General. [Returning papers.] 'Tis well—see him executed according to the sentence. Hard and imperious duty, which, at once, shuts out hope and mercy!
[Exit General.
Officer. Now to seek for Lenox, and restore to him his miniature.
[Exit.
Scene IV. The Camp, as in Act I, Scene III; the stage is thrown open, drums roll, and the procession enters for the execution of Christine; she is in the centre, between the two detachments; her coat is off, and the stock unloosened from her neck—her step is firm, until she reaches the tent of Lenox, when she clasps her hands and hangs down her head in despair. Procession makes the circuit of the stage with slow steps, and when opposite the tent she kneels; an Officer places the bandage over her eyes, and gives a sign to a detachment of four to advance; they step forward, and level their muskets at her; at the moment, Lenox rushes from the tent with the miniature in his hand and strikes up their guns.
Lenox. Hold! for your lives! [Rushes down to Christine, and tears the bandage from her eyes.] 'Tis she! 'tis she! 'tis my own, my beloved Christine!
[Holds her in his arms; she faints.
2nd Officer. What means this?
Lenox. Stand off, ye cruel executioners, would you destroy a woman?
Officer. A woman? Heavens! how did this happen?