Not so! Your sires were vassals to my sires.
I forbid any one to stir a step.

LAFFEMAS (with voice of thunder).

My masters, hark to me: I am the judge
Of the secret tribunal, Criminal-
Lieutenant to the Cardinal. Conduct
These men to prison. Four of you mount guard
Before each door. You're all responsible.
It would be rash to disobey when I command
You to go here or there or do a deed.
If any hesitate, it is because
His head annoys him.

[The Guards, terrified, drag the two prisoners off in silence, Marquis de Nangis turns away indignant and buries his face in his hands.

MARION.

All is lost!
[To Laffemas.] Have pity!
If in your heart—

LAFFEMAS (low to Marion).

If you will come to-night,
I'll tell you something—

MARION (aside).

What is it he wants?
His smiles are terrible. He has a gloomy,
Treacherous soul.