Part 302 (1/2)

CARLOS.

The duke sets out to-morrow. That is fixed.

MARQUIS.

That cannot be--it is not surely so.

Can all Madrid be so deceived? 'Tis said You had a private audience, and the king----

CARLOS.

Remained inflexible, and we are now Divided more than ever.

MARQUIS.

Do you go To Flanders?

CARLOS.

No!

MARQUIS.

Alas! my blighted hopes!

CARLOS.

Of this hereafter. Oh, Roderigo! since We parted last, what have I not endured?

But first thy counsel? I must speak with her!

MARQUIS.

Your mother? No! But wherefore?

CARLOS.

I have hopes-- But you turn pale! Be calm--I should be happy.

And I shall be so: but of this anon-- Advise me now, how I may speak with her.

MARQUIS.

What mean you? What new feverish dream is this?

CARLOS.

By the great G.o.d of wonders 'tis no dream!

'Tis truth, reality---- [Taking out the KING's letter to the PRINCESS EBOLI.

Contained in this Important paper--yes, the queen is free,-- Free before men and in the eyes of heaven; There read, and cease to wonder at my words.

MARQUIS (opening the letter).

What do I here behold? The king's own hand!

[After he has read it.

To whom addressed?

CARLOS.

To Princess Eboli.

Two days ago, a page who serves the queen, Brought me, from unknown hands, a key and letter, Which said that in the left wing of the palace, Where the queen lodges, lay a cabinet,-- That there a lady whom I long had loved Awaited me. I straight obeyed the summons.

MARQUIS.

Fool! madman! you obeyed it----

CARLOS.

Not that I The writing knew; but there was only one Such woman, who could think herself adored By Carlos. With delight intoxicate I hastened to the spot. A heavenly song, Re-echoing from the innermost apartment, Served me for guide. I reached the cabinet-- I entered and beheld--conceive my wonder!