The Life and Death of King John — Act 3, Scene 2: The same. Plains near Angiers.

Amid the battle, the Bastard enters carrying Austria’s head and speaks of the fierce fighting, noting that Austria is dead while King Philip still lives. King John then arrives with Arthur and Hubert. He tells Hubert to keep Arthur safe and orders Philip to reconcile, because Queen Elinor has been attacked in their tent and John fears she has been captured. The Bastard interrupts to say that he rescued Elinor and that she is safe. He urges John to press on, saying the struggle is nearly finished. John and his followers then exit.

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Now, by my life, this day grows wondrous hot;

Some airy devil hovers in the sky

And pours down mischief. Austria's head lie there,

While Philip breathes.

Hubert, keep this boy. Philip, make up:

My mother is assailed in our tent,

And ta'en, I fear.

My lord, I rescued her;

Her highness is in safety, fear you not:

But on, my liege; for very little pains

Will bring this labour to an happy end.