Anne, dear, how——

[The Queen laughs and backs away from him, where he stands with his arms stretched out towards her. In her laugh suddenly there is a slight sob.]

Queen

Stand that way another instant, Charles. Ah, here is everything I have wanted, schemed for, wept about, in the position I have dreamt of it. [She glances out at the park.] The back drop is perfect also. Birds' song, the freshness of morning, sunlight, youth,—youth to be gotten through somehow. However, here it all is, a dream—and not turning pale as all the others did in daylight. Yet, strangely enough, I cannot find a self in me to come forward and take these things as they are now.

Prince

Anne, Anne, for God's sake—I swear to you I can explain everything.

Queen

Try not to let your fear of personal consequences intercept the pity you should feel for me.

Prince

Anne, I love you, I love you.