152
THE DEATH OF
SCENE IX.
To these enters Octavio Piccolomini with all his train. At the same time Devereux and Macdonald enter from out the Corridor with the Halberdiers. Wallenstein's dead body is carried over the back part of the stage, wrapped in a piece of crimson tapestry.
OCTAVIO. (entering abruptly.)
It must not be! It is not possible!
Butler! Gordon!
I'll not believe it. Say no!
It must not be! It is not possible!
Butler! Gordon!
I'll not believe it. Say no!
GORDON.
(Without answering, points with his hand to the body of Wallenstein as it is carried over the back of the stage. Octavio looks that way, and stands overpowered with horror.)
(Without answering, points with his hand to the body of Wallenstein as it is carried over the back of the stage. Octavio looks that way, and stands overpowered with horror.)
DEVEREUX. (to Butler.)
Here is the golden fleece—the Duke's sword—
Here is the golden fleece—the Duke's sword—
MACDONALD.
Is it your order?
Is it your order?
BUTLER. (pointing to Octavio.)
Here stands he who now
Hath the sole power to issue orders.
Here stands he who now
Hath the sole power to issue orders.
(Devereux and Macdonald retire with marks of obeisance. One drops away after the other, till only Butler, Octavio, and Gordon remain on the stage.)
oc-
