Don Carlos: A Play

The former. MARQUIS POSA rushes in; behind him two Officers of the Queen's Guard.

Marquis. (breathless and agitated, rushing between CARLOS and the PRINCESS) Say, what has he confessed? Believe him not!

Carlos. (still on his knees, with loud voice) By all that's holy----

Marquis. (interrupting him with vehemence) He is mad! He raves! Oh, listen to him not!

Carlos. (louder and more urgent) It is a question Of life and death; conduct me to her straight.

Marquis. (dragging the PRINCESS from him by force) You die, if you but listen. [To one of the officers, showing an order. Count of Cordova! In the king's name, Prince Carlos is your prisoner.

[CARLOS stands bewildered. The PRINCESS utters a cry of horror, and tries to escape. The officers are astounded. A long and deep pause ensues. The MARQUIS trembles violently, and with difficulty preserves his composure. [To the PRINCE.

I beg your sword--The Princess Eboli Remains---- [To the officers. And you, on peril of your lives, Let no one with his highness speak--no person-- Not e'en yourselves. [He whispers a few words to one officer, then turns to the other. I hasten, instantly, To cast myself before our monarch's feet, And justify this step---- [To the PRINCE. And prince! for you-- Expect me in an hour.

[CARLOS permits himself to be led away without any signs of consciousness, except that in passing he casts a languid, dying look on the MARQUIS. The PRINCESS endeavors again to escape; the MARQUIS pulls her back by the arm.