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Who killed him?

THE QUEEN.
I killed him. He was left behind, and I do not like to have strangers about.

THE OLD WOMAN.
It is a good omen. I have not seen a dead man for twenty years, save those that died of sickness and old age. When shall we have the good old times when men killed each other with swords? I feel that it is coming. When shall we fall upon the four kingdoms, and tear them to pieces?

THE QUEEN.
Ah, that is an idea. That would be something to do.

THE FOOL.
Hush your croakings, old woman,
and tell us the news that you have come with.

THE OLD WOMAN.
How do you know that I come with news? Where is your cap, fool?

THE FOOL.
Speak, or be gone.

THE QUEEN.
Beware of this man, for I have been making a hero out of him.

THE OLD WOMAN.
Are you mad?

THE QUEEN.
Yes, I am mad, so beware of me, too, and tell your news,

THE OLD WOMAN.
( tamed )

It is only that a boat has been seen to put out from the ship, and is coming back to shore.

THE QUEEN.
It is doubtless a present for me. The Prince has bethought himself to pay me for my kindness to him. Go, and give orders that any men who are in the boat are to be brought to me, with their hands tied behind them, that I may decide what punishment to inflict upon them. Let it be understood that we do not like strangers in this kingdom.

THE OLD WOMAN.
( grimly )

It shall be as you say.

She goes out.

THE QUEEN.
And now I must finish my quaint task. It pleases me to be kissing fools. I think it is becoming a habit of mine. Come to this garden bench, where he and I sat together, and I will kiss you upon the mouth, as I kissed him. Does it hurt you for me to say that? Good. ( They sit down.) You are the only one in the kingdom who understands me. Lift up your head. ( She kisses him. He lifts his head proudly, and sits beside her like a king.) You are silent. Why do you not say something appropriate?

THE FOOL.
What I have to say will be with my sword,
and your enemies will be the ones to hear it.

THE QUEEN.
Ah, I forgot, it is a hero I am making out of you,
and all a hero can do is fight. That is a stupid thing.
I am sorry now that I kissed you.

THE FOOL.
You will not be sorry when I have destroyed your enemies.

THE QUEEN.
Now you are beginning to talk like my old nurse. It is well enough to fight, but it should be for amusement, and not with such seriousness. I have only succeeded in making you dull. You were better as a fool.

The Prince enters, with his hands tied behind him,

conducted by some soldiers.

THE PRINCE.
( Indignantly )

Why am I treated in this fashion?

THE QUEEN.
So it is you?

She looks at him quietly.

THE PRINCE
.
( haughtily )