Sir Mador. According to our ancient laws, when a guest dies in this most suspicious manner, where proof of grievous intent is present, the accused is condemned to be burnt at the stake.
Guin. Great Heaven!
Arthur. ’Tis a foul punishment.
Sir Mador. But for a foul crime.
Other Knights. Yea, ’tis but justice.
Arthur. There is also a trial.
Mordred. Yea, Sire, the accused being a woman must have a knight to prove her innocence by his body on the body of the accuser ere the time of death be accomplished.
Arthur. Then be it so. The law must follow on the weight of these many witnesses. (Turning to the Queen.) Guinevere, Queen of Britain, I believe thee guiltless of the crime whereof thou art accused, as thou hast said. As King I am not free to prove thine innocence with my body, but as the King, unless thou procurest a knight to assoil thee ere the time appointed, I here condemn thee to be taken hence to a place of public note and there be burnt to death, as the law requireth.
Guin. Oh Great Heaven! (Falls in a swoon.)