Hen. Prove your innocence. Let not the stain of murder rest on your honorable name!
Reg. Henry, this is but the judgment of men. I bow to the judgment of Him alone who knoweth all things. He knows I am innocent—that is sufficient. I am satisfied! His will be done! [To Morrell.] Colonel, I await your orders!
Mor. [Aside.] I would I could believe him innocent. The evidence condemns him! [Sighs.] I must fulfill my duty! [To Reginald.] Maitland, the evidence that has been brought to bear shows conclusively that you are guilty! Nothing remains but for me to pass sentence. I therefore condemn you to be shot until you are dead. [Reginald bows his head.] The sentence shall be executed immediately. I will allow you five minutes to prepare yourself to meet your God! [Takes out watch. To Ralph.] Major! you will detail your men to execute the order. [Ralph whispers to Coriolanus and Adolphus.]
Hen. [To Reginald.] Reginald, this is terrible! The Colonel has no right to use such haste. The evidence is purely circumstantial, and should require deeper investigation!
Reg. Nay, do not blame Colonel Morrell; he has simply done his duty. Besides, why should the execution be deferred? Why should I longer drag out a miserable existence? I will soon be happy, Henry, for I shall meet Adrienne. But my child, Henry! my darling little Alice! Take her, Henry—be a father to her—guide her footsteps in the path of honor and virtue. Teach her not to despise her father—that he is innocent. Teach her not to listen to the sneers of the world, but to place an everlasting faith in the Father of us all, so that at the last she will find peace and joy in the beautiful realms above!
Hen. I accept the trust, Reginald. God grant I will be faithful to it. [They shake hands.] Have you any further wishes?
Reg. Tell my father I am innocent—that will be sufficient—he will believe me. Now leave me, Henry!
Hen. Farewell, my brother! [They embrace.] Farewell! [Reginald kneels a moment with bowed head in silent prayer, after which he rises with a quiet air.]
Reg. I am ready, Colonel! [Morrell waves his hand. Adolphus blindfolds Reginald, ties his hands behind him, and places him in position, L. C. Adolphus and Coriolanus take position on right.]
Ralph. [Colonel Morrell, R., Henry, R. C., Ralph, R. C., Coriolanus and Adolphus up R., Reginald, L. C. Pulls handkerchief from pocket.] Carry arms! Ready! [Holds handkerchief at arms length.]