MARQUIS.
Yes, I maintain it all, Because I spoke with him.
QUEEN (after a pause).
The daring plan Alarms and pleases me. You may be right-- The thought is bold, and that perhaps enchants me.
Let it but ripen. Does Prince Carlos know it?
MARQUIS.
It was my wish that he should hear it first From your own lips.
QUEEN.
The plan is doubtless good, But then the prince"s youth----
MARQUIS.
No disadvantage!
He there will find the bravest generals Of the Emperor Charles--an Egmont and an Orange-- In battle daring, and in council wise.
QUEEN (with vivacity).
True--the design is grand and beautiful!
The prince must act; I feel it sensibly.
The part he"s doomed to play here in Madrid Has bowed me to the dust on his account.
I promise him the aid of France and Savoy; I think with you, lord marquis--he must act-- But this design needs money----
MARQUIS.
It is ready.
QUEEN.
I, too, know means.
MARQUIS.
May I then give him hopes Of seeing you?
QUEEN.
I will consider it.
MARQUIS.
The prince, my queen, is urgent for an answer.
I promised to procure it.
[Presenting his writing tablet to the QUEEN.
Two short lines Will be enough.
QUEEN (after she has written).
When do we meet again?
MARQUIS.
Whene"er you wish.
QUEEN.
Whene"er I wish it, marquis!
How can I understand this privilege?
MARQUIS.
As innocently, queen, as e"er you may.
But we enjoy it--that is sure enough.
QUEEN (interrupting).
How will my heart rejoice should this become A refuge for the liberties of Europe, And this through him! Count on my silent aid!
MARQUIS (with animation).
Right well I knew your heart would understand me.
[The d.u.c.h.eSS OLIVAREZ enters.
QUEEN (coldly to the MARQUIS).
My lord! the king"s commands I shall respect As law. a.s.sure him of the queen"s submission.
[She makes a sign to him. Exit MARQUIS.
SCENE IV.
A Gallery.
DON CARLOS, COUNT LERMA.
CARLOS.
Here we are undisturbed. What would you now Impart to me?
LERMA.
Your highness has a friend Here at the court.
CARLOS (starting).
A friend! I knew it not!
But what"s your meaning?
LERMA.
I must sue for pardon That I am learned in more than I should know.
But for your highness" comfort I"ve received it From one I may depend upon--in short, I have it from myself.
CARLOS.
Whom speak you of?
LERMA.
The Marquis Posa.
CARLOS.
What!
LERMA.