On my behalf, and take him to thy bosom;

A noble temper shines even through his faults,

And gilds them into virtues.

Vera. Take him hence.

[Ramirez is led off by Sancho and Carlos, and followed by the Guards; Alphonso looking frowningly. The rest stay.

Alph. [Aside.] How I abhor this base inhuman act!

But patience! he's my father.

Vera. Thus all his praises are thy accusations;

And even that very sword,—

Punish me, heaven, if I believe not so!—