Part 316 (1/2)

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 lords.h.i.+p In future unannounced.

CARLOS.

Astonis.h.i.+ng!

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).