Page:MaryTudorHugo.djvu/48

 are, and who is false to you, and who has for her lover one Fabiano, who is false to me. You would fain be avenged, and so would I. To that end I must be able to dispose of your life at my pleasure. You must say what I order you to say, whatever it may be. Henceforth there must be for you neither false nor true, neither good nor evil, neither just nor unjust—nought save my vengeance and my will. You must let me act and you must let yourself be acted upon. Do you consent?

Gilbert.Your Majesty—

The Queen.Revenge you shall have. But I forewarn you that you must die—that is all. Make your conditions. If you have an aged mother, and I must cover her table-cloth with gold ingots, speak, and I will do it. Sell me your life as dearly as you will.

Gilbert.I am no longer determined to die.

The Queen.How now!

Gilbert.Your Majesty, I reflected all night. As yet I have had no proof of anything. I saw a man who boasted of being Jane's lover. Who can say that he did not lie? I saw a key. Who can say that he did not steal it? I saw a letter. Who can say that she was not forced to write it? Moreover, I am no longer sure that 'twas her hand: it was dark, I was disturbed, I could not see clearly. I cannot give up my life, which is hers, like this. I believe nothing, I am sure of nothing. I have not seen Jane.

The Queen.'Tis plain that you love truly. You are like me, you deny all proofs. But if you do see her, this Jane, if you hear her confess her fault, then will you do what I wish?