Part 329 (1/2)

QUEEN.

That Carlos is arrested--and they add, By you! Is it then true? From no one else Would I believe it but yourself.

MARQUIS.

'Tis true.

QUEEN.

By you?

MARQUIS.

By me?

QUEEN (looks at him for some time doubtingly).

I still respect your actions E'en when I comprehend them not. In this Pardon a timid woman! I much fear You play a dangerous game.

MARQUIS.

And I have lost it.

QUEEN.

Merciful heaven!

MARQUIS.

Queen, fear not! He is safe, But I am lost myself.

QUEEN.

What do I hear?

MARQUIS.

Who bade me hazard all on one chance throw?

All? And with rash, foolhardy confidence, Sport with the power of heaven? Of bounded mind, Man, who is not omniscient, must not dare To guide the helm of destiny. 'Tis just!

But why these thoughts of self. This hour is precious As life can be to man: and who can tell Whether the parsimonious hand of fate May not have measured my last drops of life.

QUEEN.

The hand of fate! What means this solemn tone?

I understand these words not--but I shudder.

MARQUIS.

He's saved! no matter at what price--he's saved!

But only for to-day--a few short hours Are his. Oh, let him husband them! This night The prince must leave Madrid.

QUEEN.

This very night?

MARQUIS.

All measures are prepared. The post will meet him At the Carthusian convent, which has served So long as an asylum to our friends.h.i.+p.

Here will he find, in letters of exchange, All in the world that fortune gifts me with.

Should more be wanting, you must e'en supply it.

In truth, I have within my heart full much To unburden to my Carlos--it may chance I shall want leisure now to tell him all In person--but this evening you will see him, And therefore I address myself to you.

QUEEN.

Oh, for my peace of mind, dear marquis, speak!