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 What is it to you that he causes twenty heads to fall in a day? And talk not to me of the Prince of Spain. You care nought for him. Talk not to me of the displeasure of M. de Noailles, the French ambassador. M. de Noailles is a fool, and I will tell him so to his beard. Besides, I am a woman, I will and I will not, I am not always the same. That man's life is necessary to my life. Nay, take not on that air of virginal innocence and candour, I beseech you. I know all your intrigues. Between ourselves, you know, as well as I, that he did not commit the crime for which he is sentenced to die. It was arranged. I do not choose that Fabiani shall die. Am I mistress or am I not?—Master Renard, let us talk of other things, if such is your pleasure.

Renard.I retire, Madame. All your nobility have spoken to you through my mouth.

The Queen.What's my nobility to me?

Renard [aside.]We must try the people.

[Exit, with a low bow.

The Queen [alone.]He had a strange look when he left me. That man is capable of arousing sedition. I must hasten to the Guildhall.—Without there, ho!

[Enter and.

The Queen.'Tis you, Master Æneas? You and this man must look to it that the Earl of Clanbrassil make his escape instantly.

Master Æneas.Your Majesty—

The Queen.Ah! I do not trust you; I remember that you are of his enemies. Just Heaven! Am I