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Enter Henriquez, followed by Carlos and Antonio, going up to the King, who rises to meet him.

KING.

Thou too, my valiant friend, a suitor here?

HENRIQUEZ.

A humble supplicant.

KING.

Who needs not sue.

Say freely what thou would'st, and it is granted.

HENRIQUEZ.

But what I beg, an earnest boon, must be

Confirm'd to me with all solemnity,
Before I utter it.

KING.

A strange request!

But that thy services have been to me
Beyond all recompense, and that I know
Thy country's welfare and thy sovereign's honour
Are dear to thee, as thou full well hast proved,
I should with some precaution give my word.
But be it so; I say thy suit is granted.

HENRIQUEZ.

Nay, swear it on this sword.

KING.

Where doth this tend? Doubt'st thou my royal word?