Part 327 (1/2)

[Remains doubtingly in this position.

EBOLI (having sunk down beside him, looks in his face).

Do not delay-- Why do you hesitate? I beg no mercy-- I have deserved to die, and I am ready.

MARQUIS (letting his hand drop slowly--after some reflection).

It were as cowardly as barbarous.

No! G.o.d be praised! another way is left.

[He lets the dagger fall and hurries out. The PRINCESS hastens out through another door.

SCENE XVIII.

A Chamber of the QUEEN.

The QUEEN to the COUNTESS FUENTES.

What means this noisy tumult in the palace?

Each breath to-day alarms me! Countess! see What it portends, and hasten back with speed.

[Exit COUNTESS FUENTES--the PRINCESS EBOLI rushes in.

SCENE XIX.

The QUEEN, PRINCESS EBOLI.

EBOLI (breathless, pale, and wild, falls before the QUEEN).

Help! Help! O Queen! he's seized!

QUEEN.

Who?

EBOLI.

He's arrested By the king's orders given to Marquis Posa.

QUEEN.

Who is arrested? Who?

EBOLI.

The prince!

QUEEN.

Thou ravest

EBOLI.

This moment they are leading him away.

QUEEN.

And who arrested him?

EBOLI.

The Marquis Posa.