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Lady Frances. Frances, of what think you? Alas! dear father,
The sight of this thrice venerated spot
Distresses me. Your sister, by whose side
I've passed my life, taught me to reverence
Those who are banished; and the few brief days
Since I have been within these frowning walls,
Unceasingly I fancy that I see
Despondent phantoms wandering about.
Cromwell.Phantoms of whom?
Lady Frances. Phantoms of whom? The Stuarts.
Cromwell [aside.] …of whom? The Stuarts. How that name
Doth ring for ever in my ears!
Lady Frances. Doth ring for ever in my ears! 'Twas here
The martyr died!
Cromwell. The martyr died! My child!

Lady Frances [pointing to the window at the back of the stage.] My child! Was not yon window

The one through which King Charles the First went forth
For the last time from Whitehall—Charles the First,
Whom they dared persecute?
Cromwell [aside.] … dared persecute? My guileless child,
How thou dost torture me!
[Enter Thurloe.
How thou dost torture me! Ah! Thurloe comes!

Scene 4.—The Same; Thurloe, in Puritan costume, carrying a portfolio with the Protectors arms.

Thurloe [bowing.]Urgent affairs, my lord.
Cromwell [to his wife.] … my lord. Pardon, my lady—
Your Highness—
Elizabeth. Your Highness— Prithee, whom do you address?
Cromwell.Your Highness.