[He is laid on the bench near the chimney,
and lies there like an effigy.]
Mark (to the First Guard).
Where are his shield and arms?
Str. Knight.
I bore the shield
Of Tristram, Lord of Lyonesse, since we,
For our great love, exchanged our arms. I am
His brother, for my sister is his wife.
Lord Tristram greets thee, Mark.
Mark (to him passionately).
Speak, friend, and put
An end unto the quandary in which
I stand. God shall reward thee soon. Where is
Lord Tristram?
Str. Knight (groaning).
With his wife whom he holds dear.
Str. Jester.
Thou liest, brother, yet thou speak'st the truth!
Dinas.
God mocks me, Lords! God mocks me!
Str. Jester.
I will watch
By him and guard his body through the night.
Ganelun.
Be still, thou toad! Be still!
1st GUARD.
King Mark, the Knight
Upon his left hand wears a ring—a stone
Rich set in gold. Shall he retain the ring
Upon his hand?—He's dead.