I was a madman, rushing on a spear

In rapture. Take your Queen back to your heart,

Forgiven, but as for me—lift up your sword

And claim this forfeit soul.

(A distant chanting is heard.)

Arthur (raising his sword)

I have good cause.

I loved, and you have shamed me; more, undone

My life, my hope, my kingdom! (Letting his point fall.) No, I cannot.

Were we but met in the hot battle’s blood