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 Milton [continuing. How difficult it is for me to hate This archangel, whose name I would have writ Upon an altar's front! How artfully The man in whom I joyfully adored The living truth, did soothe our fears away! I come to say farewell to thee forever, Thou doomèd king, thou rebel against God, And 'gainst the people!—Take the royalty Of Cæsar and of Guise. The crown is gilding, The dagger sharpening.

This way! Milton [to his Page.]Who comes? The Page. The people, sir. Milton [bitterly.] Ah, yes! The people! Ever guileless, ever dazzled, Hither they come to see their destiny Made a mere toy by others than themselves Upon a stage adorned at their expense. First Citizen.No guards as yet! Second Citizen. By good hap we're the first.