Chapter 260

COUNTESS, GORDON.

GORDON (rushes in out of breath) 'Tis a mistake! 'Tis not the Swedes; ye must proceed no further-- Butler! Oh, God! where is he? [Observing the COUNTESS. Countess! Say----

COUNTESS. You're come then from the castle? Where's my husband?

GORDON (in an agony of affright). Your husband! Ask not! To the duke----

COUNTESS. Not till You have discovered to me----

GORDON. On this moment Does the world hang. For God's sake! to the duke. While we are speaking---- [Calling loudly. Butler! Butler! God!

COUNTESS. Why, he is at the castle with my husband.

[BUTLER comes from the gallery.

GORDON. 'Twas a mistake. 'Tis not the Swedes--it is The imperialists' lieutenant-general Has sent me hither--will be here himself Instantly. You must not proceed.

BUTLER. He comes Too late.

[GORDON dashes himself against the wall.

GORDON. Oh, God of mercy!

COUNTESS. What, too late? Who will be here himself? Octavio In Egra? Treason! Treason! Where's the duke?

[She rushes to the gallery.