ALVA (approaching the PRINCE with respect, but turning his
back on the MARQUIS during the whole scene).
Prince, you are free. Deputed by the king
I come to tell you so.
[CARLOS looks at the MARQUIS with astonishment.
General silence.
And I, in truth,
Am fortunate to have this honor first--
CARLOS (looking at both with extreme amazement, after a pause,
to the DUKE).
I am imprisoned, duke, and set at freedom,
Unconscious of the cause of one or other.
ALVA.
As far as I know, prince, 'twas through an error,
To which the king was driven by a traitor.
CARLOS.
Then am I here by order of the king?
ALVA.
Yes, through an error of his majesty.
CARLOS.
That gives me pain, indeed. But when the king
Commits an error, 'twould beseem the king,
Methinks, to remedy the fault in person.
I am Don Philip's son-and curious eyes
And slanderous looks are on me. What the king
Hath done from sense of duty ne'er will I
Appear to owe to your considerate favor.
I am prepared to appear before the Cortes,
And will not take my sword from such a hand.
ALVA.
The king will never hesitate to grant
Your highness a request so just. Permit
That I conduct you to him.
CARLOS.
Here I stay
Until the king or all Madrid shall come
To lead me from my prison. Take my answer.
[ALVA withdraws. He is still seen for some time
lingering in the court and giving orders to the guards.
SCENE III.
CARLOS and MARQUIS POSA.
CARLOS (after the departure of the DUKE, full of expectation and
astonishment, to the MARQUIS).
What means all this? Inform me, Roderigo-
Art thou not, then, the minister?
MARQUIS.
I was,
As thou canst well perceive--
[Going to him with great emotion.
O Carlos! Now
I have succeeded-yes-it is accomplished-
'Tis over now-Omnipotence be praised,
To whom I owe success.
CARLOS.
Success! What mean you?
Thy words perplex me.
MARQUIS (takes his hand).
Carlos! thou art saved-
Art free-but I--
[He stops short.
CARLOS.
But thou--
MARQUIS.
Thus to my breast
I press thee now, with friendship's fullest right,
A right I've bought with all I hold most dear.
How great, how lovely, Carlos, is this moment
Of self-approving joy?
CARLOS.
What sudden change
I mark upon thy features! Proudly now
Thy bosom heaves, thine eyes dart vivid fire!
MARQUIS.
We must say farewell, Carlos! Tremble 'not,
But be a man! And what thou more shalt hear,
Promise me, not by unavailing sorrow,
