Note 15 — Scene II.—A wooded pass near the field of battle; drums, trumpets, firing, etc. Cries of ‘God save Basilio! Segismund,’ etc.
Edward FitzGerald translation
In Calderon’s drama, the Soldier who liberates Segismund meets with even worse recompense than in the version below. I suppose some such saving clause against prosperous treason was necessary in the days of Philip IV., if not later.
Capt. And what for him, my liege, who made you free To honour him who held you prisoner? Seg. By such self-proclamation self-betray’d Less to your Prince’s service or your King’s Loyal, than to the recompence it brings; The tower he leaves I make you keeper of For life—and, mark you, not to leave alive; For treason may, but not the traitor, thrive.