister all-powerful, the court
Looks on him now—as favorite unrivalled!
CARLOS.
He loved me—loved me greatly: I was dear
As his own soul is to him. That I know—
Of that I've had a thousand proofs. But should
The happiness of millions yield to one?
Must not his country dearer to him prove
Than Carlos? One friend only is too few
For his capacious heart. And not enough
Is Carlos' happiness to engross his love.
He offers me a sacrifice to virtue;
And shall I murmur at him? Now 'tis certain
I have forever lost him.
[He steps aside and covers his face.
LERMA.
Dearest prince!
How can I serve you?
CARLOS (without looking at him).
Get you to the king;
Go and betray me. I have naught to give.
LERMA.
Will you then stay and brave the ill that follows?
CARLOS (leans on a balustrade and looks forward with a vacant gaze).
I've lost him now, and I am destitute!
LERMA (approaching him with sympathizing emotion).
And will you not consult your safety, prince?
CARLOS.
My safety! Generous man!
LERMA:
And is there, then,
No other person you should tremble for?
CARLOS (starts up).
Heavens! you remind me now. Alas! My mother!
The letter that I gave him—first refused—
Then after, gave him!
[He paces backwards and forwards with agitation,
wringing his hands.
Has she then deserved
This blow from him? He should have spared her, Lerma.
[In a hasty, determined tone.
But I must see her—warn her of her danger—
I must prepare her, Lerma, dearest Lerma!
Whom shall I send? Have I no friend remaining?
Yes! Heaven be praised! I still have one; and now
The worst is over.
[Exit quickly.
LEEMA (follows, and calls after him).
Whither, whither, prince?
SCENE XIV.
The QUEEN, ALVA, DOMINGO.
ALVA.
If we may be permitted, gracious queen——
QUEEN.
What are your wishes?
DOMINGO.
A most true regard
For your high majesty forbids us now
To watch in careless silence an event
Pregnant with danger to your royal safety.
ALVA.
We hasten, by a kind and timely warning,
To counteract a plot that's laid against you.
DOMINGO.
And our warm zeal, and our best services,
To lay before your feet, most gracious queen!
QUEEN (looking at them with astonishment).
Most reverend sir, and you, my noble duke,
You much surprise me. Such sincere attachment,
In truth, I had not hoped for from Domingo,
Nor from Duke Alva. Much I value it.
A plot you mention, menacing my safety—
Dare I inquire by whom——
ALVA.
You will beware a certain Marquis Posa
He has of late been secretly employed
In the king's service.
QUEEN.
With delight I hear
The king has made so excellent a choice.
Report, long since, has spoken of the marquis
As a deserving, great, and virtuous man—
The royal grace was ne'er so well bestowed!
DOMINGO.
So well bestowed! We think far otherwise.
ALVA.
It is no secret now, for what designs
This man has been employed.
QUEEN.
How! What designs?
You put my expectation on the rack.
DOMINGO.
How long is it since last your majesty
Opened your casket?
QUEEN.
Why do you inquire?
DOMINGO.
Did you not miss some articles of value?
QUEEN.
Why these suspicions? What I missed was then
Known to the court! But what of Marquis Posa?
Say, what connection has all this with him?
ALVA.
The closest, please your majesty—the prince
Has lost some papers of importance;
And they were seen this morning with the king
After the marquis had an audience of him.
QUEEN (after some consideration).
This news is strange indeed—inexplicable
To find a foe where I could ne'er have dreamed it,
And two warm friends I knew not I possessed!
[Fixing her eyes steadfastly upon them.
And, to speak truth, I had well nigh imputed
To you the wicked turn my husband served me.
ALVA.
To us!
QUEEN.
To you yourselves!
DOMINGO.
To me! Duke Alva!
QUEEN (her eyes still fastened on them).
I am glad to be so timely made aware
Of my rash judgment—else had I resolved
This very day to beg his majesty
Would bring me face to face with my accusers.
But I'm contented now. I can appeal
To the Duke Alva for his testimony.
ALVA.
For mine? You would not sure do that!
QUEEN.
Why not?
ALVA.
'Twould counteract the services we might
Render in secret to you.
QUEEN.
How! in secret?
[With stern dignity.
I fain would know what secret projects, duke,
Your sovereign's spouse can have to form with you,
Or, priest! with you—her husband should not know?
Think you that I am innocent or guilty?
DOMINGO.
Strange question!
ALVA.
Should the monarch prove unjust—
And at this time——
QUEEN.
Then I must wait for justice
Until it come—and they are happiest far
Whose consciences may calmly wait their right.
[Bows to them and exit. DOMINGO and ALVA exeunt
on the opposite side.
ALVA.
If we may be permitted, gracious queen——
QUEEN.
What are your wishes?
DOMINGO.
A most true regard
For your high majesty forbids us now
To watch in careless silence an event
Pregnant with danger to your royal safety.
ALVA.
We hasten, by a kind and timely warning,
To counteract a plot that's laid against you.
DOMINGO.
And our warm zeal, and our best services,
To lay before your feet, most gracious queen!
QUEEN (looking at them with astonishment).
Most reverend sir, and you, my noble duke,
You much surprise me. Such sincere attachment,
In truth, I had not hoped for from Domingo,
Nor from Duke Alva. Much I value it.
A plot you mention, menacing my safety—
Dare I inquire by whom——
ALVA.
You will beware a certain Marquis Posa
He has of late been secretly employed
In the king's service.
QUEEN.
With delight I hear
The king has made so excellent a choice.
Report, long since, has spoken of the marquis
As a deserving, great, and virtuous man—
The royal grace was ne'er so well bestowed!
DOMINGO.
So well bestowed! We think far otherwise.
ALVA.
It is no secret now, for what designs
This man has been employed.
QUEEN.
How! What designs?
You put my expectation on the rack.
DOMINGO.
How long is it since last your majesty
Opened your casket?
QUEEN.
Why do you inquire?
DOMINGO.
Did you not miss some articles of value?
QUEEN.
Why these suspicions? What I missed was then
Known to the court! But what of Marquis Posa?
Say, what connection has all this with him?
ALVA.
The closest, please your majesty—the prince
Has lost some papers of importance;
And they were seen this morning with the king
After the marquis had an audience of him.
QUEEN (after some consideration).
This news is strange indeed—inexplicable
To find a foe where I could ne'er have dreamed it,
And two warm friends I knew not I possessed!
[Fixing her eyes steadfastly upon them.
And, to speak truth, I had well nigh imputed
To you the wicked turn my husband served me.
ALVA.
To us!
QUEEN.
To you yourselves!
DOMINGO.
To me! Duke Alva!
QUEEN (her eyes still fastened on them).
I am glad to be so timely made aware
Of my rash judgment—else had I resolved
This very day to beg his majesty
Would bring me face to face with my accusers.
But I'm contented now. I can appeal
To the Duke Alva for his testimony.
ALVA.
For mine? You would not sure do that!
QUEEN.
Why not?
ALVA.
'Twould counteract the services we might
Render in secret to you.
QUEEN.
How! in secret?
[With stern dignity.
I fain would know what secret projects, duke,
Your sovereign's spouse can have to form with you,
Or, priest! with you—her husband should not know?
Think you that I am innocent or guilty?
DOMINGO.
Strange question!
ALVA.
Should the monarch prove unjust—
And at this time——
QUEEN.
Then I must wait for justice
Until it come—and they are happiest far
Whose consciences may calmly wait their right.
[Bows to them and exit. DOMINGO and ALVA exeunt
on the opposite side.
SCENE XV.
Chamber Of PRINCESS EBOLI.
PRINCESS EBOLI. CARLOS immediately after.
EBOLI.
Is it then true—the strange intelligence,
That fills the court with wonder?
CARLOS (enters).
Do not fear
Princess! I shall be gentle as a child.
EBOLI.
Prince, this intrusion!
CARLOS.
Are you angry still?
Offended still with me——
EBOLI.
Prince!
CARLOS (earnestly).
Are you angry?
I pray you answer me.
EBOLI.
What can this mean?
You seem, prince, to forget—what would you with me?
CARLOS (seizing her hand with warmth).
Dear maiden! Can you hate eternally?
Can injured love ne'er pardon?
EBOLI (disengaging herself).
Prince! of what
Would you remind me?
CARLOS.
Of your kindness, dearest!
And of my deep ingratitude. Alas,
Too well I know it! deeply have I wronged thee—
Wounded thy tender heart, and from thine eyes,
Thine angel eyes, wrung precious tears, sweet maid!
But ah! 'tis not repentance leads me hither.
EBOLI.
Prince! leave me—I——
CARLOS.
I come to thee, because
Thou art a maid of gentle soul—because
I trust thy heart—thy kind and tender heart.
Think, dearest maiden! think, I have no friend,
No friend but thee, in all this wretched world—
Thou who wert once so kind wilt not forever
Hate me, nor will thy anger prove eternal.
EBOLI (turning away her face).
O cease! No more! for heaven's sake! leave me, prince.
CARLOS.
Let me remind thee of those golden hours—
Let me remind thee of thy love, sweet maid—
That love which I so basely have offended!
Oh, let me now appear to thee again
As once I was—and as thy heart portrayed me.
Yet once again, once only, place my image,
As in days past, before thy tender soul,
And to that idol make a sacrifice
Thou canst not make to me.
EBOLI.
Oh, Carlos, cease!
Too cruelly thou sportest with my feelings!
CARLOS.
Be nobler than thy sex! Forgive an insult!
Do what no woman e'er has done before thee,
And what no woman, after thee, can equal.
I ask of thee an unexampled favor.
Grant me—upon my knees I ask of thee
Grant me two moments with the queen, my mother!
[He casts himself at her feet.
PRINCESS EBOLI. CARLOS immediately after.
EBOLI.
Is it then true—the strange intelligence,
That fills the court with wonder?
CARLOS (enters).
Do not fear
Princess! I shall be gentle as a child.
EBOLI.
Prince, this intrusion!
CARLOS.
Are you angry still?
Offended still with me——
EBOLI.
Prince!
CARLOS (earnestly).
Are you angry?
I pray you answer me.
EBOLI.
What can this mean?
You seem, prince, to forget—what would you with me?
CARLOS (seizing her hand with warmth).
Dear maiden! Can you hate eternally?
Can injured love ne'er pardon?
EBOLI (disengaging herself).
Prince! of what
Would you remind me?
CARLOS.
Of your kindness, dearest!
And of my deep ingratitude. Alas,
Too well I know it! deeply have I wronged thee—
Wounded thy tender heart, and from thine eyes,
Thine angel eyes, wrung precious tears, sweet maid!
But ah! 'tis not repentance leads me hither.
EBOLI.
Prince! leave me—I——
CARLOS.
I come to thee, because
Thou art a maid of gentle soul—because
I trust thy heart—thy kind and tender heart.
Think, dearest maiden! think, I have no friend,
No friend but thee, in all this wretched world—
Thou who wert once so kind wilt not forever
Hate me, nor will thy anger prove eternal.
EBOLI (turning away her face).
O cease! No more! for heaven's sake! leave me, prince.
CARLOS.
Let me remind thee of those golden hours—
Let me remind thee of thy love, sweet maid—
That love which I so basely have offended!
Oh, let me now appear to thee again
As once I was—and as thy heart portrayed me.
Yet once again, once only, place my image,
As in days past, before thy tender soul,
And to that idol make a sacrifice
Thou canst not make to me.
EBOLI.
Oh, Carlos, cease!
Too cruelly thou sportest with my feelings!
CARLOS.
Be nobler than thy sex! Forgive an insult!
Do what no woman e'er has done before thee,
And what no woman, after thee, can equal.
I ask of thee an unexampled favor.
Grant me—upon my knees I ask of thee
Grant me two moments with the queen, my mother!
[He casts himself at her feet.
SCENE XVI.
The former. MARQUIS POSA rushes in; behind him two
Officers of the Queen's Guard.
MARQUIS (breathless and agitated, rushing between CARLOS and
the PRINCESS).
Say, what has he confessed? Believe him not!
CARLOS (still on his knees, with loud voice).
By all that's holy——
MARQUIS (interrupting him with vehemence).
He is mad! He raves!
Oh, listen to him not!
CARLOS (louder and more urgent).
It is a question
Of life and death; conduct me to her straight.
MARQUIS (dragging the PRINCESS from him by force).
You die, if you but listen.
[To one of the officers, showing an order.
Count of Cordova!
In the king's name, Prince Carlos is your prisoner.
[CARLOS stands bewildered. The PRINCESS utters a cry of
horror, and tries to escape. The officers are astounded.
A long and deep pause ensues. The MARQUIS trembles violently,
and with difficulty preserves his composure.
[To the PRINCE.
I beg your sword—The Princess Eboli
Remains——
[To the officers.
And you, on peril of your lives,
Let no one with his highness speak—no person—
Not e'en yourselves.
[He whispers a few words to one officer, then turns to the other.
I hasten, instantly,
To cast myself before our monarch's feet,
And justify this step——
[To the PRINCE.
And prince! for you—
Expect me in an hour.
[CARLOS permits himself to be led away without any signs
of consciousness, except that in passing he casts a languid,
dying look on the MARQUIS. The PRINCESS endeavors again to
escape; the MARQUIS pulls her back by the arm.
Officers of the Queen's Guard.
MARQUIS (breathless and agitated, rushing between CARLOS and
the PRINCESS).
Say, what has he confessed? Believe him not!
CARLOS (still on his knees, with loud voice).
By all that's holy——
MARQUIS (interrupting him with vehemence).
He is mad! He raves!
Oh, listen to him not!
CARLOS (louder and more urgent).
It is a question
Of life and death; conduct me to her straight.
MARQUIS (dragging the PRINCESS from him by force).
You die, if you but listen.
[To one of the officers, showing an order.
Count of Cordova!
In the king's name, Prince Carlos is your prisoner.
[CARLOS stands bewildered. The PRINCESS utters a cry of
horror, and tries to escape. The officers are astounded.
A long and deep pause ensues. The MARQUIS trembles violently,
and with difficulty preserves his composure.
[To the PRINCE.
I beg your sword—The Princess Eboli
Remains——
[To the officers.
And you, on peril of your lives,
Let no one with his highness speak—no person—
Not e'en yourselves.
[He whispers a few words to one officer, then turns to the other.
I hasten, instantly,
To cast myself before our monarch's feet,
And justify this step——
[To the PRINCE.
And prince! for you—
Expect me in an hour.
[CARLOS permits himself to be led away without any signs
of consciousness, except that in passing he casts a languid,
dying look on the MARQUIS. The PRINCESS endeavors again to
escape; the MARQUIS pulls her back by the arm.