Part 229 (1/2)

SCENE IX.

COUNTESS, GORDON.

GORDON (rushes in out of breath) 'Tis a mistake!

'Tis not the Swedes; ye must proceed no further-- Butler! Oh, G.o.d! where is he?

[Observing the COUNTESS.

Countess! Say----

COUNTESS.

You're come then from the castle? Where's my husband?

GORDON (in an agony of affright).

Your husband! Ask not! To the duke----

COUNTESS.

Not till You have discovered to me----

GORDON.

On this moment Does the world hang. For G.o.d's sake! to the duke.

While we are speaking---- [Calling loudly.

Butler! Butler! G.o.d!

COUNTESS.

Why, he is at the castle with my husband.

[BUTLER comes from the gallery.

GORDON.

'Twas a mistake. 'Tis not the Swedes--it is The imperialists' lieutenant-general Has sent me hither--will be here himself Instantly. You must not proceed.

BUTLER.

He comes Too late.

[GORDON dashes himself against the wall.

GORDON.

Oh, G.o.d of mercy!

COUNTESS.

What, too late?

Who will be here himself? Octavio In Egra? Treason! Treason! Where's the duke?

[She rushes to the gallery.

SCENE X.

Servants run across the stage full of terror. The whole scene must be spoken entirely without pauses.