University of Virginia Library

Scæn. 3.

Enter the King, Fidelio.
Fidel.
Though it be not safe for Subjects
To prie into the secrets of their Prince,
Much less to question about them,
Yet the implicite faith of blind obedience,
Poison'd with pleasing oft—

Fid.
And't like
Your Majesty, why do you court this Lady thus?

King.
Why dost thou ask?

Fid.
I know 'tis insolence to make reply,
Yet hear me as the eccho of the Court, great Sir,
They call your last giv'n mercy, and those favors
But fairer ends to Lust.

King.
Thy zeal hath got thy pardon:
(Stares upon him.)
No more, he that does offer to give direction
To his Prince, is full of pride, not of discretion.

Exit.
Fid.
So, to give Kings good advice,
May shew, I see, men faithful, but not wise:
I'm honest yet, and I do fare the worse for't,
Oh the Court!—
There humors reign, and merits only serve
To mock with idle hopes those best deserve.

Exit.