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Enter, followed by and , going up to the , who rises to meet him.

Thou too, my valiant friend, a suitor here?

A humble supplicant.

Who needs not sue. Say freely what thou would'st, and it is granted.

But what I beg, an earnest boon, must be Confirm'd to me with all solemnity, Before I utter it.

A strange request! But that thy services have been to me Beyond all recompense, and that I know Thy country's welfare and thy sovereign's honour Are dear to thee, as thou full well hast proved, I should with some precaution give my word. But be it so; I say thy suit is granted.

Nay, swear it on this sword.

Where doth this tend? Doubt'st thou my royal word?