After the intimation of his suspicion that the confessor is placed as a spy upon him by the king, he is relieved of the presence of Domingo, and the Marquis of Posa enters. This personage, who plays a conspicuous part in the drama, and is in fact the hero of the piece, is a political enthusiast, whose whole soul is devoted to the attainment of a favorite object, to which all his efforts and intrigues have an ultimate tendency. The skill with which he lays his plans, and the metaphysical subtlety with which they are carried on, even to the delusion of the vigilant Philip, are developed in the course of the tragedy; but it is proper to give this insight into his character at first, to avoid the imputation of inconsistency and folly, which would otherwise rest for a time upon his actions in the mind of the reader. The delight of Carlos at again embracing his friend just returned from a tour through Europe, is so excessive that the marquis himself reproves his boyish weakness, which the prince excuses by expressing his utter misery. In this and the other extracts we are obliged to use our own translation, having never met with an English version of the play. Carlos answers to the generous suggestions of his friend. Thou speak'st of time long past; I also once Dreamed of a prince of Spain, in whose proud cheek The fiery blood would mount, if one did speak Of Liberty!—yet he is long since buried. Whom thou seest here—he is no more the Carlos Who in Alkala took his leave of thee, Who with the sweet and glorious vision burned. Creator of a new and golden age For Spain to be; Oh, the design was simple, Yet godlike still! Past is that dream! _Marquis de Posa_. A dream! Prince—Was it but a dream? _Carlos_. Nay—let me weep; Weep on thy breast hot tears—mine only friend! I have none—none—in the wide full earth none; Far as my father's regal sceptre reaches, Far as the seaward breeze our flag sends forth, There is no place—not one—where I may pour My bitter tears, but this. O Roderick, By all that thou and I may hope in heaven Of future rest—drive me not hence! _Act I, Scene 2_.