but I have heard a
thousand
such.
Tennyson
And when the Council would not crown me--thought
To bind me first by oaths I could not keep,
And keep with Christ and conscience--was it boldness
Or weakness that won there? when I, their Queen,
Cast myself down upon my knees before them,
And those hard men brake into woman tears,
Ev'n Gardiner, all amazed, and in that passion
Gave me my Crown.
_Enter_ ALICE.
Girl; hast thou ever heard
Slanders against Prince Philip in our Court?
ALICE. What slanders? I, your Grace; no, never.
MARY. Nothing?
ALICE. Never, your Grace.
MARY. See that you neither hear them nor repeat!
ALICE (_aside_).
Good Lord!
but I have heard a thousand such.
Ay, and repeated them as often--mum!
Why comes that old fox-Fleming back again?
_Enter_ RENARD.
RENARD. Madam, I scarce had left your Grace's presence
Before I chanced upon the messenger
Who brings that letter which we waited for--
The formal offer of Prince Philip's hand.
It craves an instant answer, Ay or No.
MARY. An instant Ay or No! the Council sits.
Give it me quick.
ALICE (_stepping before her_).
Your Highness is all trembling.
MARY. Make way. [_Exit into the Council Chamber_.
