ELINOR
Let her not come
Near him till all is done. Let her not know
Anything, or the old fever will awake.
I'll lance his arm now!
[The Prioress closes the door. Elinor goes into the alcove. The chant from the chapel swells up again. Queen Elinor comes out of the alcove, white and trembling. She speaks in a low whisper as she looks back.]
Now, trickle down, sweet blood. Grow white, fond lips
That have kissed Marian—yet, she shall not boast
You kissed her last; for I will have you wake
To the fierce memory of this kiss in heaven
Or burn with it in hell;
[She kneels down as if to kiss the face of Robin, within. The chant from the chapel swells up more loudly. The door slowly opens. Marian steals in. Elinor rises and confronts her.]
ELINOR
[Laying a hand upon Robin's bow beside her.]
Hush! Do not wake him!
MARIAN
[In a low voice.]