Mess. I humbly do entreat your highness' pardon;
My haste made me unmannerly. There is staying 105
A gentleman, sent from the king, to see you.
Kath. Admit him entrance, Griffith: but this fellow
Let me ne'er see again. [Exeunt Griffith and Messenger.
Re-enter Griffith, with Capucius.[711]
If my sight fail not,
You should be lord ambassador from the emperor,
My royal nephew, and your name Capucius.[712] 110
Cap. Madam, the same; your servant.
Kath. O, my lord,
The times and titles now are alter'd strangely
With me since first you knew me. But, I pray you,[713]
What is your pleasure with me?
Cap. Noble lady,
First, mine own service to your grace; the next, 115
The king's request that I would visit you;
Who grieves much for your weakness, and by me
Sends you his princely commendations,
And heartily entreats you take good comfort.
Kath. O my good lord, that comfort comes too late, 120
'Tis like a pardon after execution:
That gentle physic, given in time, had cured me;
But now I am past all comforts here but prayers.
How does his highness?
Cap. Madam, in good health.
Kath. So may he ever do! and ever flourish, 125
When I shall dwell with worms, and my poor name
Banish'd the kingdom! Patience, is that letter,
I caused you write, yet sent away?