Part 18 (1/2)

_Julia_. I breathe!

I could have sworn 'twas he!

[Makes an effort to look at him, but is unable.]

So like the voice-- I dare not look, lest there the form should stand!

How came he by that voice? 'Tis Clifford's voice, If ever Clifford spoke! My fears come back-- Clifford the secretary of my lord!

Fortune hath freaks, but none so mad as that!

It cannot be!--It should not be!--A look, And all were set at rest.

[Tries to look at him again, but cannot.]

So strong my fears, Dread to confirm them takes away the power To try and end them! Come the worst, I'll look.

[She tries again; and again is unequal to the task.]

I'd sink before him if I met his eye!

_Clif_. Will't please your ladys.h.i.+p to take the letter?

Julia. There Clifford speaks again! Not Clifford's heart Could more make Clifford's voice! Not Clifford's tongue And lips more frame it into Clifford's speech!

A question, and 'tis over! Know I you?

_Clif_. Reverse of fortune, lady, changes friends; It turns them into strangers. What I am I have not always been!

_Julia_. Could I not name you?

_Clif_. If your disdain for one, perhaps too bold When hollow fortune called him favourite,-- Now by her fickleness perforce reduced To take an humble tone, would suffer you--

_Julia_. I might?

_Clif_. You might!

_Julia_. Oh, Clifford! is it you?

_Clif_. Your answer to my lord.

[Gives the letter.]

_Julia_. Your lord!

[Mechanically taking it.]

_Clif_. Wilt write it?

Or, will it please you send a verbal one?

I'll bear it faithfully.

_Julia_. You'll bear it?

_Clif_. Madam, Your pardon, but my haste is somewhat urgent.

My lord's impatient, and to use despatch Were his repeated orders.

_Julia_. Orders? Well, I'll read the letter, sir. 'Tis right you mind His lords.h.i.+p's orders. They are paramount!

Nothing should supersede them!--stand beside them!