Enter Lady Nottingham.

Lady Nottingham

Not. Thrice hail to rescued England's guiding genius!

His country's guardian, and his queen's defence!

Great Burleigh, thou whose patriot bosom beats

With Albion's glory, and Eliza's fame;

Who shield'st her person, and support'st her throne;

For thee, what fervent thanks, what offer'd vows,

Do prostrate millions pay!

Bur. Bright excellence,

This fair applause too highly over-rates,

Too much extols, the low deserts of Cecil.

Not. What praises are too high for patriot worth;

Or what applause exceeds the price of virtue?

My lord, conviction has at last subdued me,

And I am honour's proselyte:—Too long

My erring heart pursued the ways of faction;

I own myself t' have been your bitt'rest foe,

[Pg 12]

And join'd with Essex in each foul attempt

 Prev. P 8/87 next