Part 312 (2/2)
KING (with a serious look).
That am I not--and never, till this hour, Have I so deeply felt that I am not so.
[Contemplating the MARQUIS with a look of melancholy.
MARQUIS.
The prince possesses a right n.o.ble mind.
I ne'er have known him otherwise.
KING.
I have The treasure he has robbed me of, no crown Can e'er requite. So virtuous a queen!
MARQUIS.
Who dare a.s.sert it, sire?
KING.
The world! and scandal!
And I myself! Here lie the d.a.m.ning proofs Of doubtless guilt--and others, too, exist, From which I fear the worst. But still 'tis hard To trust one proof alone. Who brings the charge?
And oh! if this were possible--that she, The queen, so foully could pollute her honor, Then how much easier were it to believe An Eboli may be a slanderer!
Does not that priest detest my son and her?
And can I doubt that Alva broods revenge?
My wife has higher worth than all together.
MARQUIS.
And there exists besides in woman's soul A treasure, sire, beyond all outward show, Above the reach of slander--female virtue!
KING.
Marquis! those thoughts are mine. It costs too much To sink so low as they accuse the queen.
The sacred ties of honor are not broken With so much ease, as some would fain persuade me.
Marquis, you know mankind. Just such a man As you I long have wished for--you are kind-- Cheerful--and deeply versed in human nature-- Therefore I've chosen you----
MARQUIS (surprised and alarmed).
Me, sire!
KING.
You stand Before your king and ask no special favor-- For yourself nothing!--that is new to me-- You will be just--ne'er weakly swayed by pa.s.sion.
Watch my son close--search the queen's inmost heart.
You shall have power to speak with her in private.
Retire.
[He rings a bell.
MARQUIS.
And if with but one hope fulfilled I now depart, then is this day indeed The happiest of my life.
KING (holds out his hand to him to kiss).
I hold it not Amongst my days a lost one.
[The MARQUIS rises and goes. COUNT LERMA enters.
Count, in future, The marquis is to enter, unannounced.
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