[PEARSON goes out, and returns with BASIL. PEARSON retires, L.]
Basil. Health to the General!
Crom. Good Master Basil, welcome.
I am griev'd,
Most griev'd in spirit for your brother; yet
I must not pardon him. I have receiv'd
Your protestation—
Basil. I have done much service, Good service to the state; I ask his life, Not liberty.
Crom. It cannot be, and yet I lov'd him well myself. It must not be, [Pause.] Yet you have done good service. I am glad You do insist on it. I had not yielded To any other—but you have a right To ask this thing, and I am bound to grant it; I am glad it comes from you, his brother, here—
[Signs a paper and hands it to BASIL.]
What will you do with him?
Basil. I fear, my Lord, There is such treason prov'd—the colonies—
Crom. Nay! Let him where he will; but not to stay In England for his head—he dies, if found here Two days hence—
Basil. Thanks, my Lord, it shall be seen to. A brother's thanks—farewell— [He goes out, L.]