Ran. Prithee, good Wench, bring in the Punch-Bowl.
Exeunt.
[ ACT II.]
[ Scene I.] A Pavilion.
Discovers the Indian King and Queen sitting in State, with Guards of Indians, Men and Women attending: To them Bacon richly dress’d, attended by Daring, Fearless and other Officers; he bows to the King and Queen, who rise to receive him.
King. I am sorry, Sir, we meet upon these Terms, we who so often have embrac’d as Friends.
Bac. How charming is the Queen! Aside. War, Sir, is not my Business nor my Pleasure: Nor was I bred in Arms, my Country’s Good has forc’d me to assume a Soldier’s Life; and ’tis with much regret that I employ the first Effects of it against my Friends: yet whilst I may—whilst this Cessation lasts, I beg we may exchange those Friendships, Sir, we have so often paid in happier Peace.
King. For your part, Sir, you’ve been so noble, that I repent the fatal Difference that makes us meet in Arms. Yet though I’m young, I’m sensible of Injuries; and oft have heard my Grandsire say, That we were Monarchs once of all this spacious World, till you, an unknown People, landing here, distress’d and ruin’d by destructive Storms, abusing all our charitable Hospitality, usurp’d our Right, and made your Friends your Slaves.
Bac. I will not justify the Ingratitude of my Forefathers, but finding here my Inheritance, I am resolv’d still to maintain it so, and by my Sword which first cut out my Portion, defend each Inch of Land, with my last drop of Blood.
Queen. Even his Threats [have Charms] that please the Heart. Aside.