SCENE X
THEKLA, the SWEDISH CAPTAIN, LADY NEUBRUNN
CAPTAIN (respectfully approaching her).
Princess—I must entreat your gentle pardon—
My inconsiderate rash speech. How could I—
THEKLA (with dignity).
You have beheld me in my agony.
A most distressful accident occasion'd
You from a stranger to become at once
My confidant.
CAPTAIN.
I fear you hate my presence,
For my tongue spake a melancholy word.
THEKLA.
The fault is mine. Myself did wrest it from you.
The horror which came o'er me interrupted
Your tale at its commencement. May it please you,
Continue it to the end.