The Queen: What is this, then? Look and read.
[She gives him the note he wrote for Don Sallust as his lackey.
Ruy Blas (reading it): "My life is in great danger.
You alone can save me."
The Queen (continuing): "Come this evening to my house.
No one will recognise you if you use
The side door by the corner." Here's your name, "Cesar."
Ruy Blas: Go! Go! It is a plot against you.
I cannot now explain. Fly for your life!
The Queen: But you are in great danger. No! I'll stay,
And help you, Cesar.
Ruy Blas: Go, I tell you! Go!
The letter is not mine. Who let you in?
Don Sallust (striding into the room): I did.
Ruy Blas: Go, madam, while the way is clear.
Don Sallust: It is too late. Doña Maria is
No longer Queen of Spain.