The Queen (in terror): What, then, am I?
Don Sallust: A lady who has sold her throne for love.
Ruy Blas: No!
Don Sallust (whispering to Ruy Blas): I am working in your interests.
(Aloud toThe Queen) Now listen, madam. I have found you here,
Alone with Cesar, in his room, at night.
This conduct—in a queen—would lead the Pope—
Were the fact published—to annul your marriage.
Why not avoid the scandal?
[Taking a parchment from his pocket, he presents it to The Queen.
Sign this deed
Admitting everything, and we can keep
All the proceedings secret. I have put
Plenty of money in the coach that waits
Outside the door. Ride off in it and take
Cesar with you, to France or Portugal.
No one will stop you. But if you refuse
Everything shall be published. Here's a pen.
[He leads the terrified Queen to a writing-table, and puts a pen in her hand. Ruy Blas stands in a corner, motionless and bewildered.
The Queen: Oh, I am lost! Lost, and yet innocent!
Don Sallust: You lose a crown; but think of what you gain—
A life of love and peace and happiness.
Don Cesar loves you, and is worthy of you.
A man of noble race; almost a prince.