Page:Passions 2.pdf/271

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Hex. Saint Alban will protect yon, gracious queen. Trust me, his love for pious Oswal's daughter Will guard you in the hour of danger. Hark! The king approaches.(flourish of trumpets.)

Qu. Yes, at this hour he will receive in state The bold address of those seditious Thanes, Clam'ring for peace, when fair occasion smiles, And beckons him to arm and follow her.

Hex. We know it well; of whom Thane Ethelbert, In secret is the chief, although young Hereulf Is by him tutor'd in the spokesman's office.

''Qu. (presenting Alwy to'' Ethw.) My Lord, a humble culprit at your feet, Supported by my favour, craves forgiveness.

Ethw. I grant his suit, supported by the favour Of that warm sense I wear within my breast Of his well meaning zeal. (looking contemptuously at the Queen, who turns haughtily away.) But wherefore Alwy Didst thou not boldly come to me at first And tell thy fault? Might not thy former services Out-balance well a greater crime than this?

Alwy. I so, indeed, had done, but a shrewd Thane, Of mind revengeful and most penetrating, Teaches us caution in whate'er regards His dealings with the state. I fear the man.