Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/151

Fear nought, my friend! But think how many times
Our souls have been tormented with false news.
These terrifying plots are but a game
Of rivals ill-disposed and envious,
Whose impotence leaves them with nought to do
Save to divert themselves at our expense.
[Footsteps are heard in a gallery at one side.
Here come the courtiers with their mummery.
I go to take the air. Look thou to them.
[Exit through the low door.

Scene 8.—Thurloe, Whitelocke, Waller, a poet, Sergeant Maynard, in his robe, Colonel Jephson, in uniform, Colonel Grace, in uniform, Sir William Murray, in old-fashioned court dress, Sir William Lenthall, formerly Speaker of the Commons, Lord Broghill, in court dress, Carr.

[Carr comes in last, and stops at the back of the stage, looking about with a scandalized expression, while the others talk together without noticing him.

Whitelocke [to Thurloe.
His Highness is not here?
Thurloe. His Highness is not here? Nay.
Lenthall [to Thurloe.] … not here? Nay. I would fain
Remind him of my rights.
Sergeant Maynard [to Thurloe.] … rights. Hither I came
Upon most urgent business.
Colonel Jephson [to Thurloe.] … business. An affair
Of utmost moment brings me to the palace.
Murray [to Thurloe.]In this petition proffered to my lord,
I seek an office in his future court.