Page:Passions 2.pdf/237

Rh

''Eth. (flourish of trumpets.)'' Sweet maid retire.

Berth. Nay, nay! I will not go: there be without Those who will frown upon me.

''Eth. (endeavouring to lead her off.)'' I pray thee be entreated! Berth. Ye shall not force me! Wist ye who I am? The whirlwind in its strength contends with me, And I o'ermaster it.

Eth. Stand round her then, I pray you, gentle ladies! The king must not behold her. (the Ladies gather round Bertha and conceal her.)

''Ethw. (after returning the obeisance of the assembly.)'' This gay and fair attendance on our person And on our queen, most honour'd lords and dames, We much regard; and could my heart express— (Bertha hearing his voice shrieks out.) What cry is that?

Dwi. Regard it not: it is a wand'ring maid, Distracted in her mind, who is in search, As she conceits it, of some faithless lover. She sings sweet songs of wildest harmony, And at the queen's command we led her in.

Ethw. Seeking her love! distracted in her mind! Have any of my followers wrong'd her? Speak!