Louv. With what intent, my liege—a friend or foe?
Cha. It is not known.
Lou. To serve himself, no doubt.
His ev'ry thought is self.
Cha. Well do we know him.
Our fortune hath not forged a chain more galling
Than that which binds us to a man we hate.
Howe'er, his views will quickly now be known:—
The maid is sent to meet him.
Lou. Was this prudent?
Should his intent be mischief, would he scruple,
E'en by the nearest road, to blast our hopes?
Cha. She hath a chosen guard for her protection,
With Xaintrailles at their head. He dare not harm her!
Yet would they were returned: in honour's name,
We rather would forego the crown she promised,
Than ought of evil should befall the maid.
Lou. That none will doubt: she has a double claim;
To thee her sex's charms—
Cha. We charge thee, Louvel,
Breathe not a word like this: her simple grandeur
Checks all idle thought, and spreads around her
The very purity which decks herself.
Enter Xaintrailles.
What tidings? say, have swords been interchanged,
Or comes he peacefully?