EBOLI.
And wherefore—wherefore dies he? Had I known
That it would come to this!
QUEEN (takes her affectionately by the hand).
Oh, dearest princess,
Your senses are distracted, but collect
Your wandering spirits, and relate to me
More calmly, not in images of horror
That fright my inmost soul, whate'er you know!
Say, what has happened?
EBOLI.
Oh, display not, queen,
Such heavenly condescension! Like hot flames
This kindness sears my conscience. I'm not worthy
To view thy purity with eyes profane.
Oh, crush the wretch, who, agonized by shame,
Remorse, and self-reproach writhes at thy feet!
QUEEN.
Unhappy woman! Say, what is thy guilt?
EBOLI.
Angel of light! Sweet saint! thou little knowest
The demon who has won thy loving smiles.
Know her to-day; I was the wretched thief
Who plundered thee.
QUEEN.
What! Thou?
EBOLI.
And gave thy letters
Up to the king?
QUEEN.
What! Thou?
EBOLI.
And dared accuse thee!
QUEEN.
Thou! Couldst thou this?