[To Fletcher.] Curious, the two masters can neither wrestle nor embrace: Bacon’s on earth, Shakespeare in the clouds.

Fletcher:

[Not listening.] Let us go into the inner room: we shall hear the music better. [All go inside save Shakespeare and Jonson. Music is heard through the open door.]

Jonson:

[Turning to Shakespeare.] So you are in love, I hear. Oh, that urchin, Cupid! But beware, Will, beware; his darts are all poisoned.

[Takes Shakespeare’s arm, and draws him towards the inner room.]

Shakespeare:

What sweet poison!

Scene III.

In the grounds of St. James’s Palace by moonlight. A marquee in centre of stage with throne. Miss Fitton moves about in garden, L., as if looking for something till Shakespeare enters, L.