Bess [taking it from her]. He shall, young impudence, but he shall fetch it. Play him, Bet, play him well, and if he should ask you go into the meadows ... say “Yes.” But not in haste, mark you!
Elizabeth [on her knees, clinging to her mother’s gown]. Lady mother ... I mislike it....
Bess [disengaging herself]. “It,” “it”? What is “it”? He is a pretty young man, and his blood runs high like Darnley’s. But God be thanked ’tis a wiser fool than his brother. Now remember to carry yourself as a Cavendish should. Be cautious! Make no false step. I go to cosset and posset the mother. S’death, I would I were in your shoes, Bet, to run into the woods instead of tiptoe round a sick-chamber.
Elizabeth [springing up]. May I indeed go into the woods?
Bess [at the door]. Sh-sh.... Cavendo tutus![[27]]
Elizabeth [half runs to the window with the cap, stops, smiles]. My Lord!
Lennox. Are you alone, mistress?
Elizabeth. Yes.... No....
Lennox. Who is there?
Elizabeth. Your cap! [Looks laughing out of the window.]