ATTENDANT. The Count de Feria, from the King of Spain.
ELIZABETH. Ay!--let him enter. Nay, you need not go:
[_To her_ LADIES.
Remain within the chamber, but apart.
We'll have no private conference. Welcome to
England!
_Enter_ FERIA.
FERIA. Fair island star!
ELIZABETH. I shine! What else, Sir Count?
FERIA. As far as France, and into Philip's heart.
My King would know if you be fairly served,
And lodged, and treated.
ELIZABETH. You see the lodging, sir,
I am well-served, and am in everything
Most loyal and most grateful to the Queen.
FERIA. You should be grateful to my master, too.
He spoke of this; and unto him you owe
That Mary hath acknowledged you her heir.
ELIZABETH. No, not to her nor him; but to the people,
Who know my right, and love me, as I love
The people! whom God aid!
FERIA. You will be Queen,
And, were I Philip--
ELIZABETH. Wherefore pause you--what?
FERIA. Nay, but I speak from mine own self, not
him;
Your royal sister cannot last; your hand
Will be much coveted! What a delicate one!
Our Spanish ladies have none such--and there,
Were you in Spain, this fine fair gossamer gold--
Like sun-gilt breathings on a frosty dawn--
That hovers round your shoulder--
ELIZABETH.
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