Leicester (astonished and interested). Indeed, my Liege! I did not know he was given to such deep state-craft.
Queen (with proud emphasis). Why man! With one hand I grasp the trident of the ocean, with the other California and the Indies. Drake’s a Prophet—he knows the true strength and policy of England. The destiny of nations! (She storms about, Leicester eyeing her with astonishment and awe). Come along, Robin! I must see these wise men of the council and let them know what I think of their drivelling. I say Drake’s conduct is only self defence! Just retaliation! The money is lawful prize. I’ll give Sussex a talking to, for his intermeddling—’Fore God, I’ll set some of them by the feet before all’s over about this, I’ll bracelet them with iron, both arms and ankles. Come along, Robin! Come along. (Aside as she goes off). Three millions! Mother of God! Three millions.
(Exeunt).
Scene VIII.—TERRACE OF GREENWICH PALACE.
Decorated with masts, bearing various devices, illustrative of England’s heroes and their victories, and surmounted with the National flag. The river is crowded with shipping, having all their bunting and streamers abroad, in honour of the great event. Their decks and rigging filled with gaily dressed spectators. All London is there. It is known, that the Queen has resolved to honour with her presence at dinner, the little ship that has fought its way round the world, and the heroes who manned it. Deck of the Golden Hind covered with an awning, extended with canvas on to the land in a semi-circular form; open in front and supported by pillars—the whole highly ornamented and painted with scenic effect, to represent the great occasions of England’s triumph by sea and land. A dinner-table spread with gold and silver plate, with various jewelled articles in those metals—trophies brought from the Indies—and piled with rare tropical fruits and productions, since become familiar although then extraordinary. A flag in the centre, by order of the Queen, bearing the arms of Drake and the mottoes “Divino auxilio” above and “Sic parvis magna” below. The table is occupied by distinguished nobles, knights, and great officers—amongst them, conspicuous, Howard of Effingham, Lord High Admiral; Leicester; Raleigh; Hatton, and others, principally those most against Spain, if not actually in the interest of the Freebooters, who fearlessly kept the Channel and guarded the coast, and who had maintained the right of Queen Elizabeth, even when her sister was on the throne. On the left, the Queen on a raised platform, with the great ladies of her court, seated at a table. Sailors with a profusion of gold chains, jewels and foreign ornaments standing about. Yet showing their deference to their sovereign, as well as their high discipline. Great cheering. Curtain rises, Drake comes forward with a large gold richly jewelled goblet filled with wine, which he presents to the Queen kneeling.
Queen. Rise, Mr. Drake. What would you say?
Drake. On behalf of the crew of the “Golden Hind,” I would beg your Majesty’s acceptance of this cup, which is probably the most valuable ever designed for human lips—meet only for the Monarch, whose wisdom and genius have made her country respected and feared by the nations of the earth. The goblet and the wine are the lawful prize of the valour of your men—taken on the great Pacific, whose waters quailed beneath the thunder of your guns. Both have made the circuit of the globe, and thus been guided by Providence to the lips of His most favoured Queen.
Queen (bowing to the men). I accept your precious gift, with thanks.
Drake. My Liege! I have another favour to ask—leave to propose a toast?
Queen. You shall be king, sir, on your own deck, where you have so ably commanded—proceed!