This very night you shall hear how Earl Surrey, sitting at the feet of his Geraldine, swears to her his love." "It is well!" said the king.

"This night, then! Woe to you, Douglas, if you cannot redeem your word!" "I will do so, your majesty.

For this, it is only necessary that you will be graciously pleased to swear to me that you will not, by a sigh or a breath, betray yourself.

The earl is suspicious; and the fear of an evil conscience has sharpened his ear.

He would recognize you by your sigh, and his lips would not speak those words and avowals which you desire to hear." "I swear to you that I will not by any sigh or breath betray my presence!" said the king, solemnly.