Egmont.  And these arbitrary changes, these unlimited encroachments of the supreme power, are they not indications that one will permit himself to do what is forbidden to thousands?  The monarch would alone be free, that he may have it in his power to gratify his every wish, to realize his every thought.  And though we should confide in him as a good and virtuous sovereign, will he be answerable to us for his successor?  That none who come after him shall rule without consideration, without forbearance!  And who would deliver us from absolute caprice, should he send hither his servants, his minions, who, without knowledge of the country and its requirements, should govern according to their own good pleasure, meet with no opposition, and know themselves exempt from all responsibility?

Alva (who has meanwhile again looked round).  There is nothing more natural than that a king should choose to retain the power in his own hands, and that he should select as the instruments of his authority, those who best understand him, who desire to understand him, and who will unconditionally execute his will.

Egmont.  And just as natural is it, that the burgher should prefer being governed by one born and reared in the same land, whose notions of right and wrong are in harmony with his own, and whom he can regard as his brother.

Alva.  And yet the noble, methinks, has shared rather unequally with these brethren of his.

Egmont.  That took place centuries ago, and is now submitted to without envy.  But should new men, whose presence is not needed in the country, be sent, to enrich themselves a second time, at the cost of the nation; should the people see themselves exposed to their bold, unscrupulous rapacity, it would excite a ferment that would not soon be quelled.

Alva.  You utter words to which I ought not to listen;—­I, too, am a foreigner.

Egmont.  That they are spoken in your presence is a sufficient proof that they have no reference to you.

Alva.  Be that as it may, I would rather not hear them from you.  The king sent me here in the hope that I should obtain the support of the nobles.  The king wills, and will have his will obeyed.  After profound deliberation, the king at length discerns what course will best promote the welfare of the people; matters cannot be permitted to go on as heretofore; it is the king’s intention to limit their power for their own good; if necessary, to force upon them their salvation:  to sacrifice the more dangerous burghers in order that the rest may find repose, and enjoy in peace the blessing of a wise government, This is his resolve; this I am commissioned to announce to the nobles; and in his name I require from them advice, not as to the course to be pursued—­on that he is resolved—­but as to the best means of carrying his purpose into effect.