Mary Stuart

re these--

MARY. Thou may'st forget it, Hannah; But I've a faithful memory--'tis this day Another wretched anniversary Of that regretted, that unhappy deed-- Which I must celebrate with fast and penance.

KENNEDY. Dismiss at length in peace this evil spirit. The penitence of many a heavy year, Of many a suffering, has atoned the deed; The church, which holds the key of absolution, Pardons the crime, and heaven itself's appeased.

MARY. This long-atoned crime arises fresh And bleeding from its lightly-covered grave; My husband's restless spirit seeks revenge; No sacred bell can exorcise, no host In priestly hands dismiss it to his tomb.

KENNEDY. You did not murder him; 'twas done by others.

MARY. But it was known to me; I suffered it, And lured him with my smiles to death's embrace.

KENNEDY. Your youth extenuates your guilt. You were Of tender years.

MARY. So tender, yet I drew This heavy guilt upon my youthful head.

KENNEDY. You were provoked by direst inj