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Show 466 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. is the instrument with which they propose to satisfy their ambition and revenge, and to re-establish Margaret upon the throne of England. This measure seems to fill every breast with hope and courage ; so great, indeed, is their confidence in it, that already do they fancy the attempt is completed. In the mean time, the warrior-queen recommends the deepest circumspection, joined to an indefatigable activity, promising suitable rewards to all, and then departs at the head of one party, while Nevil conducts the other. S C E N E II.-A prison. Warwick is discovered ; he laments his captivity, and meditates upon the vicissitudes of fortune-he, who a few hours ago was the foremost man in England, is now plunged into a loathsome dungeon, like the vilest of criminals ! Notwithstanding his heroism, he feels deeply the pangs of disappointed love and royal perfidy, and appears lost in meditation on his wretched fate. S C E N E III.-Elizabeth, followed by her suite, enters this gloomy abode ; she presents herself before her beloved Dudley ; mutual endearments are instantly exchanged, and the latter finds a momentary relief from his sufferings. H e expresses to Elizabeth the surprise he feels at her unexpected visit. She then informs him that she is come from Edward, to entreat him to calm his anger, return to his allegiance, and endeavour to regain the royal favour. Scarcely has she delivered her commission, when Warwick, in the most decisive manner, refuses to listen to such conditions ; he admits himself somewhat in the wrong, but treats such a degrading submission with a haughty contempt. His mind broods rather on the means of revenge. Elizabeth employs the force of affection to dissuade him from his purpose, but he is im- |