University of Virginia Library

Scæn. 4.

Enter the King going to bed, Cleonax, Lords, Attendants.
King.
God night to all. Lord Cleonax, a word in private;
[Whisper]
Take away the lights and shut the door.

Exeunt.
Enter Parmenio and Lorenzo.
Lor.
Is the King gone to bed?

Par.
An hour ago, my Lord.

Lor.
What if he should not be asleep yet?

Par.
No matter; ere his tongue can speak, our swords
Shall kill: What though he call us Traitors?
'Twill be his last, and may be pardoned.
Come Sir, bravely on!
—Fear's worse then death,
You're Lord of all, or not of your own breath.

Lor.
Nay if I fear, may I not live.
Follow—

The King calls out Treason! Old Cleonax rising to go out-at the door to call for help, is met by his son, who took him for the King and kill'd him: Lorenzo is presently of set purpose run through by Parmenio.