SCENE III.--Another part of the Wood of Drome.

The Earl of Buchan alone.

Buchan. God help me and all jealous fools, I pray! The plagues of Hades leagued in one raw scourge Might minister diversion to my soul, Assailing through my flesh. No thought at all Of starry space or void eternity; Nor love, nor hate, nor vengeance, nor remorse-- My cousin's murder!--I've forgotten it!-- No sound of horns crackling with riotous breath The crisp, rathe air; no hounds; no beckoning tunes With notes of fiery down; nor singing girls Whose voices brood and bound; nor chanting larks, Nor hymning nightingales can touch my soul. Nothing but torture unendurable Wrought in the flesh has power on jealousy. Slay him with agonies? A passing swoon! I'll kill my wife! Her blood is Lethe if oblivion be Save in more high-strung anguish of my own.

Enter Fife.

Fife. What is it? You have news. Buchan. They are together-- The outlaw and your sister. They're at hand-- Three miles away--no more. A trusty spy Told me just now. Fife. Is there a band? Buchan. Some score. Fife. Then we will take them. Buchan. Yes. Fife. About it straight. [Goes. Buchan. I'll follow--Ho!

Enter Spy.

I thought you still were near. I haven't thanked you yet. [Gives money.] How did she look? Was there about her not a thievish air, A truant aspect, frightened and yet free, Shame-faced, but bold, and like an angel lost. Spy. Who, my good lord?

Re-enter Fife.

Buchan. The queen--the outlaw's wife. Spy. O no, my lord! She laughed, as she rode past Where I lay hid, at something gaily said By my good lady, your good lordship's wife. They both looked happy, riding in the sun. Buchan. Aye; that will do. [Exit Spy. I'm coming, Fife. Fife. Stay yet. Why did you try to lead him off the scent? You meant my sister when you questioned him. Tell me, what makes your jealousy so strong? You never were in love with her I think. Buchan. Nor am not now. I think--I know--I feel What I have heard: true love is never jealous. I am like other men; I love myself. I cannot speak. I mean to act. Come on. [They go out.