Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/320

 Richard.My father sleeps. Cromwell [aside.] He sleeps! Richard. He nought suspects. Cromwell [aside.]He's wide awake and listening to thee! Richard [laughing.]I shall entrap him shrewdly. Cromwell [aside.] What a laugh, And what a crime! the villain comes to ask: "Is 't done?" Suppose I take upon myself The duty of chastising him? Richard [laughing.] Come, courage! To-morrow, when they find the bird has flown, How great will be the Saints' discomfiture! Cromwell [aside.]If I should poniard him with my own hand?

He is my son! Richard. Our Cavaliers will laugh Till they are like to burst, at th' escapade. Cromwell [aside.]He flaunts my very blood before my face!
 * [He takes another step.

I'll strike! Richard. A lucky ending, by my faith. Cromwell [aside.]'Tis true! Richard. My father ne'er would have consented To pardon me, I fear. But by this means His anger I escape. Cromwell [aside.] Nay, thou shalt not Escape it, traitor! I must strike him down! No pity!
 * [He steps toward , then hesitates.