Too late. You offered me love's pay as you would throw a gold piece into the cap of a beggar crouching in the street, and if I, thrilled now by hot desire, employ the only moment of life which commits you into my hands, I will not have you play with me any longer. I will, and you--you--must--before this throne our alliance is ratified. Take away the hand. That, others may kiss, but I, Queen, will have the mouth. I will----
FIFTH SCENE.
THE SAME. THE MARSHAL.
The Queen.
(Who until now has listened, anxious but not altogether unfriendly, collects herself, and draws herself up in sudden anger.) I deliver this insolent fellow to you, Marshal. Deal with him as he deserves. (She goes to the door. There she stops, and gives The Sleepy Maid of Honour two angry little blows with her fan. The latter springs up, bows, and goes out gravely behind The Queen, with The Deaf Maid of Honour, who has risen.)
SIXTH SCENE.
THE MARSHAL. THE PAINTER.
The Marshal.
Sir, if you wish to say a paternoster, make haste with it.
The Painter.