Part 420 (1/2)

DUNOIS.

Up! forth to meet him!

[Exit with LA HIRE and CHATILLON.

CHARLES (to SOREL).

My Agnes! thou dost weep! Even my strength Doth almost fail me at this interview.

How many victims have been doomed to fall Ere we could meet in peace and reconcilement!

But every storm at length suspends its rage, Day follows on the murkiest night; and still When comes the hour, the latest fruits mature!

ARCHBISHOP (at the window).

The thronging crowds impede the duke's advance; He scarce can free himself. They lift him now From off his horse; they kiss his spurs, his mantle.

CHARLES.

They're a good people, in whom love flames forth As suddenly as wrath. In how brief s.p.a.ce They do forget that 'tis this very duke Who slew, in fight, their fathers and their sons; The moment swallows up the whole of life!

Be tranquil, Sorel. E'en thy pa.s.sionate joy Perchance might to his conscience prove a thorn.

Nothing should either shame or grieve him here.

SCENE III.

The DUKE OF BURGUNDY, DUNOIS, LA HIRE, CHATILLON, and two other knights of the DUKE'S train. The DUKE remains standing at the door; the KING inclines towards him; BURGUNDY immediately advances, and in the moment when he is about to throw himself upon his knees, the KING receives him in his arms.

CHARLES.

You have surprised us; it was our intent To fetch you hither, but your steeds are fleet.

BURGUNDY.

They bore me to my duty.

[He embraces SOREL, and kisses her brow.

With your leave!

At Arras, niece, it is our privilege, And no fair damsel may exemption claim.

CHARLES.

Rumor doth speak your court the seat of love, The mart where all that's beautiful must tarry.

BURGUNDY.

We are a traffic-loving people, sire; Whate'er of costly earth's wide realms produce, For show and for enjoyment, is displayed Upon our mart at Bruges; but above all There woman's beauty is pre-eminent.

SOREL.

More precious far is woman's truth; but it Appeareth not upon the public mart.

CHARLES.

Kinsman, 'tis rumored to your prejudice That woman's fairest virtue you despise.

BURGUNDY.

The heresy inflicteth on itself The heaviest penalty. 'Tis well for you, From your own heart, my king, you learned betimes What a wild life hath late revealed to me.

[He perceives the ARCHBISHOP, and extends his hand.

Most reverend minister of G.o.d! your blessing!