Consider me as a thing--as a slave!
The Queen.
And you know how to be silent? Tell me--swear!
The Painter.
What you did not will me to hear, that I have not heard. What I did not hear, I cannot keep as a secret.
The Queen.
Lofty sentiment and noble will find expression in you. So, in all silence, I may show your heart what favours are granted to you.
The Painter (tremulously).
Am I worth it? And if you regret it to-morrow?
The Queen.