Page:Passions 2.pdf/219

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Thus taken as we are, all stand were useless; Therefore if you will still, 'tis the last time, Obey your king, retire and save your lives For some more useful end. Finding me here, They will no farther search: retire, my friends.

Sec. Coun. What, leave our king to face his foes alone!

King. No, not alone; my friend the Seneschal Will stay with me. We have been young together, And the same storms in our rough day of life Have beat upon us: now, be it God's will, We will lay down our aged heads together In the still rest, and bid good night to strife. Have I said well, my friend? (holding out his hand to the Seneschal.)

Sen. (kissing his hand with great warmth, and putting one knee to the ground.) O my lov'd master! many a bounteous favour Has shower'd upon me from your royal hand, But ne'er before was I so proudly honour'd. (rising up with assumed grace.) Retire, young men, for now I must be proud; Retire, your master will confront the foes As may become a king.

(All calling out at once.) No, no! we will not leave him.