Chapter 332

PRINCESS EBOLI, COUNTESS OLIVAREZ.

EBOLI. Heavens! she has left me. I am now undone!

OLIVAREZ (approaching her). My princess--Eboli!

EBOLI. I know your business, Duchess, and you come hither from the queen, To speak my sentence to me; do it quickly.

OLIVAREZ. I am commanded by your majesty To take your cross and key.

EBOLI (takes from her breast a golden cross, and gives it to the UCHESS). And but once more May I not kiss my gracious sovereign's hand?

OLIVAREZ. In holy Mary's convent shall you learn Your fate, princess.

EBOLI (with a flood of tears). Alas! then I no more Shall ever see the queen.

OLIVAREZ (embraces her with her face turned away). Princess, farewell.

[She goes hastily away. The PRINCESS follows her as far as the door of the cabinet, which is immediately locked after the DUCHESS. She remains a few minutes silent and motionless on her knees before it. She then rises and hastens away, covering her face.