 | Crazy Jane |  |
SCENE III.
—A Landscape.Enter Henry, Edwin, and Yeomanry, with the Rebels chained together, L. S. E.
Hen.
(L.)
Thus far kind heaven hath sped us on our way
To home, dear home, again, and those we love!
(C.)
You may rejoice, young man; for love
awaits you, while we have nothing to expect but death.
Edw.
(R.)
Poor fellows!—Who knows but her majesty
may take pity on you, considering you were brought
into this trouble by the cruel tyranny of Lord Raymond?
Enter Eugene with a paper, L. S. E.
Eug.
Success!—Good news! good news!
Edw.
What's it all about, eh? Are all the young
men and virgins going to get married?
Eug.
Not exactly that; but an officer has just joined
the army, with her majesty Queen Elizabeth's most gracious
pardon to the prisoners, and an order instantly to
release them; those only excepted who have wantonly
shed innocent blood.
Omnes.
Hurrah!—Long live the queen!
Hen.
It joys my heart to raise a suffering brother
To hope and happiness; and proud am I
To be the instrument of giving you
Both life and liberty.
[Directs Eugene to unbind the Rebels.
Edw.
[Pointing to Hardolf.]
All but one, Henry, if you
please.
Har.
And why not me, too? Have I shed innocent
blood?
Edw.
But you would, though, if I hadn't prevented
you; recollect that, if you please.
Hen.
Yet I forgive him.
Eug.
Pray, is not that fellow's name Hardolf?
Har.
That is one of my names, sure enough.
Eug.
[Looking over the paper.]
Then his name is expressly
included in the list of exceptions.
Har.
No matter—damned if I care! Many's the
brave fellow has been hanged before now.
Hen.
[Crosses to R.]
Now, brother soldiers all, without delay,
Sweet home be our watchword!—March away!
[Exeunt, R. S. E.
| Crazy Jane | |