Page:CromwellHugo.djvu/87

I keep it always, in a velvet bag.
I'm sure, at least, that none will seek it there.

[He takes from his hat a bag of crimson velvet, and produces from it a sealed parchment , which he hands to Lord Ormond, who receives it kneeling, and breaks the seal after kissing it respectfully .

Rochester [to Davenant, in an undertone.
The while he reads that scroll, I'll read to you
Some verses.
Ormond [reading half aloud
Some verses. "To our tried and loyal subject,
"James Butler, Marquis of Ormond: it is
"Our wish that Rochester be introduced
"To Cromwell's presence at Whitehall."
Rochester. To Cromwell's presence at Whitehall. Oho!
The King would have me violate his daughter?
[To Davenant.] My quatrain doth commemorate her charms.
Ormond [reading.]"That a narcotic with his wine be mixed.
"While sleeping in his bed he must be seized,
"And brought to us alive. We will ourselves
"Do justice. Furthermore, have confidence
"In Davenant. Such is our royal will.
"Charles, Rex."

[With the same ceremony he returns the King's letter to Davenant, who kisses it, replaces it in the velvet bag, and conceals it in his hat.

Charles, Rex. Egad! 'Tis easier said than done,
In truth. In God's name, how is Rochester
To be to Cromwell's bedroom introduced?
We needs must be adroit.
Davenant. We needs must be adroit. I know a man
In Cromwell's suite, an old doctor of laws,