KING.
I pledge my word
You shall not. You have proved my guardian angel.
How many thanks I owe you for this service!
[LERMA enters—the KING to him.
How did you leave the queen?
LERMA.
But scarce recovered
From her deep swoon.
[He looks at the MARQUIS doubtfully, and exit.
MARQUIS (to the KING, after a pause).
One caution yet seems needful.
The prince may be advised of our design,
For he has many faithful friends in Ghent,
And may have partisans among the rebels.
Fear may incite to desperate resolves;
Therefore I counsel that some speedy means
Be taken to prevent this fatal chance.
KING.
You are quite right—but how?
MARQUIS.
Your majesty
May sign a secret warrant of arrest
And place it in my hands, to be employed,
As may seem needful, in the hour of danger.
[The KING appears thoughtful.
This step must be a most profound state secret
Until——