 | Mary, Queen of Scots |  |
19
Scene V.
NORFOLKAlone.
'Tis well advised—these zealous sons of Rome
Will hazard all to propagate the faith
Which they espouse, and falsely think the end
Will justify the means, how base soe'er:
Pernicious maxim! but I'm link'd so fast
With these new friends, that to advance with them,
Or to retreat, alike is full of danger;
I'll to the council, and there urge my suit.
O for an angel's eloquence to plead
An angel's cause! perhaps Elizabeth
May yet repent, may yet be merciful;
May free the captive queen, and make us happy.
If not, Ridolphi, I am thine, whate'er
The consequence; I cannot live without her:
The choice is fixed, a prison or a crown,
Mary or treason, liberty or death.
| Mary, Queen of Scots | |