[Perkin Warbeck and his followers are presented to King Henry VII. by Lord Dawbeny as prisoners.]
Dawbeny—
Life to the King, and safety fix his throne.
I here present you, royal sir, a shadow
Of Majesty, but in effect a substance
Of pity; a young man, in nothing grown
To ripeness, but th' ambition of your mercy;
Perkin, the Christian world's strange wonder!
King Henry—
Dawbeny,
We observe no wonder; I behold ('tis true)
An ornament of nature, fine and polished,
A handsome youth, indeed, but not admire him.
How come he to thy hands?
Dawbeny—
From sanctuary.
At Bewley, near Southampton; registered,
With these few followers, for persons privileged.
King Henry—
I must not thank you, sir! you were to blame
To infringe the liberty of houses sacred;
Dare we be irreligious?
Dawbeny—