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 weep as I do, and I would pardon. Pardon, your Majesty! Oh! this is what I feared, that tears would prevent my speaking. Oh! instantly! Delay the execution. That can do no harm. No danger for Fabiano, I swear. Can it be that your Majesty does not see that you must do what I say?

The Queen [moved and rising.]I would gladly do it, unhappy child! Ah, yes! you weep as I wept; what you are suffering I have suffered; my agony makes me compassionate to yours. See, I, too, am weeping. It is most unfortunate, poor child! Surely it seems that we might have taken some other—Tyrconnel, for example; but he is too well known, we required an unknown man. We had no other at hand but this one. I explain it so that you may understand, you see. Good lack! such fatalities do occur. One finds one's self ensnared. One can do nought.

Jane.I listen to your Majesty. I, too, might say certain things to you. But I would have the order to delay the execution signed and the messenger despatched. That would be something done, you see. We can talk better afterward.—Oh! that bell! always that bell!

The Queen.What you wish is impossible, Lady Jane.

Jane.Nay, it is possible. A mounted man. There is a very short way—by the river-bank. I would go myself. 'Tis easily done. You see that I speak mildly.

The Queen.But the people would not consent. They would return and murder everybody in the Tower. And Fabiano is still here. Pray, understand. You tremble, poor child! I am like you: I tremble, likewise. Do you put yourself in my place.