University of Virginia Library

SCENE III.

The Palace Stairs.
Savelli and Gerardo.
SAVELLI.
Tell him that all men wish it—push him hard,
But warily: say that the abbot died
With his last hope—that, as for me, the honor
Is known, not sought, and felt, not coveted.—
Now go, and with good speed.

GERARDO.
But conscience, brother!
Three lies as preface to a deadly sin,
And simony to boot!—Why, no man wished it;
And abbot never hoped it; thou dost covet;
And I expect some profit!

SAVELLI.
Well—be wise—
It is a day to prosper in. We come
The earliest suitors to this half-grown king,
And he will give to show that he is gracious—
The Count shall follow next.

GERARDO.
The Count indeed
Is wisely led, so may he come to grace.

[Exeunt.