The inner door she, too, herself, has locked.
KING. I will not force my way. Announce to her
That I am back, and this my summons is—
Say, rather, my request—as now I say.
[Exit waiting-woman.]
KING (standing opposite the throne).
Thou lofty seat, o'ertopping others all,
Grant that we may no lower be than thou,
And even unexalted by these steps
We yet may hold just measure of the good.
_Enter the _QUEEN.
KING (going toward her with outstretched hands).
I greet thee, Leonore!
QUEEN. Be welcome, thou!
KING. And not thy hand?