Oh, be indulgent to me! I have entered Unwittingly, not many months ago, Upon this office; I know not the language Of courts and kings. I ever have been reared In simple, open wise, a plain blunt man. Be patient with me; nor deny your servant A light to lead him clearly to his duty. [He approaches her in a supplicating posture, she turns her back on him; he stands in despair; then speaks with a tone of resolution. Take, take again this paper--take it back! Within my hands it is a glowing fire. Select not me, my queen; select not me To serve you in this terrible conjecture. (ELIZABETH: Go, sir;--fulfil the duty of your office. Exit.) She goes! She leaves me doubting and perplexed With this dread paper! How to act I know not; Should I retain it, should I forward it? [To BURLEIGH, who enters. Oh! I am glad that you are come, my lord, 'Tis you who have preferred me to this charge; Now free me from it, for I undertook it, Unknowing how responsible it made me. Let me then seek again the obscurity In which you found me; this is not my place. (BURLEIGH: How now? Take courage, sir! Where is the warrant? The queen was with you.) She has quitted me In bitter anger. Oh, advise me, help me, Save me from this fell agony of doubt! My lord, here is the warrant: it is signed!

Sir William Davison Monologue from Mary Stuart: A Tragedy

Rehearse Sir William Davison's monologue