SCENE VII

COUNTESS, GORDON.

Gordon (rushes in out of breath). 'Tis a mistake, 'Tis not the Swedes--Ye must proceed no further-- Butler! O God! Where is he? [Then observing the COUNTESS. Countess! Say----

Countess. You are come then from the castle? Where's my husband?

Gordon. Your husband!--Ask not!--To the Duke----

Countess. Not till You have discovered to me----

Gordon. On this moment Does the world hang. For God's sake! to the Duke. While we are speaking---- [Calling loudly. Butler! Butler! God!

Countess. Why, he is at the castle with my husband.

[BUTLER comes from the gallery.

Gordon. 'Twas a mistake--'Tis not the Swedes--it is The Imperialist's Lieutenant-General Has sent me hither, will be here himself Instantly.--You must not proceed.

Butler. He comes Too late. [GORDON dashes himself against the wall.

Gordon. O God of mercy!

Countess. What too late? Who will be here himself? Octavio In Egra? Treason! Treason! Where's the Duke?

[She rushes to the gallery.