Part 441 (1/2)

What? Will she s.n.a.t.c.h from us the victory?

SOLDIER.

She presses forward, right towards the king.

She reaches him--she bears him from the fight-- Lord Fastolfe falls--the general is taken!

ISABEL.

I'll hear no more! Come down!

SOLDIER.

Fly, queen! you will be taken by surprise.

Armed soldiers are advancing tow'rds the tower.

[He comes down.

ISABEL (drawing her sword).

Then fight, ye cowards!

SCENE IV.

LA HIRE with soldiers. At his entrance the people of the QUEEN lay down their arms.

LA HIRE (approaching her respectfully).

Queen, submit yourself-- Your knights have yielded--to resist is vain!

--Accept my proffered services. Command Where you would be conducted.

ISABEL.

Every place The same, where I encounter not the Dauphin.

[She resigns her sword, and follows him with the soldiers.

The Scene changes to the battle-field.

SCENE XIV.

Soldiers with flying banners occupy the background. Before them the KING and the DUKE OF BURGUNDY appear, bearing JOHANNA in their arms; she is mortally wounded, and apparently lifeless. They advance slowly to the front of the stage. AGNES SOREL rushes in.

SOREL (throwing herself on the bosom of the KING).

You're free--you live--I have you back again!

KING.

Yes, I am free--I am so at this price!

[Pointing to JOHANNA.

SOREL.

Johanna! G.o.d! she's dying!

BURGUNDY.

She is gone An angel pa.s.seth hence! See, how she lies, Easy and tranquil, like a sleeping child!

The peace of heaven around her features plays, The breath of life no longer heaves her breast, But vital warmth still lingers in her hand.