The hands of all
around were held up in astonishment at the horror of the crime
supposed to have been intended, and the escape which was presumed so
narrow.
Nigel had not yet spoken a word--he now calmly desired to be heard.
"To what purpose?" answered the Prince coldly. "You knew yourself
accused of a heavy offence, and, instead of rendering yourself up to
justice, in terms of the proclamation, you are here found intruding
yourself on his Majesty's presence, and armed with unlawful weapons."
"May it please you, sir," answered Nigel, "I wore these unhappy
weapons for my own defence; and not very many hours since they were
necessary to protect the lives of others."
"Doubtless, my lord," answered the Prince, still calm and unmoved,--
"your late mode of life, and the associates with whom you have lived,
have made you familiar with scenes and weapons of violence. But it is
not to me you are to plead your cause."
"Hear me--hear me, noble Prince!" said Nigel, eagerly. "Hear me! You--
even you yourself--may one day ask to be heard, and in vain."
"How, sir," said the Prince, haughtily--"how am I to construe that, my
lord?"
"If not on earth, sir," replied the prisoner, "yet to Heaven we must
all pray for patient and favourable audience."
"True, my lord," said the Prince, bending his head with haughty
acquiescence; "nor would I now refuse such audience to you, could it
avail you.
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