_Mar._ Dowry? Ah, was 't not A dainty serving of too humble pie? Mere specious covering for indemnity Proud Scotland would not pay by such a name? _Hen._ May be, but 'twas held wise to join the kingdoms By current of our blood. _Mar._ True at that time 'Twas best for England to make closer ties Wi' the north, but now is Scotland on her knees, And you have naught to fear if you should choose To set aside my claim. _Hen._ The people's eyes Are on you as their queen. _Mar._ They will approve As readily if you make other choice. _Hen._ Then 't seems we both are free to follow love In any court we please. _Mar._ In truth, my lord! _Hen._ And you reject me? _Mar._ I am not so bold---- _Hen._ But, lady, in the world's mouth you will be My cast off love, for who is there so wise As to believe you would refuse a king? _Mar._ I care not, sir! What is the world to me? O, let it think as 'twill, if only---- _Hen._ Ah, If only you are saved from me? But, madam, I can not flip the world away as you. It is my field of tourney where I joust For fame and tender reputation. I must not let men point to you and say "See Henry's fool!" You shall be wed at once Unto the lord most powerful in England Who yet is free. _Mar._ O, sir---- _Hen._ The earl of Kent. _Mar._ Your majesty, be merciful! _Hen._ I am. _Mar._ My knees were bending to you thankfully, But you have changed their purpose to a prayer For veriest pity. The earl of Kent, my lord? An old, fierce man, who scorns the name of love? _Hen._ To you he will be kind. I'll stake my crown, Once wed to him you'll thank me for this day, And swear you'd choose him yours from all the world. He's in the castle now. I'll send him here, For I'm in haste to bring the marriage on. Wait here, sweet Margaret. [_Opens doors rear, and she passes slowly through_] _Mar._ Kill me, my lord! _Hen._ Now, by these tears, you'll live to bless me yet, For from my heart I swear you're better wed Than if you chose the king. [_Closes doors and calls attendant_] Ho, there! [_Enter attendant_] I'll see The earl of Kent. Bid him come in. [_Exit attendant_] 'Tis cruel, But right they should be punished who forgot A king to please themselves. [_Enter Hubert_] _Hub._ Your majesty!