Part 320 (1/2)
[She recognizes the miniature, and remains in speechless astonishment. They both gaze at each other. After a long pause.
In truth, this mode of trying a wife's heart Is great and royal, sire! But I should wish To ask one question?
KING.
'Tis for me to question.
QUEEN.
Let my suspicions spare the innocent.
And if by your command this theft was done----
KING.
It was so done!
QUEEN.
Then I have none to blame, And none to pity--other than yourself-- Since you possess a wife on whom such schemes Are thrown away.
KING.
This language is not new-- Nor shall you, madam, now again deceive me As in the gardens of Aranjuez-- My queen of angel purity, who then So haughtily my accusation spurned-- I know her better now.
QUEEN.
What mean you, sire?
KING.
Madam! thus briefly and without reserve-- Say is it true? still true, that you conversed With no one there? Is really that the truth?
QUEEN.
I spoke there with the prince.
KING.
Then is clear As day! So daring! heedless of mine honor!
QUEEN.
Your honor, sire! If that be now the question, A greater honor is, methinks, at stake Than Castile ever brought me as a dowry.
KING.
Why did you then deny the prince's presence?
QUEEN.
Because I'm not accustomed to be questioned Like a delinquent before all your courtiers; I never shall deny the truth when asked With kindness and respect. Was that the tone Your majesty used towards me in Aranjuez?
Are your a.s.sembled grandees the tribunal Queens must account to for their private conduct?
I gave the prince the interview he sought With earnest prayer, because, my liege and lord, I--the queen--wished and willed it, and because I never can admit that formal custom Should sit as judge on actions that are guiltless; And I concealed it from your majesty Because I chose not to contend with you About this right in presence of your courtiers.
KING.
You speak with boldness, madam!
QUEEN.
I may add, Because the prince, in his own father's heart, Scarce finds that kindness he so well deserves.
KING.
So well deserves!