Flo. This speaks him noble, even to our envy.
Queen. My lord, in this you have oblig'd us. Pray,
Inform us of your thoughts, that we may study
To make this parley happy.
Dec. Mighty lady,
I find my love hath not been dress'd so smooth
To tempt your liking: and I must confess,
My passion (like the spleen of witches) hath
Begot whirlwinds and thunder. Would I might
Have found a softer way t' have wrought my ends!
For by your beauty (the most sacred oath
A lover can swear by) that was the mark,
The sole fair mark I aim'd at. For, if pride
Had oversway'd my love, I could have stood
O' th' level with that prince, so much your people
Were vow'd to my devotion.
Queen. O my lord,
You fairly speak your virtues.
Dec. And but view
The vastness and good order of my camp,
Your best towns sworn to run my fortune, and
You'll say 'twas love did beg this interview.
Asc. My lord, your language cannot fright us from
The queen's defence.
Dec. Great sir, she needs it not.
Down on your knees, my fellow-soldiers, and
With me bow to your sovereign: swear with me
Never to lift your arm 'gainst her command.
Thus as your subject; as your lover thus—
Thus to the earth I fall, and with my lips
Seal my obedience. [Kisseth the ground.
Queen. Pray, rise up, my lord.
Would I could merit thus much favour; but——
Dec. Pardon. I interrupt you—but you cannot
Find love to answer mine; nor will I force it.
Be happy in your choice, and wheresoe'er
You fix, shine ever glorious. From this hour
I'll never more disturb you.
Queen. Now beshrew me,
Methinks I feel compassion. [Aside.] Good my lord,
Write in that blank all your demands, and, by
The honour of a princess, I'll deny
Nothing you shall insert. [He looks on it, and returns it.