Butler. 'Tis my purpose.

Gordon. Who leans with his whole confidence upon you!

Butler. Such is his evil destiny!

Gordon. Your General!
The sacred person of your General! [25]

Butler. My General he has been.

Gordon. That 'tis only
A 'has been' washes out no villainy.
And without judgment passed?

Butler. The execution
Is here instead of judgment.

Gordon. This were murder,
Not justice. The most guilty should be heard. 30

Butler. His guilt is clear, the Emperor has passed judgment,
[[773]] And we but execute his will.

Gordon. We should not
Hurry to realize a bloody sentence.
A word may be recalled, a life can never be.