But is it prudent?
The Priest.
Master Sigard thinks we may humour him. Here he is.
Bishop Nicholas enters, supported by Master Sigard and a priest. He is in his canonicals, but without crozier and mitre.
Bishop Nicholas.
Light more candles. [He is led to a seat upon the couch, near the brazier, and is covered with rugs.] Viliam! Now have I been granted forgiveness for all my sins! They took them all away with them;—meseems I am so light now.
Sira Viliam.
The Duke sends you greeting, my lord; he has already passed Hoved-isle!
Bishop Nicholas.
’Tis well, very well. Belike the King, too, will soon be here. I have been a sinful hound in my day, Viliam; I have grievously trespassed against the King. The priests in there averred that all my sins should be forgiven me;—well well, it may be so; but ’tis easy for them to promise; ’tis not against them that I have trespassed. No no; it is safest to have it from the King’s own mouth. [Exclaims impatiently.] Light, I say! ’tis so dark in here.