[36], [164]. this fact, though of justice: this action, though done in the name of justice.
[37], [170]. he, i. e. his enemy.
[37], [175-76]. which . . . him: which is more precious than a human life, which is inferior in value to it, and which was rightly forfeited to him through ill-doing.
[37], [190]. This is a grace. The grace or boon for which Bussy asks is explained by him in ll. 193-203. "This" usually refers to something that has gone before, on my knees redoubled: going down for the second time on my knees—from which he had risen after [l. 179].
[37], [192]. And shall, i. e. And which grace shall.
[38], [198-204]. Let me . . . King indeed. With this assertion of man's original "Kingship" cf. The Gentleman Usher, v, 1.
And what's a prince? Had all been virtuous men,
There never had been prince upon the earth,
And so no subject: all men had been princes.
A virtuous man is subject to no prince,
But to his soul and honour.
[38.] [Exit Rex cum Montsurry.] See [note] on stage direction at beginning of this scene.
[40], [18]. Although she be my ante. From these words we learn that Beaupre is niece to the Duke and Duchess of Guise. Compare [iii, ii, 188], and the reference to "my lady, your niece" in the passage in Qq 1607 and 1608 quoted in the textual [note] on iii, ii, 233.
[42], [49]. an agent for my bloud: an instrument in the satisfaction of my passions.