(Jerome and Paul retire, and two Executioners prepare him for the block, and assist him to kneel. He then lays down his head, and they hold his hands, while a third Executioner stands with the raised axe.)
1st Ex. (speaking close into his ear.)
Press my hand when you are ready for the stroke.
(A long pause.)
He gives no sign.
2d Ex. Stop, he will immediately.
(A second pause.)
Does he not?
1st Ex. No.
Prior. Then give the stroke without it.
(3d Ex. prepares to give the stroke, when the Imperial Ambassador rushes into the hall, followed by Leonora and Agnes, and a numerous train.)
Am. Stop the execution! In the name of your liege Lord the Emperor, I command you to stop upon your peril. My Lord Prior, this is a treacherous and clandestine use of your seignorial power. This noble servant of our Imperial Master (pointing to Osterloo) I take under my protection; and you must first deprive an Imperial Ambassador of life, ere one hair of his head fall to the ground.
Ben. (running to the scaffold.) Up, noble Osterloo! Raise up thy head: thou art rescued: thou art free.
