The Courtiers. Many such happy mornings to your Grace!

Duch. [Aside, as they pay their devoir.] The same words, the same faces,—the same love!

I have been overfearful. These are few;

But these, at least, stand firmly: these are mine.

As many come as may; and if no more,

'T is that these few suffice—they do suffice!

What succor may not next year bring me? Plainly,

I feared too soon. [To the Courtiers.] I thank you, sirs: all thanks!

Val. [Aside, as the Duchess passes from one group to another, conversing.] 'T is she—the vision this day last year brought,

When, for a golden moment at our Cleves,