The Knights and Barons rise; Mark springs up and steps back a pace. Iseult remains standing on the bottom step. Brangaene, Gimella and Paraniss are behind her.
Iseult.
I beg of you,
My Lords, consider what is past as 'twere
A dream, since otherwise we could not find
Fit words or proper sentiments to stand
Before each other with unblushing cheek,
For very shame and horror at this deed.
[She steps down into the hall.]
My Lords, I bid you welcome, one and all!
Ganelun.
I kiss thy mantle's hem, oh Queen!
1st Baron.
So do
We all who stand before thee now. We feel
That thou art holy, Queen Iseult!
Iseult.
Ye do
Me wrong in praising me too much, good friends.
I did but swear the truth and keep what I
Had sworn. Continue now your play. I would
Not hinder you!
[She turns to Mark; both stare at each
other for a moment and then Iseult
speaks timidly, almost childishly.]
I wish to play at chess
—With Mark and Dinas—that true, loyal friend—
Mark (after a short pause, quietly and kindly).
Play thou with Dinas first, since I, this morn,
Did interrupt thy game. I promised him
That he should play with thee.
[He goes to the chest.]