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<pre>
The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Earl of Essex, by Henry Jones
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
Title: The Earl of Essex
Author: Henry Jones
Commentator: Elizabeth Inchbald
Release Date: February 25, 2010 [EBook #31397]
Language: English
Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE EARL OF ESSEX ***
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Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net
</pre>
<div class="figcenter" style="width: 534px;">
<img src="images/essex.jpg" width="534" height="800" alt="frontispiece" title="EARL OF ESSEX QUEEN TWIXT YOU AND ME THIS RING SHALL BE A PRIVATE MARK OF FAITH ACT IV. SCENE I PAINTED BY HOWARD." />
</div>
<h1><span class="subhead2">THE</span><br />
EARL OF ESSEX;</h1>
<p class="center">A TRAGEDY,<br />
IN FIVE ACTS;</p>
<p class="bigcenter">BY HENRY JONES.</p>
<p class="center"><span class="subhead2">AS PERFORMED AT THE</span><br />
THEATRE ROYAL, COVENT GARDEN.</p>
<p class="center">PRINTED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE MANAGERS<br />
FROM THE PROMPT BOOK.</p>
<p class="center">WITH REMARKS<br />
<span class="bigtext">BY MRS INCHBALD.</span></p>
<p class="center"><span class="bigtext">LONDON:</span><br />
PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HURST, REES, ORME, AND
BROWN, PATERNOSTER ROW.</p>
<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Edinburgh</span>:<br />
Printed by James Ballantyne and Co.</p>
<hr style="width: 65%;" />
<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p>
<h2>REMARKS.</h2>
<p>This tragedy was dedicated to the Earl of Chesterfield, who was the
author's patron, and who, it is supposed, assisted him in the
composition of the work.</p>
<p>There are two tragedies under the title of "The Earl of Essex;" but the
following, by Henry Jones, brought upon the stage in 1753, was most
favourably received, and became very attractive.</p>
<p>The dramatist, who founds his plot and incidents on history, generally
adds, from his invention, those scenes, which best describe the power of
love. Here it has been otherwise, at least in the character of the
queen; whom every distinguished historian has portrayed as more
enamoured of her favourite Essex, than even this play will exhibit.</p>
<p>The character of Essex is sustained with greater accuracy:—the fiery
quality of his temper; his alternate pride and humility, daring and
servility, in presence of his royal mistress; with all his boisterous
vows of loyalty to her; and tender oaths of love to another.</p>
<p>The few characters which compose this drama, all claim an interest with
the reader, were it but from their mere names. The great Sir Walter
Raleigh is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span> of the least importance among the dramatic group; and yet
his appearance causes an association of ideas, that makes every line he
utters valuable, for the sake of his reputation, and his impending
misfortunes.</p>
<p>The admirers of Shakspeare will likewise feel a double concern in the
fate of the Lord Southampton, whilst they recollect, that this zealous
friend of Essex was the noble protector and benefactor of England's most
illustrious bard.</p>
<p>The name of Burleigh sounds high as that of Elizabeth, for their glory
was equal—but the name alone attaches to the present character; for the
great Cecil, by the wisdom of whose measures England was, at the period
of this play, in its highest prosperity, died about two years previous
to the death of Essex; and this, his son, became the unhappy earl's
bitterest foe.</p>
<p>Not even a female character is here introduced from fiction.—Rutland
and Nottingham are both well known in history; and though the cruel
incident of the ring is not attested by any historian, it is minutely
related by them all.</p>
<p>But whether her majesty gave the unfortunate hero of this tragedy a ring
or not, it is most certain that she gave him a blow; and of all the
proofs of love which she bestowed upon him, this surely cannot be
numbered amongst the least.</p>
<p>It is extraordinary, that the present play, having introduced this
singular occurrence, should omit the particular sentence which Essex
uttered on the memorable occasion.—History says, that he laid his hand<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span>
on his sword, and told Elizabeth, "he would not have taken such
treatment from her father, Henry the Eighth."—But, as a man of true
gallantry, the Earl should not have felt himself offended at a woman's
anger; which experience must have told him, was the certain mark of
concealed tenderness. His reply had been most excellent had it been
delivered with smiles instead of frowns; but to have recourse to his
sword, was acting like a novice in the art of love; and resenting an
affront, when he should have acknowledged a favour.</p>
<p>As that love which is expressed by indirect means, has often the
greatest hold upon the attention and sympathy of the spectator; so, many
an auditor and reader will feel more interest in the restrained
affection of Elizabeth for her paramour, than in the unbridled fondness
of Rutland for her husband.—The scene, where the queen bestows the
ring, as a pledge of her kindest regard for his safety, is peculiarly
affecting, because the strength of her passion is there discoverable,
under a demeanour properly dignified; and all violent propensity, either
to esteem or resentment, is strictly governed by the consideration of
her own exalted rank.</p>
<p>In depicting the affliction, which the queen endured upon the execution
of Essex, and more especially at the news that he had implored her mercy
in vain, the dramatist has fallen infinitely below the historian. Hume
relates, that when Nottingham, having in her last illness requested to
see the queen, revealed her<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> fatal secret, and entreated her majesty's
forgiveness, the queen shook the dying countess in her bed, and
exclaimed—"God may forgive you, but I never will." The most dismal
melancholy, as it is alleged, succeeded this rage.—But, from whatever
cause, it is certain that an almost unheard-of despondency concluded the
reign of this great princess, whose mind was masculine; and who,
throughout her long career of government, never evinced one feminine
weakness, which was not the effect of love, or of that vanity, which
hoped to inspire the passion.</p>
<p>At this era, in the short space of two years, the hand of death snatched
from the court of Great Britain, all these its most remarkable
personages—Essex, Nottingham, and the queen. It is probable, that the
decease of the first, hastened that of the second, as well as of the
last, character; for the countess's remorse for political stratagem is
reported to have been dreadfully severe.</p>
<p>The earl died in his thirty-fourth, and the queen in her seventieth
year.—In a subject, her majesty's unseasonable love might have formed a
comic, instead of a tragic, drama.</p>
<hr style="width: 65%;" />
<h2><a name="DRAMATIS_PERSONAE" id="DRAMATIS_PERSONAE"></a>DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.</h2>
<div class="figcenter">
<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" summary="Dramatis Personae">
<tr>
<td class="character">Earl of Essex</td>
<td class="actor">Mr Holman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Southampton</td>
<td class="actor">Mr Betterton.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Burleigh</td>
<td class="actor">Mr Murray.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Raleigh</td>
<td class="actor">Mr Claremont.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Lieutenant</td>
<td class="actor">Mr Thompson.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character" style="padding-top: 0.75em;">Queen Elizabeth</td>
<td class="actor" style="padding-top: 0.75em;">Mrs Pope.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Lady Rutland</td>
<td class="actor">Mrs Esten.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="character">Lady Nottingham</td>
<td class="actor">Mrs Litchfield.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" class="dpscene">SCENE,—London.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
<hr style="width: 65%;" />
<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p>
<h1><span class="subhead2">THE</span><br />
EARL OF ESSEX.</h1>
<h2>ACT THE FIRST.</h2>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE I.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">An Antichamber in the Palace.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span> and <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> The bill, at length, has pass'd opposing numbers,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whilst crowds, seditious, clamour'd round the senate,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And headlong faction urged its force within.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> It has, my lord!—The wish'd-for day is come,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">When this proud idol of the people's hearts<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall now no more be worshipp'd.—Essex falls.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My lord, the minute's near, that shall unravel<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The mystic schemes of this aspiring man.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Now fortune, with officious hand, invites us<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To her, and opens wide the gates of greatness,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The way to power. My heart exults; I see,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I see, my lord, our utmost wish accomplish'd!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I see great Cecil shine without a rival,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">And England bless him, as her guardian saint.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such potent instruments I have prepared,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As shall, with speed, o'erturn this hated man,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And dash him down, by proof invincible.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> His day of glory now is set in night;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all my anxious hopes, at last, are crown'd.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Those proofs against him, Raleigh—<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> All arrived.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Arrived! how? when?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> This very hour, my lord:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nay more, a person comes, of high distinction,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To prove some secret treaties made by Essex,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With Scotland's monarch, and the proud Tyrone.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> How say'st? to prove them?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> Ay, my lord, and back'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With circumstances of a stronger nature.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It now appears, his secretary, Cuff,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With Blunt and Lee, were deep concern'd in this<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Destructive scheme contrived to raise this lord,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And ruin Cecil. Oh, it is a subtile,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A deep-laid mischief, by the earl contrived<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In hour malignant, to o'erturn the state,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, horror to conceive! dethrone the queen!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> These gladsome tidings fly beyond my hopes!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The queen will listen now, will now believe,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And trust the counsel of her faithful Burleigh.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Dispose them well, till kind occasion calls<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Their office forth; lest prying craft meanwhile<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May tamper with their thoughts and change their minds:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let them, like batteries conceal'd, appear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">At once, both to surprise and to destroy.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> His headstrong friend, the bold Southampton, too,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Now finds his rash endeavours all defeated,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And storms at thee, and the impeaching commons.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Let him rave on, and rage. The lion, in<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">The toils entangled, wastes his strength, and roars<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In vain; his efforts but amuse me now.—<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Gentleman</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Gent.</i> My lord, the Lady Nottingham desires,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With much impatience, to attend your lordship.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> What may the purport of her business be?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Her tender wishes are to Essex tied<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In love's soft fetters, and endearing bands.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Conduct her in.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Gentleman</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And you, my Raleigh, watch Southampton's steps;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With care observe each movement of his friends;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That no advantage on that side be lost.—<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Southampton's Essex' second self;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His daring heart, and bold, ungovern'd tongue,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Are both enlisted in the rash designs<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of this proud lord, nor knows a will but his:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A limb so fix'd, must with the body fall.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Thrice hail to rescued England's guiding genius!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His country's guardian, and his queen's defence!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Great Burleigh, thou whose patriot bosom beats<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With Albion's glory, and Eliza's fame;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who shield'st her person, and support'st her throne;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For thee, what fervent thanks, what offer'd vows,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Do prostrate millions pay!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Bright excellence,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This fair applause too highly over-rates,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Too much extols, the low deserts of Cecil.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> What praises are too high for patriot worth;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or what applause exceeds the price of virtue?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My lord, conviction has at last subdued me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And I am honour's proselyte:—Too long<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My erring heart pursued the ways of faction;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I own myself t' have been your bitt'rest foe,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">And join'd with Essex in each foul attempt<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To blast your honour and traduce your fame.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Though ne'er my wishing heart could call you friend,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yet honour and esteem I always bore you;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And never meant, but with respect to serve you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> It is enough, my lord, I know it well,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And feel rekindling virtue warm my breast;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Honour and gratitude their force resume<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Within my heart, and every wish is yours.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">O Cecil, Cecil, what a foe hast thou!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A deadly foe, whilst hated Essex lives!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> I know it well—but can assign no cause.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Ambition's restless hand has wound his thoughts<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Too high for England's welfare; nay, the queen<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Scarce sits in safety on her throne, while he,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Th' audacious Essex, freely treads at large,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And breathes the common air. Ambition is<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The only god he serves; to whom he'd sacrifice<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His honour, country, friends, and every tie<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of truth and bond of nature; nay, his love.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> The man, that in his public duty fails,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On private virtue will disdainful tread;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And mighty love, who rules all nature else,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Must follow here in proud ambition's train.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Pronounce it not! my soul abhors the sound<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Like death——O, Cecil, will you kindly lend<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Some pity to a wretch like me?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Command,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Madam; my power and will are yours.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Will Cecil's friendly ear vouchsafe to bend<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Its great attention to a woman's wrongs;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whose pride and shame, resentment and despair,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Rise up in raging anarchy at once,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To tear, with ceaseless pangs, my tortured soul?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Words are unequal to the woes I feel;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And language lessens what my heart endures.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, your wrongs, I must confess, are great;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yet still, I fear, you know not half his falsehood.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who, that had eyes to look on beauty;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who, but the false, perfidious Essex, could<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Prefer to Nottingham a Rutland's charms?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Start not!—By Heaven, I tell you naught but truth,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What I can prove, past doubt; that he received<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The lady Rutland's hand, in sacred wedlock,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The very night before his setting out<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For Ireland.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Oh! may quick destruction seize them!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May furies blast, and hell destroy their peace!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May all their nights——<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> I pray, have patience, madam!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Restrain a while your rage; curses are vain.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But there's a surer method to destroy him;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, if you'll join with me, 'tis done—he falls.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Ha! say'st thou, Burleigh! Speak, my genius, speak!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Be quick as vengeance' self to tell me how!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> You must have heard, the commons have impeached him,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And we have proofs sufficient for his ruin.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But then the queen—you know how fair he stands<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In her esteem; and Rutland, too, his wife,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Hath full possession of the royal ear.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Here then, my Nottingham, begins thy task:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Try every art t' incense the queen against him,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then step between her and the Lady Rutland:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Observe Southampton, too, with jealous eye;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Prevent, as much as possible, his suit:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For, well I know, he will not fail to try<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His eloquence on the behalf of Essex.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> It shall be done; his doom is fix'd: he dies.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh 'twas a precious thought! I never knew<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such heartfelt satisfaction.—Essex dies!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And Rutland, in her turn, shall learn to weep.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">The time is precious; I'll about it straight.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Come, vengeance, come! assist me now to breathe<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy venom'd spirit in the royal ear!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> There spoke the very genius of the sex!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A disappointed woman sets no bounds<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To her revenge.—Her temper's form'd to serve me.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> The Lord Southampton, with ungovern'd rage,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Resents aloud his disappointed measures.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I met him in the outward court; he seeks,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In haste, your lordship; and, forgetting forms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Pursues me hither, and demands to see you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Raleigh, 'tis well! Withdraw—attend the queen—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Leave me to deal with this o'erbearing man.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Where is the man, whom virtue calls her friend?—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I give you joy, my lord!—Your quenchless fury<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">At length prevails,—and now your malice triumphs.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You've hunted honour to the toil of faction,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And view his struggles with malicious joy.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> What means my lord?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> O fraud! shall valiant Essex<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Be made a sacrifice to your ambition?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, it smells foul, indeed, of rankest malice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And the vile statesman's craft. You dare not, sure,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thus bid defiance to each show of worth,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Each claim of honour: dare not injure thus<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your suffering country, in her bravest son!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> But why should stern reproach her angry brow<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let fall on me? Am I alone the cause<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That gives this working humour strength? Do I<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Instruct the public voice to warp his actions?<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Justice, untaught, shall poise the impartial scales,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every curious eye may mark the beam.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> The specious shield, which private malice bears,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is ever blazon'd with some public good;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Behind that artful fence, skulk low, conceal'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The bloody purpose, and the poison'd shaft;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ambition there, and envy, nestle close;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From whence they take their fatal aim unseen;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And honest merit is their destined mark.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> My country's welfare, and my queen's command,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Have ever been my guiding stars through life,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My sure direction still.—To these I now<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Appeal;—from these, no doubt, this lord's misconduct<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Hath widely stray'd; and reason, not reviling,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Must now befriend his cause.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> How ill had Providence<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Disposed the suffering world's oppressed affairs,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Had sacred right's eternal rule been left<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To crafty politicians' partial sway!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then power and pride would stretch the enormous grasp,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And call their arbitrary portion, justice:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ambition's arm, by avarice urged, would pluck<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The core of honesty from virtue's heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And plant deceit and rancour in its stead:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Falsehood would trample then on truth and honour,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And envy poison sweet benevolence.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, 'tis a goodly group of attributes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And well befits some statesman's righteous rule!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Out, out upon such bloody doings!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The term of being is not worth the sin;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No human bosom can endure its dart.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then put this cruel purpose from thee far,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor let the blood of Essex whelm thy soul.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span></div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> 'Tis well, my lord! your words no comment need;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No doubt, they've well explained your honest meaning;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Tis clear and full. To parts, like yours, discretion<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Would be a clog, and caution but incumbrance.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yet mark me well, my lord; the clinging ivy<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With the oak may rise, but with it too must fall.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Thy empty threats, ambitious man, hurt not<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The breast of truth. Fair innocence, and faith,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Those strangers to thy practised heart, shall shield<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My honour, and preserve my friend. In vain,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy malice, with unequal arm, shall strive<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To tear the applauded wreath from Essex' brow;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His honest laurel, held aloft by fame,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Above thy blasting reach, shall safely flourish,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And bloom immortal to the latest times;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whilst thou, amidst thy tangling snares involved,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shalt sink confounded, and unpitied fall.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Rail on, proud lord, and give thy choler vent:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It wastes itself in vain; the queen shall judge<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Between us in this warm debate. To her<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I now repair: and, in her royal presence,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You may approve your innocence and faith.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Perhaps you'll meet me there. Till then, farewell.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Confusion wait thy steps, thou cruel monster!—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My noble and illustrious friend betray'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">By crafty faction, and tyrannic power!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His sinking trophies, and his falling fame,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oppress my very soul. I'll to the queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Lay all their envy open to her view,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Confront their malice, and preserve my friend.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span></div>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE II.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">Presence Chamber.</p>
<p class="stagedir">The <span class="smcap">Queen</span> discovered, sitting on her Throne. <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>,
<span class="smcap">Lords</span>, and <span class="smcap">Attendants</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Without consulting me! presumptuous man!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who governs here?—What! am not I your queen?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You dared not, were he present, take this step.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> Dread sovereign, your ever faithful commons<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Have, in their gratitude and love for you,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Preferred this salutary bill against him.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> You, my Lord Burleigh, must have known of this.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The commons here impeach the Earl of Essex<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of practising against the state and me.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Methinks I might be trusted with the secret.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Speak, for I know it well, 'twas thy contrivance.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ha! was it not? You dare not say it was not.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> I own my judgment did concur with theirs.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His crimes, I fear, will justify the charge,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And vindicate their loyalty and mine.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Ha! tell not me your smooth deceitful story!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I know your projects, and your close cabals,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You'd turn my favour into party feuds,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And use my sceptre as the rod of faction:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But Henry's daughter claims a nobler soul.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I'll nurse no party, but will reign o'er all,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">And my sole rule shall be to bless my people:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who serves them best, has still my highest favour:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This Essex ever did.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">Behold, Southampton,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What a base portrait's here! The faithful Essex<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Here drawn at large, associating with rebels,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To spoil his country, and dethrone his queen!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> It is not like.—By Heaven, the hand of envy<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Drew these false lines, distorted far from truth<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And honour, and unlike my noble friend<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As light to shade, or hell to highest heaven.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then suffer not, thou best of queens, this lord,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This valiant lord, to fall a sacrifice<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To treachery and base designs; who now<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Engages death in all his horrid shapes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Amidst a hardy race, inured to danger;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But let him, face to face, this charge encounter,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every falsehood, like his foes, shall fly.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> To me you seem to recommend strict justice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In all her pomp of power. But are you sure<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No subtle vice conceal'd assumes her garb!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Take heed, that malice does not wear the mask,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor envy deck her in the borrow'd guise.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Rancour has often darken'd reason's eye,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And judgment winks, when passion holds the scale.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Impeach the very man to whom I owe<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My brightest rays of glory! Look to it, lords;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Take care, be cautious on what ground you tread;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let honest means alone secure your footing.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Raleigh and you withdraw, and wait our leisure.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span> and <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Lord Burleigh, stay; we must with you have farther<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Conference.—I see this base contrivance plain.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your jealousy and pride, your envy of<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His shining merit, brought this bill to light.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">But mark me, as you prize our high regard<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And favour, I command you to suppress it:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let not our name and power be embarrass'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In your perplexing schemes. 'Twas you began,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And therefore you must end it.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> I obey.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yet humbly would entreat you to consider<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How new, unpopular, this step must be,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To stand between your parliament's enquiry<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And this offending lord.—We have such proofs—<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Reserve your proofs to a more proper season,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And let them then appear. But once again<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">We charge you, on your duty and allegiance,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To stop this vile proceeding; and to wait<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Till Essex can defend himself in person.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If then your accusations are of force,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The laws, and my consent, no doubt, are open.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He has my strict command, with menace mix'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To end effectually this hated war,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ere he presume to quit the Irish coast.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, my duty now compels me to—<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> No more! see that my orders be obey'd.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Essex a traitor!—it can never be—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His grateful and his honest soul disdains it.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Can he prove false? so high advanced, so honour'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">So near my favour—and—I fear, so near<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My heart!—Impossible.—This Burleigh hates him,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, as his rival, therefore would destroy him;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But he shall find his narrow schemes defeated.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In vain their fraudful efforts shall combine<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To shake my settled soul, my firm design;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Resolved to lift bright virtue's palm on high,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Support her grandeur, and her foes defy.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span></div>
<h2 class="newact"><a name="ACT_THE_SECOND" id="ACT_THE_SECOND"></a>ACT THE SECOND.</h2>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE I.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">An Antichamber in the Palace.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Essex arrived! Confusion to my hopes!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His presence will destroy me with the queen.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I much suspect he had some private notice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Perhaps, a punctual order, to return.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He lurks too near her heart.—What's to be done?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Now is the important crisis—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Keep up thy usual strength, my better genius!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Direct my steps to crush my mortal foe.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth</span> and <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> It cannot be! Return'd without my leave!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Against my strict command!—Impossible!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> Madam, the earl is now at court, and begs<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">An audience of your majesty.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Amazing!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What! break his trust! desert his high command,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Forsake his post, and disobey his queen!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Tis false—invented all.—You wish it so.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, I wish some other rumours false;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Reports, I fear, of great concern to you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> What rumours? what reports? your frown would much<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Denote: your preface seems important.—Speak.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Some new commotions are of late sprung up<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In Ireland, where the west is all in arms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And moves with hasty march to join Tyrone,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all his northern clans. A dreadful power!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nay, more; we have advices from the borders,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of sudden risings, near the banks of Tweed;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Tis thought to favour an attempt from Scotland.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Meanwhile, Tyrone embarks six thousand men<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To land at Milford, and to march where Essex<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall join them with his friends.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> (<i>Apart.</i>) In league with James!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And plotting with Tyrone! It cannot be.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His very pride disdains such perfidy.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But is not Essex here without my leave!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Against my strict command! that, that's rebellion.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The rest, if true, or false, it matters not.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What's to be done?—admit him to my presence?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No, no—my dignity, my pride forbid it.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ungrateful man, approach me not; rise, rise,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Resentment, and support my soul! Disdain,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Do thou assist me—Yes, it shall be so.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> I see she muses deep;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Tyrone's invasion wakes her fear and anger,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all her soul is one continued storm.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> For once my pride shall stoop; and I will see<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This rash, audacious, this once favour'd man;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But treat him as his daring crimes deserve.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> [<i>Kneeling.</i>] Permit me, madam, to approach you thus;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thus lowly to present the humble suit<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of the much-injured, faithful Earl of Essex,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Who dares not, unpermitted, meet your presence.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He begs, most gracious queen, to fall before<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your royal feet, to clear him to his sovereign,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whom, next to heaven, he wishes most to please.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Let faction load him with her labouring hand,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His innocence shall rise against the weight,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If but his gracious mistress deign to smile.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Let him appear.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Now to thy trying task,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My soul! Put forth, exert thy utmost strength,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor let an injured queen be tame.—Lie still,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My heart, I cannot listen to thee now.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Essex</span> and <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Forgive, thou injured majesty, thou best<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of Queens, this seeming disobedience. See,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I bend submissive in your royal presence,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With soul as penitent, as if before<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The all-searching eye of Heaven. But, oh, that frown!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My queen's resentment wounds my inmost spirit,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Strikes me like death, and pierces through my heart.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> You have obey'd, my lord! you've served me well!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My deadly foes are quell'd! and you come home<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A conqueror! Your country bids you welcome!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And I, your queen, applaud!—Triumphant man!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What! is it thus that Essex gains his laurels?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What! is it thus you've borne my high commission?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How durst you disregard your trusted duty,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Desert your province, and betray your queen?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> I came to clear my injured name from guilt,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Imputed guilt, and slanderous accusations.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My shame was wafted in each passing gale,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Each swelling tide came loaded with my wrongs;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And echo sounded forth, from faction's voice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The traitor Essex.—Was't not hard, my queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That, while I stood in danger's dreadful front,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Encountering death in every shape of terror,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And bleeding for my country—Was't not hard,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My mortal enemies at home, like cowards,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Should in my absence basely blast my fame?<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> It is the godlike attribute of kings,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To raise the virtuous, and protect the brave.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I was the guardian of your reputation;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What malice, or what faction, then, could reach you?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My honour was exposed, engaged for yours:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But you found reason to dislike my care,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And to yourself assumed the wrested office.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> If aught disloyal in this bosom dwells,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If aught of treason lodges in this heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May I to guilt and lasting shame be wedded,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The sport of faction, and the mark of scorn,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The world's derision, and my queen's abhorrence.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Stand forth the villain, whose envenom'd tongue<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Would taint my honour, and traduce my name,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or stamp my conduct with a rebel's brand!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Lives there a monster in the haunts of men,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Dares tear my trophies from their pillar'd base,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Eclipse my glory, and disgrace my deeds?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> This ardent language, and this glow of soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Were nobly graceful in a better cause;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where virtue warrants, and where truth inspires:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But injured truth, with brow invincible,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Frowns stern reproof upon the false assertion,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And contradicts it with the force of facts.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From me you have appeal'd, ungrateful man!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The laws, not I, must listen to your plea.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Go, stand the test severe, abide the trial,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And mourn, too late, the bounty you abused.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt <span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth, Southampton</span>, &c.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Is this the just requital, then, of all<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My patriot toils, and oft-encounter'd perils,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Amidst the inclemencies of camps and climes?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then be it so.——Unmoved and dauntless, let me<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This shock of adverse fortune firmly stand.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span></div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Alas, my lord! the queen's displeasure kindles<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With warmth increasing; whilst Lord Burleigh labours<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">T'inflame her wrath, and make it still burn fiercer.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> I scorn the blaze of courts, the pomp of kings;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I give them to the winds, and lighter vanity;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Too long they've robb'd me of substantial bliss,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of solid happiness, and true enjoyments.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But lead me to my mourning love; alas!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She sinks beneath oppressing ills; she fades,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She dies for my afflicting pangs, and seeks<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Me, sorrowing, in the walks of woe.—Distraction!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, lead me to her, to my soul's desire.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Let caution guide you in this dangerous step.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Consider well, my lord, the consequence—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For should the queen (forbid it, Heaven!) discover<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your private loves, your plighted hands, no power<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On earth could step between you and destruction.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> My lord of Essex, 'tis the queen's command,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That you forthwith resign your staff of office;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And further, she confines you to your palace.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Welcome, my fate! Let fortune do her utmost;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I know the worst, and will confront her malice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And bravely bear the unexpected blow.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> The queen, my lord, demands your quick compliance.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Go, then, thou gladsome messenger of ill,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, joyful, feast thy fierce rapacious soul<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With Essex' sudden and accomplish'd fall.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The trampled corse of all his envy'd greatness,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Lies prostrate now beneath thy savage feet;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But still th' exalted spirit moves above thee.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Go, tell the queen thy own detested story:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Full in her sight disclose the snaky labyrinths,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And lurking snares, you plant in virtue's path,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To catch integrity's unguarded step.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Your country has impeach'd, your queen accused you;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To these address your best defence, and clear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your question'd conduct from disloyal guilt.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What answer to the queen shall I return?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> My staff of office I from her received,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And will to her, and her alone, resign it.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> This bold refusal will incense the queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This arrogance will make your guilt the stronger.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Sustain, my noble friend, thy wonted greatness;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Collect thy fortitude, and summon all<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy soul, to bear with strength this crushing weight,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which falls severe upon thee; whilst my friendship<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall lend a helping hand, and share the burden.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I'll hence with speed, and to the queen repair,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all the power of warmest words employ,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To gain you yet one audience more, and bring<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Her majesty to milder thoughts. Farewell.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> As newly waked from all my dreams of glory,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Those gilded visions of deceitful joys,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I stand confounded at the unlook'd-for change,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And scarcely feel this thunderbolt of fate.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The painted clouds, which bore my hopes aloft,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Alas, are now vanish'd to yielding air,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And I am fall'n indeed!—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How weak is reason, when affection pleads!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How hard to turn the fond, deluded heart<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From flatt'ring toys, which sooth'd its vanity!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The laurell'd trophy, and the loud applause,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The victor's triumph, and the people's gaze;<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">The high-hung banner, and recording gold,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Subdue me still, still cling around my heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pull my reason down.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Rutland</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh, let me fly,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To clasp, embrace, the lord of my desires,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My soul's delight, my utmost joy, my husband!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Once more I hold him in my eager arms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Behold his face, and lose my soul in rapture!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Transporting bliss! my richest, dearest treasure!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My mourning turtle, my long-absent peace,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, come yet nearer, nearer to my heart!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My raptured soul springs forward, to receive thee:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thou heaven on earth, thou balm of all my woe!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh, shall I credit, then, each ravish'd sense?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Has pitying Heaven consented to my prayer?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It has, it has; my Essex is return'd!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But language poorly speaks the joys I feel;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let passion paint, and looks express my soul.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> With thee, my sweetest comfort, I'll retire<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From splendid palaces, and glitt'ring throngs,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To live embosom'd in the shades of joy,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where sweet content extends her friendly arms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And gives increasing love a lasting welcome.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With thee, I'll timely fly from proud oppression.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Forget our sorrows, and be bless'd for ever.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh! let us hence, beyond the reach of power,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where fortune's hand shall never part us more!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In this calm state of innocence and joy,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I'll press thee to my throbbing bosom close.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ambition's voice shall call in vain; the world,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The thankless world, shall never claim thee more,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all thy business shall be love and me.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> The queen, incensed at my return, abandons me<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To Cecil's malice, and the rage of faction.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">I'm now no more the fav'rite child of fortune:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My enemies have caught me in the toil,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And life has nothing worth my wish but thee.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Delusive dream of fancied happiness!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And has my fatal fondness then destroy'd thee?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, have I lured thee to the deadly snare<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy cruel foes have laid?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I dreaded Cecil's malice, and my heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Longing to see thee, with impatience listen'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To its own alarms; and prudence sunk beneath<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The force of love.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Forbear, my only comfort;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, tell me not of danger, death, and Burleigh;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let every star shed down its mortal bane<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On my unshelter'd head: whilst thus I fold<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thee in my raptured arms, I'll brave them all,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Defy my fate, and meet its utmost rigour.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Alas, my lord! consider where we are.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, 'tis the queen's apartment;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Each precious moment is by fate beset,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And time stands trembling whilst we thus confer.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Then, let us hence from this detested place;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My rescued soul disdains the house of greatness,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where humble honesty can find no shelter.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From hence we'll fly, where love and greatness call;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where happiness invites—that wish of all:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With sweet content enjoy each blissful hour,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Beyond the smiles of fraud, or frowns of power.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span></div>
<h2 class="newact"><a name="ACT_THE_THIRD" id="ACT_THE_THIRD"></a>ACT THE THIRD.</h2>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE I.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">An Apartment in the Palace.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span> and <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> My lord, I've sought you out with much impatience.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You've had an audience of the queen: what follow'd?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Soon as I told her, Essex had refused<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To yield his dignities, and staff of office,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Against her high command, pronounced by me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She seem'd deprived of reason for a moment;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Her working mind betray'd contending passions;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She paused, like thunder in some kindling cloud,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then instant burst with dreadful fury forth:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">"And has th' ungrateful wretch defy'd my mandate?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The proud, audacious traitor, scorn'd my power?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He dares not, sure?—He dies—the villain dies!"<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I instantly withdrew,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But soon was countermanded, and desired<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To bring the Earl of Essex to her presence.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I like it not; and much I fear she'll stand<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Between this high offender and the laws.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Is Essex then secured?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, he is;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And now comes guarded to the court.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Gentleman</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Gent.</i> Madam, the queen<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is in her closet, and desires to see you.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span><span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> I attend her.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> She wants, no doubt, to be advised by you.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Improve this fair occasion, urge it home.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> I know her foible. Essex long has had<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">An interest in her heart, which nothing can<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">O'erturn, except his own ungovern'd spirit:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It is, indeed, the instrument by which<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">We work, and cannot fail, if rightly used.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, the queen expects you instantly.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I must withdraw, and wait the earl's arrival.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt severally.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE II</h3>
<p class="stagedir">The Queen's Closet.</p>
<p class="stagedir"><span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth</span> discovered.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Ill-fated, wretched man! perverse and obstinate!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He counterworks my grace, and courts destruction.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He gives his deadly foes the dagger to<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Destroy him, and defeats my friendly purpose,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which would, by seeming to abandon, save him.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor will he keep the mask of prudence on<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A moment's space.—What! must I bear this scorn!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No: let me all the monarch re-assume;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Exert my power, and be myself again.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, ill-performing, disobedient, heart!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Why shrink'st thou, fearful, from thy own resolve?<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">Thou comest in time; I'm much disturb'd, abused,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My Nottingham, and would complain to thee<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Of insolence, neglect, and high contempt.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Essex presumed to dictate laws within<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My palace gates. How say'st thou, Nottingham?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Surely, my gracious queen, it cannot be!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His heat and passion never could impel him<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To take so bold a step, to such rash guilt:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Methinks his very honour should prevent it.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> This haughty man has wanton'd with my grace,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Abused my bounty, and despised my favours.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> His conduct has, I fear, been too unguarded:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His hasty temper knows not where to stop.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ambition is the spur of all his actions,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which often drives him o'er his duty's limits;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">(At least his enemies would have it so.)<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But malice, madam, seldom judges right.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Oh, Nottingham! his pride is past enduring;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This insolent, audacious man, forgets<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His honour and allegiance;—and refused<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To render up his staff of office, here,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Beneath my very eye.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Presumptuous man!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your faithful subjects will resent this pride,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This insolence, this treason to their queen;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">They must, my gracious sovereign. 'Tis not safe<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To shield him longer from their just resentment.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then give him up to justice and the laws.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> You seem well pleased to urge severity.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Offended majesty but seldom wants<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such sharp advisers—Yet no attribute<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">So well befits the exalted seat supreme,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And power's disposing hand, as clemency.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Each crime must from its quality be judged;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pity there should interpose, where malice<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is not the aggressor.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Madam, my sentiments were well intended;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Justice, not malice, moved my honest zeal.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">My words were echoes of the public voice,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which daily rises, with repeated cries<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of high complaint against this haughty lord.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I pity, from my heart, his rash attempts,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And much esteem the man.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Go, Nottingham,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My mind's disturbed, and send me Rutland hither.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">O vain distinction of exalted state!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No rank ascends above the reach of care,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor dignity can shield a queen from woe.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Despotic nature's stronger sceptre rules,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pain and passion in her right prevails.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, the unpity'd lot, severe condition,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of solitary, sad, dejected grandeur!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Alone condemn'd to bear th' unsocial throb<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of heartfelt anguish, and corroding grief;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Deprived of what, within his homely shed,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The poorest peasant in affliction finds,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The kind, condoling, comfort of a dear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Partaking friend.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Rutland</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">Rutland, I want thy timely<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Counsel. I'm importuned, and urged to punish—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But justice, sometimes, has a cruel sound.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Essex has,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No doubt, provoked my anger, and the laws;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His haughty conduct calls for sharp reproof,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And just correction. Yet I think him guiltless<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of studied treasons, or design'd rebellion.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then, tell me, Rutland, what the world reports,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What censure says of his unruly deeds.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> The world, with envy's eye, beholds his merit;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Madam, 'tis malice all, and false report.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I know his noble heart, 'tis fill'd with honour;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No trait'rous taint has touch'd his generous soul;<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">His grateful mind still glows with pure affection;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all his thoughts are loyalty and you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> I grant you, Rutland, all you say; and think<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The earl possess'd of many splendid virtues.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What pity 'tis, he should afford his foes<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such frequent, sad occasions to undo him!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> What human heart can, unafflicted, bear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such manly merit in distress, beset<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">By cruel foes, and faction's savage cry?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My good, my gracious mistress, stretch, betimes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your saving arm, and snatch him from destruction,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From deadly malice, treachery, and Cecil.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, let him live, to clear his conduct up!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My gracious queen, he'll nobly earn your bounty,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And with his dearest blood deserve your mercy.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Her words betray a warm, unusual, fervour;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Mere friendship never could inspire this transport.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Aside.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I never doubted but the earl was brave;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His life and valiant actions all declare it:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I think him honest too, but rash and headstrong.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I gladly would preserve him from his foes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And therefore am resolved once more to see him.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh, 'tis a godlike thought, and Heav'n itself<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Inspires it. Sure some angel moves your heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your royal heart, to pity and forgiveness.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This gracious deed shall shine in future story,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And deck your annals with the brightest virtue;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Posterity shall praise the princely act,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And ages yet to come record your goodness.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> I'll hear no more—Must I then learn from you<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To know my province, and be taught to move,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As each designing mind directs?—Leave me.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Her frowns are dreadful, and her eye looks terror.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">I tremble for my Essex. Save him, Heav'n!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Her warmth has touch'd me home. My jealous heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My fearful and suspicious soul's alarm'd.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>, <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>, and <span class="smcap">Gentlemen</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> The Earl of Essex waits your royal will.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Let him approach—And now once more support<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy dignity, my soul; nor yield thy greatness<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To strong usurping passion—But he comes.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Essex</span> and <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Permitted thus to bend, with prostrate heart,<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Kneels.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Before your sacred majesty; I come,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With every grateful sense of royal favour<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Deeply engraved within my conscious soul.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> I sent my orders for your staff of office.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Madam, my envy'd dignities and honours,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I first from your own royal hand received,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And therefore justly held it far beneath me<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To yield my trophies, and exalted power,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">So dearly purchased in the field of glory,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To hands unworthy. No, my gracious queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I meant to lay them at your royal feet;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where life itself a willing victim falls,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If you command.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> High swelling words, my lord, but ill supply<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The place of deeds, and duty's just demand.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In danger's onset, and the day of trial,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Conviction still on acting worth attends;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whilst mere professions are by doubts encumber'd.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> My deeds have oft declared in danger's front<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How far my duty and my valour lead me.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Allegiance still my thirst of glory fired,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And all my bravely gather'd, envy'd laurels<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Were purchased only to adorn my queen:<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Your guilty scorn of my entrusted power,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">When with my mortal foes you tamely dally'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">By hardy rebels braved, you poorly sought<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A servile pause, and begg'd a shameful truce.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Should Essex thus, so meanly compromise,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And lose the harvest of a plenteous glory,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In idle treaties, and suspicious parley?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> O, deadly stroke! My life's the destined mark.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The poison'd shaft has drank my spirits deep.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is't come to this? Conspire with rebels! Ha!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I've served you, madam, with the utmost peril,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And ever gloried in th' illustrious danger,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where famine faced me with her meagre mien,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pestilence and death brought up her train.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I've fought your battles, in despite of nature,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where seasons sicken'd, and the clime was fate.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My power to parley, or to fight, I had<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From you; the time and circumstance did call<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Aloud for mutual treaty and condition;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For that I stand a guarded felon here; a traitor,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Hemm'd in by villains, and by slaves surrounded.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Shall added insolence, with crest audacious,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Her front uplift against the face of power?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Think not that injured majesty will bear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such arrogance uncheck'd, or unchastised.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No public trust becomes the man, who treads,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With scornful steps, in honour's sacred path,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And stands at bold defiance with his duty.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Away with dignities and hated trust,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With flattering honours, and deceitful power!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Invert th' eternal rules of right and justice;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let villains thrive, and outcast virtue perish;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let slaves be raised, and cowards have command.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Take, take your gaudy trifles back, those baits<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of vice, and virtue's bane. 'Tis clear, my queen,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">My royal mistress, casts me off; nay, joins<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With Cecil to destroy my life and fame.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Presuming wretch! Audacious traitor!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Traitor!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Hence from my sight, ungrateful slave, and learn<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">At distance to revere your queen!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Yes; let<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Me fly beyond the limits of the world,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And nature's verge, from proud oppression far,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From malice, tyranny, from courts, from you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Traitor! villain!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Strikes him.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Confusion! what, a blow!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Restrain, good Heaven! down, down, thou rebel passion,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, judgment, take the reins. Madam, 'tis well—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your soldier falls degraded;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His glory's tarnish'd, and his fame undone.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">O, bounteous recompence from royal hands!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But you, ye implements, beware, beware,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What honour wrong'd, and honest wrath can act.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> What would th' imperious traitor do?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My life<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Beyond thy wretched purpose stands secure.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Go, learn at leisure what your deeds deserve,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And tremble at the vengeance you provoke.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt all but <span class="smcap">Essex</span> and <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Disgraced and struck! Damnation! Death were glorious!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Revenge! revenge!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Alas, my friend! what would<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy rage attempt? Consider well the great<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Advantage now your rash, ungovern'd temper<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Affords your foes. The queen, incensed, will let<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Their fury loose.—I dread the dire event!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Has honest pride no just resentment left?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor injured honour, feeling?—Not revenge!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">High Heaven shall hear, and earth regret, my wrongs.<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Hot indignation burns within my soul.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I'll do some dreadful thing!—I know not what;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Some deeds, as horrid as the shame I feel,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall startle nature, and alarm the world.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then hence, like lightning, let me furious fly,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To hurl destruction at my foes on high;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Pull down oppression from its tyrant seat,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Redeem my glory, or embrace my fate.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<h2 class="newact">ACT THE FOURTH.</h2>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE I.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">The Palace.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth</span> and <span class="smcap">Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Not taken yet?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> No, madam: for the Earl<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of Essex, leagued with desperate friends, made strong<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And obstinate resistance; till, at length,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">O'erpower'd by numbers, and increasing force,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He fled for shelter to a small retreat,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A summer-house, upon the Thames; resolved<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To perish, rather than submit to power.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Oh, where shall majesty bestow its favours,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Since Essex has a traitor proved to me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whose arm hath raised him up to power and greatness;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whose heart has shared in all his splendid triumphs,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">And feels, ev'n now, his trait'rous deeds with pity?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But hence with pity, and the woman's pangs:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Resentment governs, and the queen shall punish.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Illustrious queen! the traitors all are seized.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Their black debates<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Were held at Drury House. The dire result<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Was this: that Essex should alarm the citizens<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To open mutiny, and bold rebellion.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Their purpose was to seize your royal palace,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And sacred person; but your faithful people,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As by one mind inform'd, one zeal inspired,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Rose up at once, and with their virtue quell'd them.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Thanks to their honest, to their loyal hearts!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But say, were any persons else concern'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of high distinction, or of noted rank?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Yes, madam, many more;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Mong whom the bold Southampton foremost stands.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">They're now our prisoners, and are safe secured;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But Essex, with Southampton, and the rest<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of greater note, I would not dare dispose of<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Without your royal mandate; and they now<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Attend without, to know your final pleasure.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Is this the just return of all my care?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My anxious toilsome days, and watchful nights?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Have I sent forth a wish, that went not freighted<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With all my people's good? Or have I life,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or length of days desired, but for their sake?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The public good is all my private care!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then could I think this grateful isle<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Contain'd one traitor's heart? But, least of all,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That Essex' breast should lodge it? Call the monster,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And let me meet this rebel face to face!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Do you withdraw, and wait within our call.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span> and <span class="smcap">Nottingham</span>.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir"><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span>Enter <span class="smcap">Essex</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">You see, we dare abide your dangerous presence,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Though treason sits within your heart enthroned,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And on that brow rebellion lours, where once<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Such boasted loyalty was said to flourish.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How low the traitor can degrade the soldier!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Guilt glares in conscious dye upon thy cheek,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And inward horror trembles in thine eye.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How mean is fraud! How base ingratitude!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Forbear reproach, thou injured majesty,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor wound with piercing looks, a heart already<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With anguish torn, and bleeding with remorse.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your awful looks, alone, are arm'd with death,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And justice gives them terror.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Hapless man!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What cause could prompt, what fiend could urge thee on<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To this detested deed? Could I from thee<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Expect to meet this base return? from thee,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To whom I ought to fly with all the confidence<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That giving bounty ever could inspire,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or seeming gratitude and worth could promise?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Alas! I own my crimes, and feel my treasons;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">They press me down beneath the reach of pity.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Despair alone can shield me from myself.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> My pride forbids me to reproach thee more;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My pity, rather, would relieve thy sorrow.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The people's clamours, and my special safety,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Call loud for justice, and demand your life.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But if forgiveness from an injured queen<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Can make the few short hours you live more easy,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I give it freely, from my pitying heart;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And wish my willing power could grant thee more.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh, let me prostrate thus before you fall,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My better angel, and my guardian genius!<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Permit me, royal mistress, to announce<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My faithful sentiments, my soul's true dictates;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Vouchsafe your Essex but this one request,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This only boon—he'll thank you with his last,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His dying breath, and bless you in his passage.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Rise, my lord!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If aught you have to offer can allay<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your woes, and reconcile you to your fate,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Proceed;—and I with patient ear will listen.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> My real errors, and my seeming crimes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Would weary mercy, and make goodness poor;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And yet the source of all my greatest faults<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Was loyalty misled, and duty in extreme.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">So jealous was my sanguine heart, so warm<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Affection's zeal, I could not bear the least<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Suspicion of my duty to my queen.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This drove me from my high command in Ireland;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This, too, impell'd me to that rude behaviour,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which justly urged the shameful blow I felt;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And this, O fatal rashness! made me think<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My queen had given her Essex up, a victim<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To statesmen's schemes, and wicked policy.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Stung by that piercing thought, my madness flew<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Beyond all bounds, and now, alas! has brought me<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To this most shameful fall; and, what's still worse,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My own reproaches, and my queen's displeasure.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Unhappy man! My yielding soul is touch'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pity pleads thy cause within my breast.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Say, but, my gracious sovereign, ere I go<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For ever from your presence, that you think me<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Guiltless of all attempts against your throne,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And sacred life. Your faithful Essex ne'er<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Could harbour in his breast so foul a thought.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Believe it not, my queen. By heaven, I swear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">When in my highest pitch of glory raised,—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The splendid noon of Fortune's brightest sunshine,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span>—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Not ages of renown,—could yield me half<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The joy, nor make my life so greatly blest,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As saving yours, though for a single hour.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> My lord, I would convince you, that I still<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Regard your life, and labour to preserve it;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But cannot screen you from a public trial.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With prudence make your best defence; but should<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Severity her iron jurisdiction<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Extend too far, and give thee up condemn'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To angry laws, thy queen will not forget thee.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yet, lest you then should want a faithful friend<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">(For friends will fly you in the time of need)<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Here, from my finger, take this ring, a pledge<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of mercy; having this, you ne'er shall need<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">An advocate with me, for whensoe'er<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You give, or send it back, by heaven, I swear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As I do hope for mercy on my soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That I will grant whatever boon you ask.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh, grace surprising! most amazing goodness!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Words cannot paint, the transports of my soul!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let me receive it on my grateful knees,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">At once to thank, and bless the hand that gives it.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Depend, my lord, on this—'twixt you and me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This ring shall be a private mark of faith<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Gives the ring.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Inviolate. Be confident; cheer up;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Dispel each melancholy fear, and trust<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your sovereign's promise—she will ne'er forsake you.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Let Providence dispose my lot as 'twill,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May watchful angels ever guard my queen;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May healing wisdom in her councils reign,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And firm fidelity surround her throne;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May victory her dreaded banners bear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And joyful conquests crown her soldiers' brow;<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Let every bliss be mingled in her cup,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And Heaven, at last, become her great reward.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> 'Tis done;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And yet foreboding tremors shake my heart.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Something sits heavy here, and presses down<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My spirits with its weight. What can it mean?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Suppose he is condemn'd! my royal word<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is plighted for his life; his enemies,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No doubt, will censure much.—No matter; let them;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I know him honest, and despise their malice.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Countess</span> of <span class="smcap">Rutland</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Where is the queen? I'll fall before her feet<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Prostrate; implore, besiege her royal heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And force her to forgive.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> What means this phrensy?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh, gracious queen! if ever pity touch'd<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your generous breast, let not the cruel axe<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Destroy his precious life; preserve my Essex,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My life, my hope, my joy, my all, my husband!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Husband!—What sudden, deadly blow is this!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Hold up, my soul, nor sink beneath this wound.——<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You beg a traitor's life!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Oh, gracious queen!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He ever loved—was ever faithful—brave!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If nature dwells about your heart, oh, spurn<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Me not!—My lord! my love! my husband bleeds!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Take her away.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> I cannot let you go.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Hold off your hands!—Here on this spot I'll fix—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Here lose all sense. Still let me stretch these arms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Inexorable queen!—He yet may live.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, give him to my poor, afflicted heart!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">One pitying look, to save me from distraction.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span><span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> I'll hear no more. I'm tortured—take her hence.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Nay, force me not away.—Inhuman wretches!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, mercy, mercy!—Then to thee, good Heaven,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">(My queen, my cruel queen, denies to hear me!)<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To thee, for mercy bend.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Melt down her bosom's frozen sense, to feel<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Some portion of my deadly grief, my fell<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Distraction.—Turn, oh, turn, and see a wife,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A tortured wife——<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Why am I not obey'd?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Nay, do not thus<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Abandon me to fell despair. Just Heaven,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That sees my sorrows, will avenge the wrong,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This cruel wrong—this barbarous tyranny.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Forced off.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Wedded to Rutland! Most unhappy pair!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, oh, ill-fated queen! Never till now<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Did sorrow settle in my heart its throne.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Recall my pledge of safety from his hands,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And give him up to death!—But life or death<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To me is equal now.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Unhappy state, where peace shall never come!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">One fatal moment has confirm'd my doom—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Turn'd all my comfort to intestine strife,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And fill'd with mortal pangs my future life!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></div>
<h2 class="newact"><a name="ACT_THE_FIFTH" id="ACT_THE_FIFTH"></a>ACT THE FIFTH.</h2>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE I.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">A Room in the Tower.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span> and <span class="smcap">Lieutenant</span> of the <span class="smcap">Tower</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> Their peers, with much indulgence, heard their plea,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And gave them ample scope for their defence;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But naught avail'd—their crimes were too notorious.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">They bore their sentence with becoming spirit;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And here's the royal mandate for their deaths.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The Lady Nottingham! What brings her hither?<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Lieutenant, lead me to the Earl of Essex,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I bring a message to him from the queen.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> He's with his friend, the brave Southampton, madam,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Preparing now for his expected fate.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But I'll acquaint his lordship with your pleasure.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> What means this message? Does the queen relent?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> I fear she does;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Go you to court, for Cecil there expects you.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I've promised to acquaint him with what passes<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Twixt me and Essex, ere I see the queen.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> Madam, I go.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Now, vengeance, steel my heart!<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Offended woman, whilst her pride remains,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To malice only, and revenge, will bow;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every virtue at that altar sacrifice.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But see, he comes, with manly sorrow clad.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">There was a time, that presence could subdue<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My pride, and melt my heart to gentle pity.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I then could find no joy but in his smiles,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And thought him lovely as the summer's bloom;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But all his beauties are now hateful grown.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Essex</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Whether you bring me death, or life, I know not.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But, if strict friendship, and remembrance past,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May aught presage to my afflicted heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Sure mercy only from those lips should flow,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And grace be utter'd from that friendly tongue.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> My lord, I'm glad you think me still your friend.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I come not to upbraid, but serve you now;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And pleased I am to be the messenger<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of such glad tidings, in the day of trouble,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As I now bring you. When the queen had heard,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That by the lords you were condemn'd to die,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She sent me, in her mercy, here to know<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">If you had aught to offer, that might move<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Her royal clemency to spare your life.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Could any circumstance new lustre add<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To my dread sovereign's goodness, 'tis the making<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The kind, the generous Nottingham its messenger.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> 'Tis well, my lord; but there's no time to spare—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The queen impatient waits for my return.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> My heart was wishing for some faithful friend,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And bounteous Heaven hath sent thee to my hopes.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Know then, kind Nottingham, for now I'll trust<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thee with the dearest secret of my life,<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">'Tis not long since, the queen (who well foresaw<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To what the malice of my foes would drive me)<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Gave me this ring, this sacred pledge of mercy;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And with it made a solemn vow to Heaven,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That, whensoever I should give, or send<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It back again, she'd freely grant whate'er<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Request I then should make.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Give, give it me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My lord! and let me fly, on friendship's wings,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To bear it to the queen, and to it add<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My prayers and influence to preserve thy life.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh! take it then—it is the pledge of life!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh! it is my dear Southampton's<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Last, last remaining stay! his thread of being,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which more than worlds I prize!—Oh, take it, then;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Take it, thou guardian angel of my life,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And offer up the incense of my prayer!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, beg, entreat, implore her majesty,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From public shame, and ignominious death,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And from the obdurate axe, to save my friend.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> My lord, with all the powers that nature gave<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And friendship can inspire, I'll urge the queen<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To grant you your request.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Kind Nottingham!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your pious offices shall ever be<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My fervent theme; and if my doubtful span<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Relenting Heaven should stretch to years remote,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Each passing hour shall still remind my thoughts,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And tell me, that I owe my all to thee:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My friend shall thank you too for lengthen'd life.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And now I fly with comfort to his arms,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To let him know the mercy that you bring.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span></div>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE II.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">The Court.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth</span> and <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Ha! is not Nottingham return'd?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> No, madam.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Dispatch a speedy messenger to haste her.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My agitated heart can find no rest.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">So near the brink of fate—-unhappy man!<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lady Nottingham</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">How now, my Nottingham—what news from Essex?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What says the earl?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> I wish, with all my soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The ungrateful task had been another's lot.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I dread to tell it—lost, ill-fated man!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> What means this mystery, this strange behaviour?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Pronounce—declare at once; what said the earl?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Alas, my queen! I fear to say; his mind<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is in the strangest mood that ever pride<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On blackest thoughts begot.——He scarce would speak;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And when he did, it was with sullenness,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With hasty tone, and downcast look.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Amazing!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Not feel the terrors of approaching death!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor yet the joyful dawn of promised life!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> He rather seem'd insensible to both,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And with a cold indifference heard your offer;<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Till warming up, by slow degrees, resentment<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Began to swell his restless haughty mind;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And proud disdain provoked him to exclaim<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Aloud, against the partial power of fortune,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And faction's rage. I begg'd him to consider<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His sad condition; nor repulse, with scorn,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The only hand that could preserve him.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Ha!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What!—Said he nothing of a private import?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No circumstance—no pledge—no ring?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> None, madam!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But, with contemptuous front, disclaim'd at once<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Your proffer'd grace; and scorn'd, he said, a life<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Upon such terms bestow'd.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Impossible!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Could Essex treat me thus?—You basely wrong him,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And wrest his meaning from the purposed point.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Recall betimes the horrid words you've utter'd:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Confess, and own the whole you've said was false.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Not.</i> Madam, by truth, and duty, both compell'd,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Against the pleadings of my pitying soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I must declare (Heaven knows with what reluctance),<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That never pride insulted mercy more.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">He ran o'er all the dangers he had past;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His mighty deeds; his service to the state;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Accused your majesty of partial leaning<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To favourite lords, to whom he falls a sacrifice;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Appeals to justice, and to future times,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How much he feels from proud oppression's arm:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nay, something too he darkly hinted at,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of jealous disappointment, and revenge.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Eternal silence seal thy venom'd lips<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What hast thou utter'd, wretch, to rouse at once<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A whirlwind in my soul, which roots up pity,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And destroys my peace!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let him this instant to the block be led.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit <span class="smcap">Nottingham</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Upbraid me with my fatal fondness for him!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ungrateful, barbarous ruffian! O, Elizabeth!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Remember now thy long-establish'd fame,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy envy'd glory, and thy father's spirit.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Accuse me of injustice too, and cruelty!—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Yes, I'll this instant to the Tower, forget<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My regal state, and to his face confront him:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Confound the audacious villain with my presence,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And add new terrors to the uplifted axe.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<h3 class="scene">SCENE III.</h3>
<p class="stagedir">The Tower.</p>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Essex</span> and <span class="smcap">Southampton</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh, name it not! my friend shall live—he shall!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I know her royal mercy, and her goodness,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Will give you back to life, to length of days,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And me to honour, loyalty, and truth.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Death is still distant far.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> In life's first spring,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Our green affections grew apace and prosper'd;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The genial summer swell'd our joyful hearts,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To meet and mix each growing fruitful wish.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">We're now embark'd upon that stormy flood,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where all the wise and brave are gone before us,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">E'er since the birth of time, to meet eternity.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And what is death, did we consider right?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall we, who sought him in the paths of terror,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And faced him in the dreadful walks of war,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall we astonish'd shrink, like frighted infants,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And start at scaffolds, and their gloomy trappings?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span><span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Yet, still I trust long years remain of friendship.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let smiling hope drive doubt and fear away,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And death be banish'd far; where creeping age,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Disease, and care, invite him to their dwelling.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I feel assurance rise within my breast,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That all will yet be well.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Count not on hope—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">We never can take leave, my friend, of life,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On nobler terms. Life! what is life? A shadow!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Its date is but the immediate breath we draw;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor have we surety for a second gale;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ten thousand accidents in ambush lie<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For the embody'd dream.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A frail and fickle tenement it is,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which, like the brittle glass that measures time,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Is often broke, ere half its sands are run.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Such cold philosophy the heart disdains,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And friendship shudders at the moral tale.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My friend, the fearful precipice is past,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And danger dare not meet us more. Fly swift,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ye better angels, waft the welcome tidings<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of pardon to my friend—of life and joy!<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Lieutenant</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> I grieve to be the messenger of woe,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But must, my lords, entreat you to prepare<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For instant death. Here is the royal mandate,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That orders your immediate execution.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Immediate execution! what, so sudden?—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">No message from the queen, or Nottingham!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> None, sir.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Deluded hopes! Oh, worse than death!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Perfidious queen! to make a mock of life!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My friend—my friend destroy'd! Why could not mine<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span>—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My life atone for both—my blood appease?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Can you, my friend, forgive me?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Yes, oh yes,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My bosom's better half, I can.—With thee,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I'll gladly seek the coast unknown, and leave<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The lessening mark of irksome life behind.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With thee, my friend, 'tis joy to die!—'tis glory!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For who would wait the tardy stroke of time?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or cling like reptiles to the verge of being,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">When we can bravely leap from life at once,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And spring, triumphant, in a friend's embrace?<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Raleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Ral.</i> To you, my Lord Southampton, from the queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A pardon comes; your life her mercy spares.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> For ever blest be that indulgent power<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which saves my friend! This weight ta'en off, my soul<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall upward spring, and mingle with the bless'd.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> All-ruling Heavens! can this—can this be just?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Support me! hold, ye straining heart-strings, hold,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And keep my sinking frame from dissolution!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, 'tis too much for mortal strength to bear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or thought to suffer!—No, I'll die with thee!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">They shall not part us, Essex!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Live, oh, live!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thou noblest, bravest, best of men and friends!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whilst life is worth thy wish—till time and thou<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Agree to part, and nature send thee to me!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thou generous soul, farewell!——Live, and be happy!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, oh! may life make largely up to thee<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whatever blessing fate has thus cut off,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From thy departing friend!<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span></div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> My lord, my warrant<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Strictly forbids to grant a moment's time.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> Oh, must we part for ever? Cruel fortune!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Wilt thou then tear him hence?—Severe divorce!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let me cling round thy sacred person still,—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Still clasp thee to my bosom close, and keep<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Stern Fate at distance.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh, my friend! we'll meet<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Again, where virtue finds a just reward!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where factious malice never more can reach us!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I need not bid thee guard my fame from wrongs:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, oh! a dearer treasure to thy care<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I trust, than either life or fame—my wife!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, she will want a friend!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then take her to thy care—do thou pour balm<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On her deep-wounded spirit, and let her find<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My tender helps in thee!—I must be gone,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My ever faithful, and my gallant friend!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I pr'ythee, leave this woman's work.—Farewell!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Take this last, dear embrace—Farewell for ever!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>South.</i> My bursting breast! I fain would speak, but words<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Are poor—Farewell!—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But we shall meet again—embrace in one<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Eternal band, which never shall be loosed.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> To death's concluding stroke, lead on, Lieutenant.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My wife!—Now reason, fortitude, support me!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For now, indeed, comes on my sorest trial.<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Countess</span> of <span class="smcap">Rutland</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, thou last, dear reserve of fortune's malice!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For fate can add no more,—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, com'st thou now to arrest my parting soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And force it back to life?<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span><span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Thou sole delight—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thou only joy which life could ever give,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or death deprive me of—my wedded lord!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I come, with thee, determined to endure<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The utmost rigour of our angry stars!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To join thee, fearless, in the grasp of death,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And seek some dwelling in a world beyond it!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Too much, thou partner of this dismal hour,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Thy gen'rous soul would prompt thee to endure!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor can thy tender, trembling, heart sustain it.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Long years of bliss remain in store for thee;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And smiling time his treasures shall unfold<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To bribe thy stay!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Thou cruel comforter!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Alas! what's life—what's hated life to me?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Alas, this universe, this goodly frame,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall all as one continued curse appear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every object blast, when thou art gone.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Oh, strain not thus the little strength I've left,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The weak support that holds up life! to bear<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">A few short moments more, its weight of woe,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Its loss of thee! Oh, turn away those eyes!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor with that look melt down my fix'd resolve!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And yet a little longer let me gaze<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">On that loved form! Alas! I feel my sight<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Grows dim, and reason from her throne retires:<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">For pity's sake, let go my breaking heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And leave me to my fate!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Why wilt thou still<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of parting talk?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, that the friendly hand of Heaven would snatch<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Us both at once, above the distant stars,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Where fortune's venom'd shafts can never pierce,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nor cruel queens destroy!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> The awful Searcher, whose impartial eye<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">Explores the secrets of each human heart,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every thought surveys, can witness for me,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">How close thy image clings around my soul!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Retards each rising wish, and draws me back<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To life, entangled by that loved idea!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> My lord,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It now grows late.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Lead on.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Stay, stay, my love! my dearest, dying lord!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ah! whither wouldst thou go? Ah, do not leave me!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Faints.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> Thou sinking excellence! thou matchless woman!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Shall fortune rob me of thy dear embrace,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Or earth's whole power, or death divide us now?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Stay, stay, thou spotless, injured saint!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> My lord, already you have been indulged<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Beyond what I can warrant by my orders.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> One moment more<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Afford me to my sorrows—Oh, look there!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Could bitter anguish pierce your heart, like mine,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">You'd pity now the mortal pangs I feel,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The throbs that tear my vital strings away,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And rend my agonizing soul.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Lieut.</i> My lord——<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Essex.</i> But one short moment, and I will attend.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ye sacred ministers, that virtue guard,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And shield the righteous in the paths of peril,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Restore her back to life, and lengthen'd years<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Of joy! dry up her bleeding sorrows all!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, cancel from her thoughts this dismal hour,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And blot my image from her sad remembrance!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">'Tis done.—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And now, ye trembling cords of life, give way!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Nature and time, let go your hold!—Eternity<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Demands me.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt <span class="smcap">Essex</span> and <span class="smcap">Lieutenant</span>.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Where has my lost, benighted soul been wand'ring?<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span>—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What means this mist, that hangs about my mind,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Through which reflection's painful eye discerns<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Imperfect forms and horrid shapes of woe?—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The cloud dispels, the shades withdraw, and all<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My dreadful fate appears.—Oh! where's my lord?—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My life! my Essex! Oh! whither have they ta'en him?<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Queen Elizabeth</span> and <span class="smcap">Attendants</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> To execution!—Fly with lightning's wing,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And save him!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Be calm, he shall not die! Rise up—I came<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To save his life.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> 'Tis mercy's voice that speaks!—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My Essex shall again be mine! My queen,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My bounteous, gracious queen, has said the word!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">May troops of angels guard thy sacred life!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, in thy latest moments, waft thy soul,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To meet that mercy in the realms of joy,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Which, now, thy royal goodness grants to me!<br /></span>
</div>
<p class="stagedir">Enter <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</p>
<div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> Madam, your orders came, alas! too late.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ere they arrived, the axe had fallen on Essex.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Ha! dead! What hell is this, that opens round me?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What fiend art thou, that draws the horrid scene?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Ah! Burleigh! bloody murd'rer! where's my husband?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh! where's my lord, my Essex?<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Destruction seize, and madness rend my brain!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">See,—see they bend him to the fatal block!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Now—now the horrid axe is lifted high—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It falls—it falls!—he bleeds—he bleeds! he dies!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span><span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Alas! her sorrows pierce my suffering heart!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Rut.</i> Eternal discord tear the social world,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And nature's laws dissolve! expunge—erase<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The hated marks of Time's engraving hand,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And every trace destroy! Arise, Despair!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Assert thy rightful claim—possess me all!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Bear, bear me to my murder'd lord—to clasp<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">His bleeding body in my dying arms!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And, in the tomb, embrace his dear remains,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And mingle with his dust—for ever!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exit.</i><br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Hapless woman!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">She shall henceforth be partner of my sorrows,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And we'll contend who most shall weep for Essex.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Oh, quick to kill, and ready to destroy!<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>To <span class="smcap">Burleigh</span>.</i><br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Could no pretext be found—no cause appear,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To lengthen mercy out a moment more,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">And stretch the span of grace?—Oh, cruel Burleigh!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">This, this was thy dark work, unpitying man!<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Bur.</i> My gracious mistress, blame not thus my duty,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">My firm obedience to your high command.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The laws condemn'd him first to die; nor think<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">I stood between your mercy and his life.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It was the Lady Nottingham, not I.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Herself confess'd it all, in wild despair,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">That, from your majesty to Essex sent<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With terms of proffer'd grace, she then received,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From his own hand, a fatal ring, a pledge,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">It seems, of much importance, which the earl,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">With earnest suit, and warm entreaty, begg'd her,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">As she would prize his life, to give your majesty;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">In this she fail'd—In this she murder'd Essex.<br /></span>
</div><div class="speech">
<span class="dialogue"><i>Qu. Eliz.</i> Oh, barbarous woman!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Surrounded still by treachery and fraud!<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">What bloody deed is this!—Thou injured Essex!<br /></span>
<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span><span class="dialogue2">My fame is soil'd to all succeeding times;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">But Heaven alone can view my breaking heart—<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Then let its will be done.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">From hence, let proud, resisting mortals know<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">The arm parental, and the indulgent blow.<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">To Heaven's corrective rod submissive bend;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Adore its wisdom, on its power depend;<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Whilst ruling justice guides eternal sway,<br /></span>
<span class="dialogue2">Let nature tremble, and let man obey.<br /></span>
<span class="stagedir2">[<i>Exeunt.</i><br /></span>
</div>
<p class="theend">THE END.</p>
<hr style="width: 65%;" />
<div class="blockquot">
<p>Transcriber's Note: The following typographical errors present in the
original edition have been corrected.</p>
<p>In Act II, Scene I, missing periods were added after "Her majesty to
milder thoughts" and "The force of love".</p>
<p>In Act III, Scene II, "pure affectio ;" was changed to "pure
affection;", and "' Tis clear" was changed to "'Tis clear".</p>
<p>In Act IV, Scene I, "Vouchfafe your Essex" was changed to "Vouchsafe
your Essex", and a missing comma was added after "avenge the wrong".</p>
<p>In Act V, Scene I, "Each pasing hour" was changed to "Each passing
hour".</p>
<p>In Act V, Scene III, the dialogue tag "Qd. Eliz." was changed to "Qu.
Eliz." in the line beginning "To execution!--Fly with lightning's wing",
and "'Tis mercys voice" was changed to "'Tis mercy's voice".</p>
</div>
<pre>
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