Except this lady!" bids the minister:

"With her I claim a word apart, no more:

For who gainsays—a guard is at the door.

Hold, duke! Submit you, lady, as I bow

To him whose mouthpiece speaks his pleasure now!

It well may happen I no whit arrest

Your marriage: be it so,—we hope the best!

By your leave, gentles! Lady, pray you, hence!

Duke, with my soul and body's deference!"

VIII