Scene 2.
A street in London. Citizens, friars, priests, pass in devout manner, some bearing crucifixes.
First Cit. A day, a day, O, such a day!
Second Cit. 'Twill make a new page in our chronicles, the like ne'er read before.
Third Cit. Nay, when Saxon Edward came back from conquered Wales——
Fourth Cit. Ay, 'twas such a day of holy joy!
Second Cit. But not so general.
First Cit. And guards with arms kept order in the streets.
Third Cit. But now there's no authority abroad save that comes from our hearts. Surely the air is charged with drug of peace, and all men breathe it.
First Cit. Where meets the council? In the Tower chamber?
Third Cit. Nay, at Westminster palace.
Second Cit. That's three miles.
We must push on if we would see them enter.
[They move off]
First Friar. How meanly does it speak for this proud world
That when the devil lays his weapons by
And peace and love for one day reign o'er all,
That it should wonder at itself, and cry
"A miracle!"
Second Friar. In holy Edward's time,
The nuns of Beda joined the council in
Concerted praise, for 'twas their prayerful fast
Kept Heaven with the king and gave us Wales;
And 'twas decreed that ever on such days
The nuns from this most blest and ancient abbey
Should with the great assembly kneel in praise.
First Friar. And so they do this day. The legate, Gualo,
Sent invitation from the king.
Second Friar. The king?
This shows most well in him.
First Friar. If we haste on,
We'll see the sisters passing toward the palace.
Second friar. Let's forward then. God save so good a king!
[Exeunt. Curtain]