Part 393 (1/2)

Melvil, sure, The ancient steward?

MELVIL.

Yes, the same.

CURL.

Oh, sir, This is a house which needs no steward now!

Melvil, you come from London; can you give No tidings of my husband?

MELVIL.

It is said He will be set at liberty as soon----

CURL.

As soon as our dear queen shall be no more.

Oh, the unworthy, the disgraceful traitor!

He is our lady's murderer--'tis said It was his testimony which condemned him.

MELVIL.

'Tis true.

CURL.

Oh, curse upon him! Be his soul Condemned forever! he has borne false witness.

MELVIL.

Think, madam, what you say.

CURL.

I will maintain it With every sacred oath before the court, I will repeat it in his very face; The world shall hear of nothing else. I say That she dies innocent!

MELVIL..

G.o.d grant it true!

[1] The doc.u.ment is now in the British Museum.

SCENE III.

Enter HANNAH KENNEDY.

KENNEDY (to CURL).

Go, madam, and require a cup of wine-- 'Tis for our lady.

MELVIL.

Is the queen then sick?

KENNEDY.

She thinks that she is strong; she is deceived By her heroic courage; she believes She has no need of nourishment; yet still A hard and painful task's allotted her.