Phil. He's blind indeed!
So the dull beasts in the first paradise,
With levelled eyes, gazed each upon their kind;
There fixed their love, and ne'er looked up to view
That glorious creature man, their sovereign lord.
Queen. Y'are too severe on little faults; but he
Has crimes, untold,
Which will, I fear, move you much more against him.
He fell this day into a passion with me,
And boldly contradicted all I said.
Phil. And stands his head upon his shoulders yet? How long shall this most insolent—
Queen. Take heed you rail not; You know you are but on your good behaviour.
Phil. Why then I will not call him traitor,
But only rude, audacious, and impertinent,
To use his sovereign so—I beg your leave
To wish, you have at least imprisoned him.
Queen. Some people may speak ill, and yet mean well:
Remember you were not confined; and yet
Your fault was great. In short, I love him,
And that excuses all; but be not jealous;
His rising shall not be your overthrow,
Nor will I ever marry him.
Phil. That's some comfort yet; He shall not be a king.
Queen. He never shall. But you are discomposed; Stay here a little; I have somewhat for you, Shall shew, you still are in my favour.
[Exeunt Queen and ASTERIA.
Enter to him CANDIOPE, weeping.