Part 385 (1/2)

LEICESTER.

What's that to me?

MORTIMER.

They know, too, That the a.s.sa.s.sin----

LEICESTER.

That is your affair-- Audacious wretch! to dare to mix my name In your detested outrage: go; defend Your b.l.o.o.d.y deeds yourself!

MORTIMER.

But only hear me.

LEICESTER (violently enraged).

Down, down to h.e.l.l! Why cling you at my heels Like an infernal spirit! I disclaim you; I know you not; I make no common cause With murderers!

MORTIMER.

You will not hear me, then!

I came to warn you; you too are detected.

LEICESTER.

How! What?

MORTIMER.

Lord Burleigh went to Fotheringay Just as the luckless deed had been attempted; Searched with strict scrutiny the queen's apartments, And found there----

LEICESTER.

What?

MORTIMER.

A letter which the queen Had just addressed to you----

LEICESTER.

Unhappy woman!

MORTIMER.

In which she calls on you to keep your word, Renews the promise of her hand, and mentions The picture which she sent you.

LEICESTER.

Death and h.e.l.l!

MORTIMER.

Lord Burleigh has the letter.

LEICESTER.

I am lost!

[During the following speech of MORTIMER, LEICESTER goes up and down as in despair.