Receive thy sword again. We've been too rash!
[He approaches him, holds out his hand, and assists him to rise.
My son's not in his place; Carlos, arise!
Come to thy father's arms! His love awaits thee.
CARLOS (receives the embrace of the KING without any consciousness.
Suddenly recollects himself, pauses and looks fixedly at him).
Thou smell'st of blood—no, I cannot embrace thee!
[Pushes his father back. All the GRANDEES are in commotion.
CARLOS to them:—
Nay, stand not there confounded and amazed!—
What monstrous action have I done? Defiled
The anointed of the Lord! Oh, fear me not,
I would not lay a hand on him. Behold,
Stamped on his forehead is the damning brand!
The hand of God hath marked him!
KING (about to go quickly).
Nobles! follow.
CARLOS.
Whither? You stir not from this spot.
[Detaining the KING forcibly with both hands, while with one
he manages to seize the sword which the KING has brought with
him, and it comes from the scabbard.
KING.
What! Draw
A sword upon thy father?