That slay the wooers. (Runs to Pen.) O lady, forgive me!

’Tis Ares’ self. I saw his crispèd beard:

I saw beneath his helm his curling locks.

None will escape. O lady, save me, save me. [Kneels.

Maids all. Let them not slay us. Lady! lady! forgive us!2699

Pen. Why kneelest thou to me? Fools, why to me?

I have nothing to forgive you. There is no wrong

’Twixt me and you: Or if the gods should punish,

Can I protect?

Maids.Forgive us, queen, forgive us!