[There is a silence. Ruy Blas returns without the sword.
Ruy Blas (falling on his knees): Pardon me, madam, pardon me!
I am less guilty than I seem. At heart,
I am an honest man. My love for you
Led me into the trap that villain laid.
Will you not pardon me?
The Queen: No!
Ruy Blas: Never?
The Queen: No!
[Staggering to the table, he seizes the glass and drains it.
Ruy Blas: Well, that is over, then.
The Queen (running up to him): What have you done?
Ruy Blas: Nothing. But, oh, to think you loved me once!
The Queen: What was there in that glass? I love you still!
What was it? Poison? Tell me.