The audience stood in a suspense not less than Romeo's, every gaze intent upon the place where Tybalt should come forth.
But from that place, no one appeared.
Why did Tybalt delay? What was the matter?
It was an embarrassing moment for Mr. Burbage. He whispered something to the Benvolio, who thereupon went to the curtain at the rear and pushed it aside. He disclosed a number of those actors known as servitors, waiting to come on as citizens, and behind these the Prince with Montague and Capulet and their ladies.
"Where's Marryott?" called Benvolio to these. "'Tis his cue. The stage waits for Tybalt."
Those about the doorway looked into the tiring-room. "He is not here," replied several.
"He is not come from the stage yet," said Hudsdon. "I have kept my eye for him."
"Why," said Benvolio to the fellows who had played Tybalt's followers, "came he not off with you?"
"I remember not," said one. "'Tis certain he ought to have."