And vindicate their loyalty and mine.

Qu. Eliz. Ha! tell not me your smooth deceitful story!

I know your projects, and your close cabals,

You'd turn my favour into party feuds,

And use my sceptre as the rod of faction:

But Henry's daughter claims a nobler soul.

I'll nurse no party, but will reign o'er all,

[Pg 18]

And my sole rule shall be to bless my people:

Who serves them best, has still my highest favour:

This Essex ever did.

Enter Southampton.

Southampton

Behold, Southampton,

What a base portrait's here! The faithful Essex

Here drawn at large, associating with rebels,

To spoil his country, and dethrone his queen!

South. It is not like.—By Heaven, the hand of envy

Drew these false lines, distorted far from truth

And honour, and unlike my noble friend

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