(She goes. Mary takes a purse from the cabinet, sits, writing a letter, and a moment later Riccio comes in)
Riccio: Madam, the King was here again?
Mary: It's ill-named for him, but he was.
Riccio: I saw him on the green from my window. He was with my Lord Ruthven and two or three others, talking. I am afraid. What shall I do?
Mary: All is arranged. You are to meet the Lord Bothwell by Frobisher's Croft at midnight. A boat will be ready, and you will wait out at sea till a Danish ship takes you up. From Copenhagen you must make your own way to France. Here is money, and a letter to be delivered to Monsieur Carmé in Paris. He will help you if you need it.
Riccio (taking the purse and letter): Thank you, Madam. If I could but serve you better! But fate is against me.
Mary: Yes, my poor Riccio, fate is against you.
Riccio: I fear for you in this place. There's wickedness in it. If I were but happier in my fate—to shield you!
