King. [looks at him with surprise].
We have met before, then?
Mar.No.
King.You did my crown
Some service: wherefore have you shunn'd my thanks?
Our memory is besieged by crowds of suitors;
Omniscient is none but He in Heaven.
You should have sought my looks: why did you not?
Mar. 'Tis scarcely yet two days, your Majesty,
Since I returned to Spain.
King.I am not used
To be my servants' debtor; ask of me
Some favour.
Mar.I enjoy the laws.
King.That right
The very murd'rer has.
Mar.And how much more
The honest citizen!—Sire, I'm content.
King [aside]. Much self-respect indeed, and lofty daring!
But this was to be looked for: I would have
My Spaniards haughty; better that the cup
Should overflow than not be full.—I hear
You left my service, Marquis.
Mar.Making way
For men more worthy, I withdrew.