How came I here? Is it caprice or chance That shows me now my image in this mirror? Why, out of millions, should it picture me-- The most unlikely--and present my form To the king's memory? Was this but chance? Perhaps 'twas something more!--what else is chance But the rude stone which from the sculptor's hand Receives its life? Chance comes from Providence, And man must mould it to his own designs. What the king wants with me but little matters; I know the business I shall have with him. Were but one spark of truth with boldness flung Into the despot's soul, how fruitful 'twere In the kind hand of Providence; and so What first appeared capricious act of chance, May be designed for some momentous end. Whate'er it be, I'll act on this belief. [He takes a few turns in the room, and stands at last in tranquil contemplation before a painting. The KING appears in the neighboring room, where he gives some orders. He then enters and stands motionless at the door, and contemplates the MARQUIS for some time without being observed. SCENE X. The KING, and MARQUIS POSA. The MARQUIS, as soon as he observes the KING, comes forward and sinks on one knee; then rises and remains standing before him without any sign of confusion. KING (looks at him with surprise). We've met before then? MARQUIS. No. KING. You did my crown Some service? Why then do you shun my thanks? My memory is thronged with suitor's claims. One only is omniscient. 'Twas your duty To seek your monarch's eye! Why did you not? MARQUIS. Two days have scarce elapsed since my return From foreign travel, sire. KING. I would not stand Indebted to a subject; ask some favor---- MARQUIS. I enjoy the laws. KING. So does the murderer! MARQUIS. Then how much more the honest citizen! My lot contents me, sire. KING (aside). By heavens! a proud And dauntless mind! That was to be expected. Proud I would have my Spaniards. Better far The cup should overflow than not be full. They say you've left my service? MARQUIS. To make way For some one worthier, I withdrew. KING. 'Tis pity. When spirits such as yours make holiday, The state must suffer. But perchance you feared To miss the post best suited to your merits. MARQUIS. Oh, no! I doubt not the experienced judge, In human nature skilled--his proper study,-- Will have discovered at a glance wherein I may be useful to him, wherein not. With deepest gratitude, I feel the favor Wherewith, by so exalted an opinion, Your majesty is loading me; and yet---- [He pauses. KING. You hesitate? MARQUIS. I am, I must confess, Sire, at this moment, unprepared to clothe My thoughts, as the world's citizen, in phrase Beseeming to your subject. When I left The court forever, sire, I deemed myself Released from the necessity to give My reasons for this step.