 | The Earl of Douglas |  |
SCENE III.
Douglas, Lord William.Lord William.
Methought I saw our cousin Grame go out,
With an unusual gloom upon his face.
Douglas.
I have a letter from the States, the answer
Which I intend, suits not with his opinion.
Lord William.
Sir Malcolm hath inform'd me of the letter,
Who greatly doubts, it does not mean you good.
Douglas.
To me 'tis strange, that men of sense and worth,
Should draw conclusions so remote, and doubt
The publick faith. I wish they had approv'd
My resolution; but cannot recede
From what my conscience tells me is my duty,
Because my friends fore-see some danger in it.
'Tis ours to do our duty; heav'n alone
Fore-knows the issue; and will ne'er forsake
The man whose views the laws of virtue bound.
It is resolv'd: to morrow we set out;
Two friends, and servants, only in our train.
Lord William.
I humbly think, my Lord, the number
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Our cousin Grame's experience of the world
His knowledge of the men; his love to you,
Perplex me not a little. At least permit
An hundred horse to go; so small a train
Can never give offence.
Douglas.
Forgive me, cousin,
A smaller number, to the squinting eye
Of malice, would appear the sign of guilt.
I mean to shew the world, my views are just,
And that my deeds can bear the test of law.
No more a large retinue can impart
A dignity to man, than gaudy dress
Worth to his mind, or to his body health.
Lord William.
May I not hope the honour to attend you?
Douglas.
You know my just regard, but give me leave
To beg that you insist not in a suit,
I cannot grant. None of my house, or name,
On this occasion goes with me to court,
Except my brother. It will give me joy,
To see you there soon after; but till once
My character is clear'd, those vile reports
Prov'd false and groundless, I will ne'er assume
The state, which to my birth and house belongs.
Lord William.
[OMITTED] insist not; but shall follow soon,
[OMITTED] the pleasure. which your heart must
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| The Earl of Douglas | |