The next act introduces upon the scene the tyrant and arch-hypocrite, attended by his minister Gomez. Their conversation illustrates strikingly the haughty reserve of the king, who will not admit even his private counsellor to his most secret thoughts, or treat him as an equal. _Philip_. Gomez, what thing above all else in the world Dost thou esteem? _Gomez_. Thy favor. _Philip_. Hopest thou to keep it? By what means? _Gomez_. By the self-same means That first obtained it, sire; obedience, And silence. _Philip_. Thou to-day must practise both. Gomez is commanded to watch the countenance and actions of the queen in the interview about to take place. The crafty minister is accustomed to observe, interpret, and silently execute his master's will. Isabella enters, summoned by her lord, who expresses his wish for her {703} advice in a matter pertaining to private relations as well as to the concerns of state. He then speaks of his son, artfully adapting his words to alarm and reassure her alternately. _Philip_. Carlos, my son—thou lov'st Or hatest him. _Isabella_. My lord—— _Philip_. I understand. If to thy inclinations—not the voice Of virtue—thou didst listen, thou wouldst feel Thyself his——step-dame. _Isabella_. Nay, not so; the prince—— _Philip_. Is dear then to thee; virtue in thy heart So strongly dwells, that thou, the wife of Philip, The son of Philip lov'st with love—maternal. _Isabella_. Yours are the pattern of my thoughts; you love him; At least I do believe it; in like manner I also—love him.