_Octavio._ The Emperor is no tyrant. The deed alone he'll punish, not the wish. The Duke hath yet his destiny in his power. Let him but leave the treason uncompleted, 295 He will be silently displaced from office, And make way to his Emperor's royal son. An honourable exile to his castles Will be a benefaction to him rather Than punishment. But the first open step---- 300 _Max._ What callest thou such a step? A wicked step Ne'er will he take; but thou mightest easily, Yea, thou hast done it, misinterpret him. _Octavio._ Nay, howsoever punishable were Duke Friedland's purposes, yet still the steps 305 Which he hath taken openly, permit A mild construction. It is my intention To leave this paper wholly uninforced Till some act is committed which convicts him Of a high-treason, without doubt or plea, 310 And that shall sentence him. _Max._ But who the judge? _Octavio._ Thyself. _Max._ For ever, then, this paper will lie idle. _Octavio._ Too soon, I fear, its powers must all be proved. After the counter-promise of this evening, 315 It cannot be but he must deem himself Secure of the majority with us; And of the army's general sentiment He hath a pleasing proof in that petition Which thou delivered'st to him from the regiments. 320 Add this too--I have letters that the Rhinegrave Hath changed his route, and travels by forced marches To the Bohemian Forest. What this purports, Remains unknown; and, to confirm suspicion, This night a Swedish nobleman arrived here. 325 _Max._ I have thy word. Thou'lt not proceed to action Before thou hast convinced me--me myself. _Octavio._ Is it possible? Still, after all thou know'st, Canst thou believe still in his innocence? _Max._ Thy judgment may mistake; my heart can not. 330 These reasons might expound thy spirit or mine; But they expound not Friedland--I have faith: For as he knits his fortunes to the stars, Even so doth he resemble them in secret, Wonderful, still inexplicable courses! 335 Trust me, they do him wrong. All will be solved. These smokes, at once, will kindle into flame-- The edges of this black and stormy cloud Will brighten suddenly, and we shall view The Unapproachable glide out in splendour. 340 _Octavio._ I will await it. LINENOTES: Act III, Scene I. _A Chamber, &c. . . . It is Night. Octavio, &c._ 1800, 1828, 1829. [8] _thou_ 1800, 1828, 1829. [Before 12] _Octavio (goes up to him and embraces him)._ 1800, 1828, 1829. [39] for] from 1800, 1828, 1829. [47] They] There 1828, 1829. [After 56] [_Fixing his eye steadfastly on his son's face._ 1800, 1828, 1829. [57] _mine_ 1800, 1828, 1829.