[Stabs him again, and Posa falls.

M. of Posa. My lord the king—but life too far is gone—
I faint—be mindful of your queen and son. [Dies.

King. The slave in death repents, and warns me. Yes,
I shall be very mindful. What are these?

[Takes up the despatches.

For Flanders! with the prince's signet sealed!
Here's villany has yet been unrevealed.
See, Gomez, practices against my crown; [Shows them him.
Treason and lust have joined to pull me down.
Yet still I stand like a firm sturdy rock,
Whilst they but split themselves with their own shock.
But I too long delay: give word I come.

Ruy-Gom. What, ho! within! The king is nigh; make room.

[Ruy-Gomez draws a curtain, and discovers Don John and the Duchess of Eboli embracing.

King. Now let me, if I can, to fury add,
That when I thunder I may strike them dead.

[Looking earnestly on them.

Ha! Gomez! on this truth depends thy life.
Why, that's our brother Austria!