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+Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Semiramis and Other Plays
+       Semiramis, Carlotta And The Poet
+
+Author: Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+Release Date: October 29, 2007 [EBook #23234]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Daniel Griffith and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Kentuckiana Digital Library)
+
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS
+
+BY
+
+OLIVE TILFORD DARGAN
+
+
+
+
+  BRENTANO'S
+  NEW YORK
+  1904
+
+
+  Copyright 1904
+  By Olive Tilford Dargan
+  [Stage rights reserved]
+
+  THE LITERARY COLLECTOR PRESS
+  GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+  SEMIRAMIS        5
+
+  CARLOTTA        75
+
+  THE POET       175
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. The tent of Menones
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Hall in the palace of Ninus
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. The gardens over the lake
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. The tent of Husak
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  NINUS, king of Assyria
+  HUSAK, king of Armenia
+  KHOSROVE, son of Husak
+  MENONES, governor of Nineveh
+  ARTAVAN, son of Menones
+  SUMBAT, friend of Artavan
+  VASSIN, officer of the king
+  HADDO, a guard
+  ARMIN, a guard
+  DOKAHRA, woman to Semiramis
+  SOLA, wife of Artavan
+  SEMIRAMIS, daughter of Menones
+
+  Officers, heralds, messengers, guards, soldiers, dancers, &c.
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene: Within the tent of Menones, on the plain before Nineveh.
+Left, centre, entrance to tent from the plain. Curtains rear,
+forming partition with exits right and left of centre. The same
+at right, with one exit, centre. Couch rear, between exits. From
+a tent-pole near exit, right centre, hang helmet and a suit of
+chain armor.
+
+Sola parts curtains rear, left, and looks out, showing effort to
+keep awake. She steps forward.
+
+ Sol.     Hist! Armin! Haddo!
+
+          (Enter two guards, left centre)
+
+                              Still no news?
+
+ Arm.                                         None, lady.
+
+ Sol.     Oh, Artavan, what keeps thee?
+
+ Haddo.                                 He will come.
+
+ Sol.     Semiramis is sleeping. I am weary,
+          But I'll not sleep.
+
+ Arm.                         Rest, madam; we will call you.
+
+ Sol.     My lord shall find me watching, night or day!
+
+ Arm.     Two nights you have not slept.
+
+ Sol.                                     Ten thousand nights,
+          I think, good Armin.
+
+ Had.                           We will call you, madam.
+
+ Arm.     With the first hoof-beat ringing from the north!
+
+ Sol.     (At curtains, drowsily)
+          I'll be--awake.
+
+                          (Goes in)
+
+ Had.                     She'll sleep now.
+
+ Arm.                                       Ay, she must.
+
+ Had.     And I'd not call her for god Bel himself!
+
+ Arm.     Hark! (Goes to entrance)
+                'Tis a horseman!
+
+ Had.     (Following him)         Two!
+
+ Arm.                                   Right! We must rouse
+          The lady Semiramis.
+
+ Had.                         Make sure 'tis he. (They step out)
+
+ Voice without.
+          Is this Menones' tent?
+
+ Arm.     (Without)               Ay, Sir! The word!
+
+ Voice.   God Ninus!
+
+          (Semiramis enters, through curtains right centre)
+
+ Sem.                 Artavan! His voice!
+
+          (Enter Artavan, followed by Sumbat who waits near entrance)
+
+ Sem.                                     My brother!
+
+ Art.     Semiramis! (Embracing her) Three years this kiss
+          Has gathered love for thee!
+
+ Sem.                                 Has 't been so long
+          Since I left Gazim?
+
+ Art.                         Ay,--since Ninus called
+          Our father here, and Gazim lost her dove.
+
+ Sem.     (On his bosom, laughing softly)
+          The dove of Gazim,--so they called me then.
+          But now--(proudly, moving from him) the lioness of Nineveh!
+
+ Art.     A warrior's daughter!
+
+ Sem.                           And a warrior's sister!
+          O, I have prayed that you might come! The king
+          Is gracious--loves the brave--
+
+ Art.                                     Our father?
+
+ Sem.                                                 Ah!
+
+ Art.     He's well?
+
+ Sem.                 Is 't day?
+
+ Art.                             Almost.
+
+ Sem.                                     At dawn he meets
+          The Armenians on the plain.
+
+ Art.                                 Then he is well!
+
+ Sem.     He went forth well,--and brave as when he drove
+          The Ghees from Gazim with his single sword!
+          But--oh--he needs you, Artavan, he needs you!
+
+          (Comes closer speaking rapidly)
+
+          I'm with him night and day but when he battles--
+          I buckle on his arms--cheer him away--
+          And wipe the foe's blood from his mighty sword
+          When he returns! But I've a fear so strange!
+          At times he's moved quite from himself,--so far
+          That I look on him and see not our father!
+          If I dared speak I'd almost say that he
+          Who never lost a battle shrinks from war!
+
+ Art.     (Starting) No, no! Not that! You borrow eyes of fear
+          And see what is not!
+
+ Sem.                           But I've felt the drops
+          Cold on his brow, and raised his lifeless arms
+          Whose corded strength hung slack as a sick child's!
+          O, it is true! And you must stand by him!
+          Fight at his side! I thought to do it! I!
+          See here, my armor!
+
+          (Moving with him to where the armor hangs)
+
+                              When I had this made
+          And swore to wear it in the fight, 'twas then
+          He yielded--said that you might come--
+
+          (Sound of trumpets at distance. They listen)
+
+                                                  The charge!
+
+ Art.     I go to him!
+
+ Sem.     (Taking a paper from her bosom)
+
+                        Take this! He'll understand!
+          'Tis some direction later thought upon!
+
+ Art.     My wife is safe--
+
+ Sem.                       With me! Three days ago
+          She came. And now she sleeps--
+
+          (Points to curtains, rear left)
+
+ Art.                                     In there? One kiss--
+
+ Sem.     Nay, nay, you go to battle, and should keep
+          Steel in your eye, not woman's tears!... Who comes
+          With you?
+
+          (Looks toward entrance where Sumbat stands)
+
+                    O, Sumbat!
+
+          (He advances and drops on knee. She gives him both hands
+          and he rises)
+
+                                Welcome! But no time
+          For gallant greetings! We are warriors here!
+
+          (A roll of battle is heard)
+
+ Art.     We go!
+
+ Sem.             Ride! ride! The battle over, ye
+          Shall meet the king!
+
+          (Artavan and Sumbat hasten out. The noise of departure
+          brings Sola to curtains)
+
+ Sol.                           What is it? Who was here?
+
+ Sem.     (Absorbed)                        They'll reach my father!
+
+ Sol.     Not Artavan?
+
+ Sem.                   Ay--he.
+
+ Sol.                           And gone--my husband!
+          Without a word--a look!
+
+ Sem.                             The battle calls,
+          And he who wears ambition's spur must ride!
+
+ Sol.     Ambition! O, you think of naught but war
+          And glory! Hast thou no heart, Semiramis?
+
+ Sem.     I' faith, and love thee with it! (kisses her)
+
+ Sol.                                       Trifle not!
+          Hadst thou a heart thou couldst not live a maid,
+          So beautiful, and never dream of love!
+          Thou'rt some strange thing--
+
+ Sem.                                   What, wilt be angry? Come!
+          I'll tell thee all he said--thy Artavan,--
+          Ay, every word, and how his eyes grew soft
+          With dimness sweeter than their vanquished light
+          When thou wert his dear theme!
+
+          (They move to curtains. Semiramis stops and listens)
+
+                                          Go in. I'll come. (Sola goes in)
+
+ Sem.     (Listening) Is that a chariot? My father!... Nay!
+          He's safe with Artavan! Whatever comes
+          His son will be his heart and bear him up!
+          Safe, safe, Menones, and thy grizzled locks
+          Shall wear their laurels to an honored grave!
+
+          (Noise of approaching chariot)
+
+          It _is_ a chariot! Can it be the king?
+
+          (Chariot stops without)
+
+          Armin, who is it comes?
+
+ Arm.     (Appearing at entrance) The Lord Menones.
+
+          (Semiramis sways, steadies herself, and waits. Menones
+          enters, livid and trembling. In form he is large and
+          mighty, but is grey with age. He staggers over to couch
+          and sits upon it, groaning heavily. Semiramis looks at him
+          in silence. Then approaches and speaks in a low terrified
+          tone)
+
+ Sem.     You fled the battle!
+
+ Men.                           Oh!
+
+ Sem.                               You must go back!
+
+ Men.     Too late!
+
+ Sem.     (Gaining courage and putting her hands sternly on his
+          shoulders)  No!
+
+ Men.                     We must fly!
+
+ Sem.                                   Fly! Never!
+
+ Men.     (Rising)                                  Come!
+          The chariot! The king will leave my race
+          No blood on earth!
+
+ Sem.                         If it be coward's blood
+          'Tis better lost!
+
+ Men.                       Come, come! We yet can fly!
+
+ Sem.     Back to the battle! There I'll go with thee!
+
+ Men.     I can not! Oh, the terror's here--here--here!
+          It clutches at my heart!
+
+ Sem.                               Tear out thy heart
+          And keep thy honor whole!
+
+          (He falls on the couch, shaken with suffering. She kneels
+          by him pleading passionately)
+
+ Sem.                               Up, father, up!
+          You must go back! You know not what you've done!
+          Our Artavan--
+
+ Men.                   Praise Bel, he's safe in Gazim!
+
+ Sem.     No ... he is here ... he came, and rode to find you.
+
+ Men.     He came? Gods, no!
+
+ Sem.                         Nay, true! He's in the battle!
+          Now you will go! You will go back, my father!
+          He does not know the plan! He can not lead
+          Without your counsel! Come--your voice--his arm--
+          And all is safe!
+
+          (He rises; noise of battle; he sinks shuddering)
+
+ Men.                       No--I'll die here--not there!
+
+          (Semiramis stands in despair; then lifts her arms praying)
+
+ Sem.     O mighty Belus, give me back my father!
+
+          (She listens with sudden eagerness and goes to tent door)
+
+          False! false! They're verging south! North, north, ye cowards!
+
+          (Rushes to her armor and takes it down. Shakes the
+          curtains right, and calls)
+
+          Dokahra! (Throws off her robe and begins putting on armor.
+          Enter Dokahra, right centre)
+
+ Dok.     Mistress!
+
+ Sem.               Buckle here! Be quick!
+
+ Men.     You shall not go!
+
+ Sem.                       You have no might or right
+          To stay me now!
+
+ Men.                     You will be lost!
+
+ Sem.                                       Lost? No!
+          Did I not plan this battle? Haste, Dokahra!
+          Our lives are in your fingers! Courage, father!
+
+          (Going, Dokahra still adjusting armor)
+
+          The king has smiled on me--I do not know--
+          But there was such a promise in his smile--
+          And if the victory's mine he will forgive!
+
+ Dok.     This rivet, mistress!
+
+          (Noise of battle)
+
+ Sem.                           Artavan, I come!
+
+          (Rushes out. Sound of chariot rolling away. Dokahra looks
+          stolidly at Menones for a moment, then turns through
+          curtains, right. Menones presses his heart in pain, moans
+          wretchedly, and draws a blanket over his body)
+
+ Men.     Is this the form that bright Decreto loved?
+          But where the soul, O, gods! (Lies shuddering)
+
+ Voice without.                         The King!
+
+          (Menones draws blanket over his face and becomes
+          motionless. Enter the king, with Vassin)
+
+ Nin.     (At entrance)                           Stand here!
+          Godagon, haste! Ride to Menones; say
+          We wait within his tent; his messengers
+          Will reach us here.
+
+          (A rider spurs off without. Ninus and Vassin advance
+          within the tent)
+
+ Vas.                         Your majesty, suppose
+          The Armenians gain, you'll be in danger here.
+          Why come so near for news?
+
+ Nin.                                 For news, good Vassin?
+          I had a better reason. Semiramis
+          Tents with her father.
+
+          (Points to curtains)
+
+ Vas.                             Ah!
+
+ Nin.                                 The sun will break
+          Through there!
+
+ Vas.                     My lord--
+
+ Nin.                               She stirs! She comes! Wait--see!
+
+          (Dokahra's gaunt figure appears at curtains)
+
+ Vas.     A false dawn, is it not?
+
+ Nin.                               Your mistress sleeps?
+
+ Dok.     (Abasing herself)
+          No, mighty king!
+
+ Nin.                       She's up? Then give her word
+          We're here.
+
+ Dok.                 She's not within, my lord.
+
+ Nin.                                             Abroad!
+          So soon? She's on the general's business?
+
+ Dok.     And yours, O king! She's joined the battle!
+
+ Nin.                                                 She!
+
+ Vas.     Ha! ha! Do you believe this?
+
+ Nin.                                   Ay ... 'tis so.
+          I know her spirit. Here's mettle for a queen!
+
+          (Menones uncovers and half rises)
+
+ Vas.     You would not make her one, your majesty!
+          Though she should lead your troops to victory,
+          Still is she but your general's daughter, and
+          Assyria's crown is given of gods to gods!
+
+ Nin.     And Ninus knows to keep his race untainted.
+          But all the jewels of a king, my Vassin,
+          Are not worn in his crown. Some in the heart
+          Are casketed, and there this maid shall shine
+          For me alone. Were she of heavenly race--
+
+ Men.     (Starting up) She is, my lord!
+
+          (Ninus regards him in astonishment)
+
+ Nin.                                     What do you here, Menones?
+          Speak!
+
+ Men.     (Trembling) I am ill.
+
+ Nin.                           Ill, sir? Ha! Now I know!
+          Your daughter leads while you couch safe in tent!
+          She sought to hide your shame! O, what a heart!
+          But you--
+
+ Men.               I led, my lord, till illness seized--
+
+ Nin.     Too ill to fight, but not too ill to fly!
+          Hound! hound! My troops are lost! I'd kill you now
+          But 'tis an hour too soon! First you must be
+          Of every honor stript!
+
+ Men.     (Kneeling) My lord and king,
+          I know that I must die, but hear a prayer
+          For my brave daughter's sake! Betray her not,
+          Lest thou offend the gods that gave thee life,
+          For she, too, is of heaven!
+
+ Vas.                                 Ha!
+
+ Men.                                     I swear
+          'Tis true! My lord, Decreto was her mother!
+          She met me on the plains of Gazim when
+          This aged figure was called fair, and youth
+          Still fed its fire to manhood's prime;
+          Our babe she left upon a mountain crest
+          And sent her doves to tend it through a year,
+          Then bade me scale the mount and take my own.
+          I did, and named her for Decreto's dove--
+          Semiramis!
+
+ Nin.                 What precious tale is this?
+
+ Vas.     He thinks to fright you from the maid, my lord.
+
+ Dok.     (Falling at the king's feet)
+          O king, 'tis true! Ask thou in Gazim--
+
+ Nin.                                             Go!
+
+          (Dokahra vanishes through curtains left rear)
+
+ Nin.     'T will take a better lie to save your head!
+
+ Men.     My head? Thou'rt welcome to it! 'Tis not that!
+          But she--my daughter--
+
+ Nin.                             We will spare her life.
+
+ Men.     (Calmly) It is my prayer that she may die with me.
+
+ Nin.     Not while we love. If e'er she lose her charm,
+          We may remember that you were her father.
+
+ Men.     (Furiously, forgetting himself)
+          She has a brother yet!
+
+ Nin.                             A brother! So!
+          We'll look to him as well! Thanks for your news!
+
+ Men.     (Towering up) Though every god in heaven gave thee blood
+          Yet would I spill it!
+
+          (Lifts his sword; suddenly drops it and falls, pressing
+          his heart. Ninus and Vassin watch him silently until he
+          is still)
+
+ Nin.                           Dead?
+
+ Vas.     (Stooping)                  Ay, dead, my lord.
+
+ Nin.     I would have spared him though I threatened death.
+
+ Vas.     Have spared the coward? Why, your majesty?
+
+ Nin.     Semiramis has spirit passing woman's;
+          I have no hope to force her to my arms,
+          And I'd have wrought her heart to tenderness
+          By mercy to her father. Love is my aim!
+          All else I can command--but that--Guards here!
+
+          (Enter Armin and Haddo)
+
+          Not you--my own! But wait--a word! Where sleeps
+          Menones?
+
+ Arm.     (Pointing) There, O king!
+
+          (The body of Menones lies behind the king and Vassin,
+          unseen by the guards. Exeunt Armin and Haddo. Enter the
+          king's guards)
+
+ Nin.                               Take up this body.
+          Place it within.
+
+          (Guards go in with Menones' body)
+
+ Vas.                       What would you do, my lord?
+
+ Nin.     You'll know in time.
+
+          (Re-enter guards)     Hark! You saw nothing!
+
+ Guards.  (Bowing to floor)                             Nothing.
+          O mighty Ninus! (Exeunt)
+
+ Nin.                     I will have her love!
+          Vassin, this story of her goddess birth
+          Is true!
+
+ Vas.     How knows your majesty?
+
+ Nin.                             It speaks
+          In all her motions. Every glance and grace
+          Revouches it. E'en your dull eye must know
+          Her beauty is immortal, though her life
+          Is forfeit to the clay and must have end.
+
+ Vas.     Thou'lt find another fair! Youth blooms and goes!
+
+ Nin.     Not such as hers! Her brow's a holy page
+          Where chiselling Time dare never set a mark!
+          The sun hath been her lover, and so deep
+          Hath touched her locks with fire no winter hand
+          May shake his kisses out!
+
+ Vas.                               Why, thou'rt in love!
+
+          (Confused voices without. A messenger runs in and falls
+          at the feet of the king)
+
+ Nin.     Speak, sir!
+
+ Mes.                 Assyria wins! The Armenians fly!
+          They've lost their leader--
+
+ Nin.                                 Khosrove! Is he taken?
+
+ Mes.     Taken or slain, I know not which, but know
+          He leads no more the enemy! They fly
+          Before Semiramis!
+
+ Nin.                       Semiramis!
+
+ Mes.     Ay, all was rout until she reached the field
+          And spurred the--
+
+ Voice of herald without.   Victory! A victory!
+          Ninus is god and king!
+
+ Cries.                           A victory!
+
+          (Enter herald)
+
+ Herald.  Assyria triumphs o'er his enemies!
+
+ Nin.     Is Khosrove taken?
+
+ Her.                         Slain, the people cry!
+          The soldiers hail Semiramis their chief,
+          Call her a goddess, drag her chariot,
+          And shout and swear by Belus' ruling star
+          To be her slaves forever!
+
+ Nin.                               So they shall.
+
+ Vas.     Your majesty--
+
+ Nin.                     Peace, Vassin! Wait and see!
+
+          (Noise and cries without as Semiramis is drawn toward
+          the tent in her chariot)
+
+ Nin.     Ho! Guards!
+
+          (The king's guards enter. Ninus passes to right centre,
+          facing entrance opposite. Guards station themselves on
+          each side of him and in his rear. Semiramis enters,
+          followed by officers and soldiers. Her helmet is off,
+          her hair falling)
+
+ Nin.                 Hail goddess!
+
+          (Semiramis looks at the king in astonishment then glances
+          fearfully toward Menones' room)
+
+ Nin.                               Hail, Assyria's queen!
+
+ Sem.     (Faintly) O king--
+
+          (Ninus advances to her. She kneels before him)
+
+ Nin.                         Kneel down, Menones' daughter! Rise,
+          The bride of Ninus, nevermore to kneel!
+
+                                                  (Raises her)
+
+          This victory is proof, if proof I need,
+          That you are a true daughter of the skies,
+          Mate for the mightiest throne!
+
+                            (To soldiers) Cry festival!
+          The feast of triumph and the wedding revel
+          We'll hold together! Go!
+
+          (Exeunt soldiers, cheering without)
+
+ Nin.     (Taking the hand of Semiramis)
+
+                                    To-day thou'lt come?
+
+ Sem.     (Withdrawing her hand and bowing her head)
+          I am my king's.
+
+ Nin.     (Passing to exit) The royal chariot,
+          Within the hour, will take you from the tent
+          Unto our palace.
+
+          (Exeunt Ninus and attendants. Semiramis stands dazed.
+          Sola comes out softly and looks at her)
+
+ Sem.     (In rapture)      Ah, my father's safe!
+          I'll tell him!
+
+          (Hurries toward curtains right, rear, and stops at exit)
+
+                          No ... I'll wait. This joy is dead
+          If Artavan be lost!
+
+          (Sola springs toward her with a cry)
+
+ Sol.                         Be lost? Ah, no!
+          Where is he? Oh, not lost!
+
+ Sem.                                 He pushed too far
+          Amid the flying troops.
+
+ Sol.                             And you--you stole
+          His last look from my eyes!
+
+ Sem.                                 He may be saved.
+          For Sumbat followed him. He must be saved!
+          We'll hope till Sumbat comes.
+
+ Sol.                                   O, you know naught
+          Of love!
+
+ Sem.               I was his sister, Sola, ere
+          He made thee wife.
+
+ Sol.                         A sister! O, such love
+          Is nothing! Thou wilt smile at it
+          If ever thou'rt a wife!
+
+          (Semiramis is removing her armor. She stops and looks
+          questioningly at Sola; then shakes her head)
+
+ Sem.                             Nay, Sola, nay!...
+          Help me with this.... Somehow my heart is gone
+          And armor's for the brave.
+
+          (Putting on her robe)       Now 't has come back.
+          But beats and whispers like a maiden's own.
+          I am but half a warrior.... Do not sob.
+          Sumbat will bring us news.... Ah, he has come!
+
+          (Enter Sumbat)
+
+ Sol.     (Rushing to him and looking into his face)
+          Oh, lost! (Flies, sobbing, through the curtains, rear left)
+
+ Sem.     Speak.... Is it true?
+
+ Sum.                           I fear it is.
+          I could not save him, and they bore him off.
+
+ Sem.     Alive?
+
+ Sum.             Alive!
+
+ Sem.                     A prisoner! Not slain!
+          Then we may hope! I've captured Husak's son!
+
+ Sum.     Khosrove! Is he not under guard without?
+          A man most fair ... of lordly form, and young?
+
+ Sem.     'Tis he! Have him brought hither instantly!
+          To Husak word shall go on swiftest steed
+          That I will yield the prince for Artavan!
+
+          (Exit Sumbat)
+
+          He's safe ... if there be time ... if there be time!...
+          Husak, the Fierce ... but he must love his son,
+          And will be merciful to save him. Ay....
+          So brave a son. Now I recall his face,
+          It would have made me pause had not my eyes
+          Been dim with triumph.
+
+          (Enter Sumbat, followed by officers with Khosrove. The
+          officers fall back, leaving the captive before Semiramis.
+          He is stripped of all armor, and clothed in a scant tunic
+          revealing a figure of marked strength and grace. He stands
+          erect, but with head bowed, and his arms bound to his
+          sides)
+
+ Sem.     (Gazes at him)          Ah!... (She advances a step)
+
+                                          Armenian!
+
+          (At sound of her voice he lifts his head and looks at her
+          with eager recognition)
+
+ Sem.     (Stepping back) Armenian!
+
+ Khos.    (Proudly)                 Armenia, by your leave!
+          I am my father's house.
+
+ Sem.                             I'm glad 'tis so.
+          Then he should value thee.
+
+ Khos.                                He does.
+
+ Sem.                                           So much
+          That he will spare the life of Artavan
+          If we spare yours?
+
+ Khos.                        Who is this Artavan
+          Who evens me in price?
+
+ Sem.                             Menones' son.
+
+ Khos.    Menones? Governor of Nineveh?
+          Who fled my sword, fear-cold, and pale with terror?
+          Insult not Husak with so poor a suit!
+          That coward's race--
+
+ Sem.                           Am I a coward, sir?
+
+ Khos.    (In sudden dejection)
+          These fettered arms make answer, princess.
+
+ Sem.                                                 Nay,
+          I am Menones' daughter,--Artavan
+          My brother!
+
+ Khos.                Not the Assyrian princess? O,
+          Forgive me, lady! I am proud to be
+          Thy brother's price!
+
+ Sem.                           What surety have I
+          That Artavan still lives?
+
+ Khos.                              My word.
+
+ Officer.                                     His word!
+          O, noble madam, it is known to all
+          That Husak takes no prisoners of war.
+          They die before his tent.
+
+ Khos.                              Such is the custom--
+
+ Sem.     O me, my brother!
+
+ Khos.                      But I can avouch
+          That Artavan still lives.
+
+ Off.                               Trust not the word
+          Of captive foes, my lady. By what means
+          Can he know this?
+
+ Sem.                       Speak, sir.
+
+ Khos.                                  To you alone
+          I'll speak.
+
+ Sem.                 Nay--before all!
+
+ Khos.                                  Unto no ear
+          But thine.
+
+ Sem.                 Wouldst save thy life?
+
+ Khos.                                        Perhaps. Wouldst save
+          Thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                   Sumbat, wilt advise me?
+
+ Sum.                                           Trust him,
+          And hear what he would say.
+
+ Sem.                                 Out then, my friends,
+          I pray you.
+
+          (All go out but Semiramis and Khosrove.)
+
+                      Now!
+
+ Khos.                      My father swore to me
+          Before I led his troops 'gainst Nineveh,
+          All captives should be held at my disposal
+          And bloody custom waived. I would not speak
+          'Fore all, lest I should rob fierce Husak's name
+          Of terror which is half his sword.
+
+ Sem.                                         But now
+          He thinks you dead.
+
+ Khos.                        Not so. I've sent him word
+          By a sure mouth that I'm unhurt and held
+          A prisoner.
+
+ Sem.                 O then my brother's safe!
+          How gracious art thou, Heaven!
+
+          (Steps towards entrance)        Sumbat!
+
+ Khos.    (Stepping before her)                   Wait!
+
+ Sem.     What more?
+
+ Khos.                All--everything--there's nothing said!
+          Ninus will spare me not! 'Tis thou must save me!
+
+ Sem.     I! No! The king!
+
+ Khos.                      Not he! Is Artavan
+          Grown dearer than his hate to Husak? Nay--
+
+ Sem.     Sir, fear not Ninus. He will grant my suit.
+
+ Khos.    He will? You--you--
+
+ Sem.                         I've saved his army!
+
+ Khos.    (Relieved)                                Ah!
+          No more than that?
+
+ Sem.                         Enough!
+
+ Khos.                                No! 'T will not wipe
+          Revenge from out his heart,--and you have saved
+          But that your father threw away.
+
+ Sem.                                       Peace, sir!
+
+ Khos.    There's but one way for me--escape!
+
+ Sem.                                         No more!
+          Nay--not another word!
+
+ Khos.                            I must escape--
+
+ Sem.                                             Not one!
+
+ Khos.    That word unsaid slays Artavan,
+          Spoken it saves him! Once in Ninus' power
+          I have no hope of life, and with me dies
+          Your brother.
+
+ Sem.     (Scornfully)  Do not fear!
+
+ Khos.                                I fear? By Heaven!
+          Think you this heart is not a soldier's own
+          Because 'tis captive to a woman's sword?
+          A woman's sword! O little had thy sword
+          To do with my defeat! Unarmed thou wouldst
+          Have taken me--for 'twas thy beauty struck
+          My weapon to my side! (rapidly and passionately)
+                                When I bore down
+          Upon your chariot, I could have swept you
+          With one arm from the world! But suddenly
+          A missile struck your helmet and dislodged
+          The glory of your face before my eyes,
+          Your hair ran gold, the shining East looked black
+          Behind the star you made upon its breast!
+          I knew thee for a goddess, and stood still
+          Meek captive to thy wish! O blest am I
+          To learn thou art not greater than myself,
+          But so much less that I may lift thee up!
+          Fly with me--be my queen--
+
+          (Semiramis tries to speak)
+
+                                      Go, call them in!
+          I'll shout above their heads to reach thine ears!
+          O, trust to me! In me thy brother lives!
+          Come, and thy fallen father shall be brave
+          Beneath Armenia's smile! Here thou mayst save
+          His life, but ne'er again will he know honor!
+          Help me to fly and save three lives in one!
+          Give me to Ninus--give me up to death,
+          And with a father and a brother lost,
+          Though thou wert worshipped 'mong thy country's gods
+          Still thou couldst not be happy!
+
+ Sem.                                       Sir--
+
+ Khos.                                            But come,
+          And they are safe!
+
+ Sem.     (Bewildered)        What do I hear?
+
+ Khos.                                        O, come!
+          Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?
+          It is the fire that dead puts out the light
+          On every hearth, living makes all the world
+          One altar feeding incense unto Heaven!
+          It gives the soul to life, breath to the soul,
+          Pulse to ambition, strength to warrior arms,--
+
+          (Struggling with his fetters)
+
+          Such strength that they may break all captive bonds
+          To clasp their own!
+
+          (Breaks his fetters and attempts to embrace her as she
+          retreats gazing at him as if fascinated. She escapes him,
+          and throws off her bewilderment. He drops to his knees
+          holding out his arms to her)
+
+                              And love I offer thee!
+
+ Sem.     Sir, I forgive thee, for thou knowest not
+          To whom you speak!
+
+ Khos.                        Know not!
+
+ Sem.                                   I who am now
+          Menones' daughter, ere the night shall be
+          The bride of Ninus, king of all Assyria!
+
+          (Khosrove rises, bows before her, and stands with silent
+          dignity)
+
+ Sem.     You--you--were saying--
+
+ Khos.                            Nothing, royal madam.
+          Have you not friends without?
+
+          (Semiramis hesitates, goes to door and calls)
+
+ Sem.     Sumbat! (To Khosrove)         Thou'rt safe!
+
+ Khos.    (Ironically)
+          Assyria's queen should know!
+
+ Sem.                                   She does!
+
+          (Re-enter Sumbat and officers)
+
+ Sum.                                             Unbound!
+
+ Sem.     Ay, he is free! We only wait the word
+          Of gracious Ninus. Guard him until then,
+          We charge you, Sumbat. Keep you nearest him.
+
+          (Exeunt Sumbat and officers with Khosrove)
+
+ Sem.     My father now! He must have heard the shouts
+          Of victory, yet still he hides himself.
+          ... The king asked not for love. He is Assyria.
+          I would not lessen him by love. Not yet....
+          'Tis my triumphant arms he weds. The heart
+          Must sleep....
+
+ Voice of guard at entrance.
+                          The king approaches!
+
+ Sem.                                           Ah!... The king!
+          His word, and all is done. I'll speak to him
+          Before I see my father. Then I may say
+          'Thou art forgiven, and Artavan is safe!'
+          ... And Khosrove ... safe.... The royal chariot!...
+          O, mother, send thy doves--I am once more
+          A babe!
+
+          (The king enters alone)
+
+ Nin.             Art ready for thy king?
+
+ Sem.                                     I am--
+          And yet--a word before I go! Thou know'st
+          That Khosrove is my prisoner--
+
+ Nin.                                     Khosrove! He!
+          We thought him slain!
+
+ Sem.                           Nay, sir--
+
+ Nin.                                       A prisoner!
+          O, welcome gift! We ask no other dower!
+
+ Sem.     But, gracious lord--
+
+ Nin.     (Turning to entrance) Ho, Vassin! Khosrove's taken!
+          Go! Find him out and drag him straight to dungeon!
+          Bind him with chains until he can not move,
+          Till we've devised some bitter way of death!
+
+ Vas.     (Without) I haste, my lord!
+
+ Nin.               At last my enemy is 'neath my feet!
+
+          (Returning to Semiramis)
+
+          And 'tis to thee we owe this gift of fortune!
+          ... You're pale, Semiramis.
+
+ Sem.                                 O king--
+
+ Nin.     (Taking her hands)                    And trembling.
+          Dost fear my greatness? Nay, thou ledst my army--
+
+ Sem.     O, if for that thou ow'st me aught, grant me--
+
+ Nin.     Whate'er thou wouldst!
+
+ Sem.                             My brother, Artavan,
+          Is Husak's captive! Thou canst save him!
+
+ Nin.                                               I?
+          Then he is saved! But how! Tell me the way!
+
+ Sem.     Husak will yield him up for Khosrove!
+
+ Nin.                                           What
+          Send Khosrove back alive! Not though the gods
+          Commanded it! Alive! 'Twas Husak slew
+          My father, and his son shall die! Ten years
+          I've sought for this revenge! And give it up
+          For a green lad fresh from the fields of Gazim?
+
+ Sem.     A warrior, sir, who'll win thee many a battle!
+          And crest thy glory with meridian stars!
+          He's worth the price though pity lent no coin!
+          Save him, my lord! A bridal boon I ask!
+          Give me my brother!
+
+ Nin.                         A bridal boon I'll grant.
+          Thou lov'st thy father?
+
+ Sem.     (Choking)               You know--that he--
+
+ Nin.                                                 I know.
+
+ Sem.     Great king--
+
+ Nin.                   One thou mayst save.
+
+ Sem.                                         O gods!
+
+ Nin.     Thy brother, or thy father? Thou mayst choose.
+
+ Sem.     I know my duty, sir. I choose my father.
+
+ Nin.     A noble choice. We are not harsh, my queen.
+          The people know Menones' life is forfeit,
+          And know how I have sought for Khosrove's death;
+          Did I spare both for your sake they would say
+          That Ninus' scepter is a woman's hand.
+
+          (Shouts of rejoicing without)
+
+          But come! The chariot waits. The people call.
+
+ Sem.     First will I tell my father that he lives.
+          He's waiting there the summons to his death.
+          Ah, I must thank you sir.
+
+          (Takes the king's hand and kisses it. Goes through
+          curtains, right, rear. Her cry is heard within. She
+          returns.)
+
+                                    Too late! He's dead!
+          Cold, cold, my father! Oh!
+
+          (Sobs, her hands covering her face)
+
+ Nin.     (Removing her hands and putting his arm about her)
+
+                                      Thou'rt not alone,
+          My bride!
+
+ Sem.     (Withdrawing and kneeling to him, her hands upraised)
+                    O king, leave me my brother!
+
+ Nin.                                             Nay!
+          Did you not have your choice? You ask too much.
+
+ Sem.     (Rising) Ah, so I do! I should demand, not ask!
+
+ Nin.     Demand!
+
+ Sem.             Ay, king! ... 'Tis true I'm not alone.
+          My goddess mother is again with me
+          As when this morn my heart exultant rode
+          The tides of triumph! When the heavens rolled
+          And like a stooping sea caught up my soul
+          Till ranged with the applauding gods it clapped
+          My courage on below! You offer me
+          A place beside your throne. I offer you
+          The hearts of all your subjects now my own,--
+          The love--the worship of your mighty army!
+
+          (Cries without)
+
+          They shout my name--not yours--great Ninus! Hear!
+
+ Shouts:  Semiramis is queen! Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     I bring a hand, with yours inlocked, shall reach
+          O'er Asia's breadth and draw her glory in!
+          A heart ambitious with immortal beat
+          To make Assyria greatest 'neath the stars!
+          And in return I ask my brother's life!
+          Give me your promise Khosrove goes to Husak,
+          Or leave me where I stand--Menones' daughter!
+
+ Nin.     (Slowly, reading the determination in her face)
+          I promise.
+
+ Sem.                 Swear!
+
+ Nin.                         I swear it!
+
+ Sem.     (Relaxes, falls at his feet, and reaches up, clasping his hands)
+                                          O, god Ninus!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+The great hall in the palace of Nineveh. The rear is open, showing
+the sky and the towers of the city. Along the floor, which is high
+above the ground court, rear, are sculptured lions. On each side
+of hall where right and left reach open rear are large entrances,
+with steps leading up to hall, guarded by spearmen and archers.
+Within the hall, between winged bulls, are entrances to chambers,
+right centre and left centre. Near front, right, smaller entrance
+between figures of men with lion heads. The same opposite, left.
+The walls of the hall are lined with alabaster slabs on which are
+sculptured and colored the conquests of Assyrian kings.
+
+Ninus alone. Enter Vassin, left centre.
+
+ Nin.     (As Vassin enters)
+          You've told her?
+
+ Vas.                       Ay, my lord.
+
+ Nin.                                     What does she say?
+          Does she suspect we ordered Khosrove's torture?
+
+ Vas.     I can not answer that.
+
+ Nin.                             Then answer this!
+          You're sure that he will die? You made good work?
+
+ Vas.     Good work, my lord. He can not live a day.
+
+ Nin.     A day! You've hurried then! I bade you fill
+          His wounds with mortal but a lingering bane!
+          Go, have him brought within! He must not die
+          Without my foot upon his neck!
+
+          (As Vassin is going)            What said
+          The queen?
+
+ Vas.     She cried 'My brother's lost!'
+
+ Nin.                                     No more?
+
+ Vas.     O, then her soul put sorrow's grandeur on,
+          And those about her saw a noble storm;
+          But yet so proud her royal eyes, each drop
+          That fell from them were worth a world
+          To him for whom they fell!
+
+ Nin.     (Aside)                     He loves the queen!
+
+          (Enter Semiramis, left, centre)
+
+ Sem.     Is this thing true my lord? O, surely Heaven
+          Will cry out 'No' though thou must answer 'Ay!'
+
+ Nin.     (To Vassin) Go! (Exit Vassin, right front)
+
+ Sem.                     Is it true?
+
+ Nin.                                 Too true, my queen!
+          Khosrove is maimed beyond all hope of life,
+          And thou must make thy husband heir to love
+          That was thy brother's.
+
+ Sem.                             Oh!
+
+ Nin.                                 Thy grief is mine.
+
+ Sem.     I will not weep, though I could shed such streams
+          As when the clouds from riven breast pour down
+          Their torrent agonies!... How strange, my lord,
+          The guards should venture so without your warrant!
+
+ Nin.     I've had their heads for it!
+
+ Sem.     (Shocked)                     Their heads!... Why, this
+          'Tis to be royal! Ah!
+
+ Nin.                           Put by these thoughts,
+          Semiramis. No theme to-day but love!
+
+ Sem.     Love, sir?
+
+ Nin.                 Ay, that! Thou lov'st me, dost thou not?
+
+ Sem.     Thou art great Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                           I'd be loved as man!
+          Forget my kingdom, and put arms about me
+          As doth the peasant maid her beggar lord!
+
+ Sem.     (Moving from him)
+          I thought thy greatness married my ambition
+          To make Assyria brave e'en to the gods!
+          I'll keep my promise ... howsoever thine
+          Is broken. Crowned, my glorious purpose beats
+          Higher than any dream my maiden heart
+          Could nourish! I will keep my word. But love?
+          If thou wouldst have it--win it!
+
+          (Starts away, then turns back to him)
+
+                                            Hast yet found
+          A governor for the city?
+
+ Nin.                               No.
+
+ Sem.                                   Delay
+          At this unsettled time? Dost think it safe?
+
+ Nin.     I've ordered every tower-watch redoubled,
+          Each gate close-locked, and keep the keys myself!
+          None goes or comes till I have found the man
+          For governor.
+
+ Sem.                   Would not Vassin serve?
+
+ Nin.     (With suspicion)
+          I've other use for him. Perchance he'll go
+          From Nineveh.
+
+ Sem.                   My lord, there's one from Gazim,
+          Sumbat, thou'lt find as true as thine own heart.
+          Who with some aid from me--
+
+ Nin.                                 From you? So, so!
+
+ Sem.     (In surprise)
+          I was my father's head and hand, my lord.
+          Who knows the guardian locks and wards and plans
+          Secretive for thy safety but myself?
+          Whom thou dost choose must learn somewhat of me.
+
+ Nin.     Ay, you'll nob heads together!
+
+ Sem.                                     Sir?
+
+ Nin.                                           Well, well--
+          I'll choose a man!
+
+          (Exit moodily, right centre)
+
+ Sem.                         Strange ... but he is the king!
+          ... Ah, Khosrove! Artavan!... Nay, I will think
+          Of nothing but my duty to the crown!...
+          ... "And with a father and a brother lost--"
+
+          (Enter Sola, left, front. She sees that Semiramis is alone
+          and advances)
+
+ Sem.     "Though thou wert worshipped, thou couldst not be happy!"
+
+ Sol.     Tell me! When does he come?
+
+ Sem.                                 Who, child?
+
+ Sol.                                             You ask?
+          My husband--Artavan!
+
+ Sem.                           He will not come.
+
+ Sol.     Art thou not queen?
+
+ Sem.                         And Ninus king.
+
+ Sol.     He will not save thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                                   Nay, he can not.
+
+ Sol.     O monster king!
+
+ Sem.                     Hush, Sola ... he forgave
+          My father.
+
+ Sol.                 Oh!--because he knew him dead!
+
+ Sem.     He knew him dead!
+
+ Sol.                       Ah, I will tell you now!
+
+          (Looks about guardedly, and speaks in a low tone)
+
+          I saw your father die--and Ninus saw him!
+          Dokahra waked me--and unseen we watched!
+          The king came to the tent--discovered all--
+          Doomed him to death--you to dishonor! Then
+          Your father rose to strike him--and fell dead.
+          The king--
+
+ Sem.                 Go! Leave me, Sola! Leave me! Go!
+
+          (Exit Sola, left, near front)
+
+ Sem.     (Stands in silent horror, then speaks slowly)
+          ... I'll keep my oath ... and crown. Still will I make
+          Assyria great. Assyria is the army,
+          And I ... am queen of arms ... not love! Not love!
+
+          (Re-enter Ninus)
+
+ Sem.     (Softly, not seeing Ninus)
+          "Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?"
+
+ Nin.     (Advancing) My bride!
+
+ Sem.     (Turning to him)      My lord, I would see Sumbat. Pray
+          Let him be summoned.
+
+ Nin.                           Nay, we've sworn this day
+          Shall be for us alone!
+
+ Sem.                             'Twas he I charged
+          With care of the Armenian prince.
+
+ Nin.                                       My queen
+          Shall not be troubled.
+
+ Sem.                             'T will not trouble me,
+          My lord.
+
+ Nin.               Enough it troubles me!
+
+ Sem.                                       He'd know
+          Of this foul fault, against your will--
+
+ Nin.                                             Again
+          That theme! Forget it!
+
+ Sem.                             O, my lord, forget
+          That noble prince? So brave--so proud--so fair--
+
+ Nin.     What do you say? O, you changed eyes with him!
+
+ Sem.     My lord!
+
+ Nin.               This is your grief! Your brother! Ha!
+
+ Sem.     Your majesty--
+
+ Nin.                     Not majesty! Fool! Fool!
+          Ho, there! Bring in the Armenian! You shall see
+          This noble prince! So brave--so proud--so fair!
+          Her brother! O, fool, fool, fool!
+
+ Sem.                                       This the king?
+
+ Nin.     Why, I'm a fool, my lady!
+
+          (Guards enter right front with a half lifeless body)
+
+                                    Look on him!
+          He's had some kisses since you saw him last
+          That struck full deep!
+
+ Sem.     (Staggering back)       Is that--
+
+ Nin.                                       Ay, it is he!
+          Look on him! 'Tis your Khosrove! Your--
+
+ Sem.     (Majestically)                          Peace Ninus!
+          When you have knelt to me I'll hear you speak!
+
+          (Exit left centre)
+
+ Nin.     (Stares after her and becomes calm)
+          Now I have ruined all. She'll not forgive!
+
+          (Enter Vassin, left, rear)
+
+ Vas.     My lord, the brother of the queen has come.
+
+ Nin.     Not Artavan?
+
+ Vas.                   Ay, Artavan.
+
+ Nin.                                 He's here?
+
+ Vas.     When Husak had your oath you'd free his son,
+          Prince Khosrove, Artavan was sent at once
+          To Nineveh.
+
+ Nin.                 How could he pass
+          The gates?
+
+ Vas.                 He passed before your order fell.
+
+ Nin.     We'll welcome him.
+
+          (Looks toward the queen's room)
+
+                              I'll make my peace with this.
+
+          (Goes out with Vassin, left, rear. Semiramis enters
+          hesitatingly, sees that Ninus is gone and advances
+          fearfully toward the figure on the floor. The guards
+          stand back, right front. She retreats, covering her
+          eyes; then approaches and bends over the body. Searches
+          his face, and throws up her hands in sudden joy)
+
+ Sem.     Not Khosrove! O, it is not Khosrove!
+
+          (Leaves him and hurries to exit, trying to suppress her
+          emotion. Returns to the body)
+
+          Where is the prince? Poor wretch! Can you not speak?
+          ... Are these thy ways, ambition?
+
+ Voice without.                             Way! Make way!
+
+          (Semiramis hurries to her room. Enter the king, left rear,
+          walking with Khosrove, and followed by Vassin and Sumbat)
+
+ Nin.     Speak not of going, Artavan!
+
+ Khos.                                  I must,
+          O king! I pray your leave to go at once
+          To Gazim. Sudden troubles urge me there.
+          I beg your kingly warrant I may pass
+          The gates--
+
+ Nin.     Nay, you shall stay! We shall persuade you!
+
+          (To attendant)
+          Summon the queen. Her voice we'll add to ours.
+
+ Khos.    My lord--
+
+ Nin.               We like you, Artavan! By Bel,
+          We do! You're worthy of your sister queen!
+          No more--you'll stay! ... See! This is Khosrove!
+
+          (Bends over body on the floor)                    Is--
+
+          Or was? ... He lives.... Think you these bones will hold
+          Until they reach old Husak? Now you've come,
+          We must keep faith! Ha! ha!
+
+ Khos.                                And that--is Khosrove?
+
+ Nin.     Truth, 'tis! ... Bear out the dog!
+
+          (Guards bear off body, right front. Enter Semiramis.
+          Sumbat crosses to her)
+
+ Sem.     My brother? Where?
+
+ Khos.                        Here! (Advancing to her)
+
+ Sum.     (To Semiramis)            Be not amazed
+          And Artavan is safe!
+
+ Nin.                           This welcome's cold
+          Methinks. We gave him warmer greeting.
+
+ Sem.                                             Sir,
+          Such sudden joy--My brother knows there's none
+          I hold more dear.
+
+ Nin.                       How now? Not one?
+
+ Sem.     (Dropping her eyes from Khosrove)   Yes--one--
+          Perhaps.
+
+ Nin.     (Pleased, taking her hand)
+                    We are forgiven?
+
+ Sem.                                 Indeed, my lord.
+
+ Nin.     And for your brother, hear our royal word.
+          We make him governor of Nineveh!
+
+ Sem.     (In alarm)
+          No! no!
+
+ Nin.             'Tis done! Go, Vassin, bring the keys!
+
+          (Exit Vassin, right front)
+
+          And wear this ring, my general!
+
+ Khos.                                    My lord,
+          I could not undertake--
+
+ Nin.                             You shall!--The queen
+          Will charge you with all duties.
+
+ Sem.                                       No! I will not!
+
+ Nin.     Ay, ay! We know we please you 'gainst your word
+          And not your will.
+
+ Sem.                         He is too young, my lord!
+
+ Nin.     Menones was too old. And 'twas yourself
+          Who taught us how to prize your brother.
+
+          (Re-enter Vassin with a chain of great keys, which the
+          king takes)
+
+                                                    Come!
+
+          (Throws chains about Khosrove's neck, and singles out
+          the keys)
+
+          The citadel! The southern arsenal!
+          The northern wall--the secret passages--
+          And these the tunnel locks and river gates!
+          You'll take command at once, and so relieve
+          The city which we've shut fast as a tomb,
+          Fearing that spies from Husak's camp might creep
+          Into our bosom.
+
+ Khos.                    Wisely done, my lord.
+
+ Sem.     O king, if 't must be so, I'll map for him
+          My fathers safe division of the city.
+
+ Nin.     To you we leave him.
+
+          (Talks apart with Vassin and Sumbat)
+
+ Sem.                           Sir, what do you mean?
+
+ Khos.    (Hurriedly) When Vassin came to take me into charge,
+          Sumbat contrived another should be sent--
+
+ Sem.     We know the rest! But how save Artavan?
+
+ Khos.    When I have entered Husak's camp he's free!
+          You trust me?
+
+ Sem.                   O, I must! I do! But not
+          To save my brother may I trust to you
+          The city's keys! You are Assyria's foe--
+
+ Khos.    Not now! No more a foe, but truest friend!
+          For in my heart you are Assyria,
+          And you I'd serve--
+
+ Nin.                         Cut short thy schooling, for
+          The city waits.
+
+ Sem.     (Aloud, mapping in her hand) The river here divides
+          The eastern guard--(lowers her voice) I must not do this! No!
+          Risk every soul in Nineveh--
+
+ Khos.                                  Did I
+          Not trust thee when I entered here? I knew
+          The face that shone upon me in the battle
+          Would not betray me! Who gives perfect trust
+          Is worthy of it! Thou dost know me true
+          By Heaven's sign that only souls may read!
+          I can not say what I would say because
+          Thou art a wife, but wert thou not a wife,
+          Though thou wert thousand times a queen, I'd pour
+          Such worship to your ears you would believe
+          My heart would rend my body's walls and leap
+          Out of my bosom sooner than beat once
+          A traitor to your trust! Take Ninus' ring!
+          Give me this little one--(slipping a ring from her finger)
+                                    that hath enclosed
+          The sovereign rose and ruby of thy veins
+          That dims his purple power--and thee I serve--
+          Your general--not his! Whate'er you would
+          I will! Command me now--
+
+ Sem.                               Enough! Go, go!
+          Lose no more time!
+
+ Khos.                        O, in some dream to come,
+          When innocence may wear what form it will
+          And on thy waking nature leave no blush,
+          May words I must not speak take life and pay
+          The debt they owe this hour!
+
+ Sem.                                   I beg you go!
+          Assyria's in your hands!
+
+ Khos.                              Nay, in my heart!
+
+ Nin.     Come, Artavan! No more delay! Your troops
+          Await before the citadel.
+
+ Khos.                              I go,
+          My lord.
+
+          (Confusion without, left rear. Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.               Pardon, your majesty! A man
+          Who says he's brother to the queen, makes bold
+          To press before you!
+
+ Nin.                           Yet another brother?
+
+ Sem.     No, no, my lord!
+
+ Off.                       He comes from Husak's camp.
+
+ Sem.     It is some madman surely, or a spy
+          Who plays his wits are lost and takes this way
+          To force into the court!
+
+ Khos.                              I'll thrust him out!
+          He may mean danger to your person.
+
+ Nin.                                         Nay,
+          We'll sport with him. Let him come in!
+
+          (Exit Officer)
+
+ Sem.                                             My lord--
+
+ Nin.     Your brother! Ho, ho, ho!
+
+          (Enter Artavan)
+
+ Art.                               My sister!
+
+ Sem.     (Staring)                             Sir?
+
+ Art.     Though queen, art thou not still my sister?
+
+ Sem.                                                 No!
+
+ Art.     (Bowing with scornful ceremony)
+          Your majesty!
+
+ Nin.                   Ha! ha! His sister! Then
+          Thou wouldst be brother to the king?
+
+ Art.     (Bitterly)                            My hope
+          Runs not so high, and even to her I now
+          Give up all claim. I'll own no blood but that
+          In my own veins keeps honor! So farewell!
+
+ Nin.     Be not so fast! Whence comest thou, my man?
+
+ Art.     From Husak's camp. When he received thy word
+          His son should go to him, he set me free.
+
+ Sem.     Oh, set you free!
+
+ Art.                       And now, O king--
+
+ Sem.     (Seeing that the king is impressed) My lord,
+          If he came from the camp how has he passed
+          The city gates?
+
+ Nin.                     Ah ... true ... he could not pass.
+
+ Sem.     (Mockingly) Perhaps he scaled the hundred feet of wall,
+          And crossed the rampart 'neath the arrow watch
+          Of towers eighty-score!
+
+ Art.                             I found a way,
+          Proud woman!
+
+ Nin.                   How?
+
+          (As Artavan speaks Sola enters left front, and is held
+          aside by Sumbat)
+
+ Art.                         This morning ere the battle
+          She who was then my sister gave me this.
+
+          (Shows paper)
+
+          'Twas some direction sent unto my father,
+          The lord Menones. (Turning paper) On this side I found
+          A map whose secret key I knew, that marked
+          A passage 'neath the river. This I sought,
+          Found it unguarded--
+
+ Nin.                           By the seven winds!--
+
+          (Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.     O king!
+
+ Nin.             You're of the northern watch?
+
+ Off.                                           I am,
+          O king! The Armenians advance upon
+          The northern wall, but come with lances down!
+
+ Art.     They come in peace to meet the son of Husak!
+
+ Sem.     O, haste, my lord! Haste, Artavan to duty!
+          Their rage when they shall learn the fate of Khosrove
+          May give them courage to assail our walls!
+          Go, brother!
+
+ Nin.                   Hold! This man speaks not as madmen!
+
+ Sem.     Should I not know my brother, sir?
+
+ Nin.                                         You should.
+          Choose which is he. The other we condemn
+          To death.
+
+ Art.     (Holding out his arms)
+                    Save me, Semiramis!
+
+ Khos.    (Holding out his arms)        Save me,
+          My sister!
+
+ Sem.     (Going to Khosrove's arms)
+                      Brother!
+
+ Nin.     (To Khosrove)         Haste thee to thy office!
+          Vassin, attend him! Sumbat, be his chief!
+          We trust where trusts the queen!
+
+ Sem.     (To Khosrove)                     Give up the keys
+          To Sumbat!
+
+          (Exeunt Khosrove, Vassin, Sumbat, left rear)
+
+ Nin.     (To Artavan) You to death! (Signs to guards)
+
+ Sem.                                 My royal lord,
+          First would I question him alone, and learn
+          The truth about this passage. He may be
+          In league with traitors subtler than himself.
+          One moment, sir, I pray.
+
+ Nin.                               O, ever wise!
+          Bribe him with any promise death may keep
+          To tell you all. But do not linger, love;
+          We lose our bridal day!
+
+          (Exit, right centre. Semiramis looks at Artavan with
+          the greatest tenderness. He gazes coldly upon her, Sola
+          clinging to him)
+
+ Art.                             What would the queen?
+
+ Sem.     To be again thy sister. Dost not guess?
+          That man--
+
+ Art.                 Who can he be you prize above
+          Your honor and my life?
+
+ Sem.                             The son of him
+          Who set you free on Ninus' oath, an oath
+          Broke in the heart ere it had left the lips!
+
+ Art.     My brave Semiramis! You've saved the prince,
+          And with his life my honor! O, pardon me!
+
+ Sem.     He was escaping in your name when you
+          Arrived too soon--
+
+ Art.                         Forgive me that!
+
+ Sem.                                           And now
+          To save my brother!
+
+ Art.                         Hope it not. Be glad
+          That one is safe. Had Khosrove lost his life
+          In Ninus' court, my oath had driven me back
+          To Husak--and to death. No power then
+          Had saved me. Now--
+
+ Sem.                         Now thou shalt live!
+
+ Art.                                               Nay, see!
+          His guards watch well! There is no way.
+
+ Sem.                                             No way
+          But through the will of Ninus. He shall save thee!
+
+ Art.     O, for your own dear life, Semiramis,
+          Let Ninus know not I am Artavan!
+
+ Sem.     He dare not touch me, for the army's mine!
+
+          (Goes into Ninus' chamber)
+
+ Sol.     My love!
+
+ Art.               'Tis welcome and farewell, my Sola!
+
+ Sol.     O, she will save thee!
+
+ Art.                             Teach me not to hope.
+
+          (A band of dancing maidens enter, left, and sing a bridal
+          chorus before the doors of Ninus' chamber)
+
+                  Love and Beauty now are one,
+                    No more wandering away!
+                  Love's the sky to Beauty's sun,
+                    From him she can not stray.
+                  And he is bright by her fair light or none!
+
+                  Love and Beauty dreaming lie,
+                    Who shall say it is not meet?
+                  Who shall say, O fie, O fie,
+                    To the favor sweet
+                  That Love will ask and Beauty not deny?
+
+          (Maidens dance out, right. Re-enter Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.     He's wild with rage! I can not calm him!
+
+ Sol.                                               Oh,
+          To lose thee now!
+
+          (Enter Ninus. He advances upon Semiramis)
+
+ Nin.                       Who is he, then--that man--
+          If not thy brother? To whose arms you went
+          As you have never come to mine?
+
+ Sem.                                     A man
+          Whose life you owed to me by holiest promise
+          And oath unto the gods! I saved your soul
+          When I so saved--
+
+ Nin.                       Speak! Who?
+
+ Sem.                                   The son of Husak,
+          Prince Khosrove, of Armenia!
+
+          (Utter silence. Ninus stands choked and dumb; then moves
+          to strike Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.                                   Strike me
+          You strike your army!
+
+          (Ninus drops his hand and stares at her, livid and shaken,
+          then turns fiercely upon Artavan)
+
+ Sem.     (Rushes before him and falls, clinging to his knees)
+                                Wait, O wait, my lord!
+          If thou dost Hope to know my love! Dost dream
+          Of bridal joy! Wouldst rest thy head in peace
+          Upon my bosom, say thou wilt forgive!
+          And I, too, will forgive! No more will ask
+          What thou hast done or not done! All thy past
+          Is fair as Heaven by this moment's sun!
+          I'll love thee as thou hadst been born this hour
+          That gives my brother life! O, speak the word,
+          And take me to thy heart--thy wife--thy slave--
+
+ Nin.     By earth and heaven, he shall die--and now!
+
+          (Raises his dagger to strike. Enter Vassin)
+
+ Vas.     (Excitedly) My lord, this is the strangest governor!
+          He ordered me with Sumbat to lead out
+          The city troops beyond the southern gate,
+          Then spurred to north! Sumbat obeyed, but I,
+          Not liking this, returned to you!
+
+ Nin.                                       'Tis Khosrove!
+
+ Vas.     (Staggered)
+          Then we are lost!
+
+ Nin.                       Pursue him! Fly! Call back
+          Our troops!
+
+ Vas.                 Too late! By now they're locked without
+          The southern wall, and Khosrove rides to ope
+          The north to Husak!
+
+ Sem.     (Aside)             False! Down, slanderous thought
+          That darkens me not him! That face that looked
+          As Truth had chosen it to show her own
+          To man! That voice--each word the enchanted door
+          To holier worlds unspoken! No. I'll trust!
+
+          (Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.     O, great Assyria, the Armenians come!
+          The Gazim traitor's sold thee unto Husak!
+          Thy foes are pouring through the northern gate
+          And bear down on the palace! Sumbat holds
+          Thy troops upon the southern plain And bars
+          All passage! There's no help!
+
+          (Ninus listens speechless)
+
+ Attendants. (Running in)               O, we are lost!
+
+ Off.     The city will be sacked! The palace guards
+          Are but a handful!
+
+ Sem.                         False? O, Khosrove! False?
+          Then there is no man true? E'en Sumbat lost
+          To thy sweet promises! False! false!
+
+          (Enter a second officer)
+
+ Off.     (Prostrating himself)                 Oh Ninus!
+          Call on thy gods! Thy enemies are at thee!
+          The palace is enclosed, and every foe
+          Bears in his hand a torch that blazes death
+          To all within!
+
+          (The inmates of the palace are running to and fro, rear,
+          and looking fearfully out into the court below)
+
+ Sem.                     O beauteous gods, is this
+          Your earth? Where Falsehood steals your garments, nay
+          Your smile, seduces with your voice, and stamps
+          Your semblance upon fiends?
+
+ Voices.                              Save us, O king!
+
+          (Ninus stands immovable, as if made deaf and dumb by
+          impending disaster)
+
+ Voice.   We burn! They cast the brands!
+
+ Another.                                 Not yet! They wait!
+
+ Voices of prostrate figures.             Save us, O king!
+
+ Voice.   See! see! The leader speaks!
+
+ Another.                               His herald! Hear!
+
+          (A trumpet sounds below)
+
+ Voice of Khosrove's herald.            Assyria, come forth!
+
+          (All within listen, silent, eager, fearful)
+
+          Hear thou, O Ninus! Hear the word of Khosrove!
+          He will depart with the Armenian troops,
+          And leave the city free of sword and fire,
+          If thou'lt decree that Artavan shall live
+          Free and unharmed!
+
+          (The face of Semiramis illumines with joy)
+
+                              Deny and Nineveh
+          Shall flame!
+
+ Nin.     My herald there! Stand forth!
+
+          (The herald of Ninus takes station centre rear)
+
+                                        Decree
+          As Khosrove wills!
+
+ Her. of Khos.                Appear, O Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                                           No!
+
+ Her. of Khos.
+          Appear, O Ninus!
+
+          (Ninus goes slowly to rear and stands by his herald)
+
+ Her. of Khos.              Hear, all Nineveh!
+          Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god!
+          That Artavan, the brother of the queen,
+          Shall freely live, and die by no man's hand!
+
+ Her. of Ninus. (Blows trumpet, then speaks)
+
+          Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god,
+          That Artavan, the brother of the queen,
+          Shall freely live, and die by no man's hand!
+
+          (Silence. The voice of Khosrove below)
+
+ Khos.    Assyria, speak!
+
+ Nin.                     I, Ninus, so decree!
+
+          (Staggers back toward front as all press to rear to see
+          the troops go out. Semiramis, Artavan and Sola stand
+          together gazing out)
+
+ Sem.     O, Khosrove! See--he rides--away--away!
+
+          (Leans forward waving her scarf. Ninus, alone in front,
+          goes toward his chamber, falls on the steps overpowered
+          with rage and lifts his clenched hands)
+
+ Nin.     O, vengeance! Vengeance for a king!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene: The gardens over the lake. A wide bridge extends from the
+bank of the lake, left, to the gardens which are partly visible on
+the right. At the rear, right, is a garlanded archway. At the
+left, front, steps lead from the bridge to the bank and top of the
+bridge. Beyond the bridge, rear, clouds show that the sun is
+setting.
+
+A score of spearmen, with lances down, march in right, front, and
+out through archway, right, rear.
+
+Enter, right, front, the king and Sumbat. The king is royally clad
+and crowned; Sumbat in official robe.
+
+ Sumbat.  Khosrove delays.
+
+ Nin.                       But do not doubt he'll come.
+          I have his word, and couriers have seen
+          His horsemen on the plain.
+
+ Sum.                                 How noble, sir,
+          To close the Feast of Peace with supreme revel
+          In honor of your foe!
+
+ Nin.                           Not foe, good Sumbat.
+          We have no foes. Our queen's triumphant arms
+          Have made glad subjects of all enemies
+          But one, and him we make our friend. To-night
+          Assyria and Armenia sup as one!
+
+          (Turns toward right, rear)
+
+          We'll see if all's prepared as we gave order.
+
+          (Exeunt under the arch of garlands. Dancers enter, right,
+          front, and pass out through arch. Following them, Semiramis
+          with her women. All are in rich attire but the queen who
+          wears simple white robe. A dove nestles on her bosom. She
+          gives the women leave to pass on and they go out merrily
+          through arch, right, rear. Semiramis lingers; comes to the
+          railing of the bridge, centre, and leans upon it)
+
+ Sem.     Will Khosrove come? I do not doubt the king,--
+          And yet--I pray he will not come!
+
+          (Re-enter Sumbat, through arch. He comes out to the queen)
+
+ Sem.                                       You, Sumbat?
+          Where is the king?
+
+ Sum.                         I left him in the garden,
+          Giving new orders for Prince Khosrove's honor.
+
+ Sem.     Sumbat, you trust the king?
+
+ Sum.                                 I do. You've wrought
+          Such noble change in him that drop by drop
+          He's mated all his blood unto your virtues.
+
+ Sem.     I must believe it, lest a doubt should breed
+          The weakness it suspects. But is 't not strange
+          Khosrove should trust him too?
+
+ Sum.                                     He knows that you
+          Would warn him if there lay a danger here.
+
+ Sem.     I warn him? But suppose the warning false?
+          'T would wrong the king, whose purpose seems so pure
+          It might have journeyed with his soul when first
+          It came from Heaven! No. I'll answer for him!
+          He could not counterfeit so deep my eyes
+          Would find no bottom to deceit!... But now
+          What hast thou heard of Artavan?
+
+ Sum.                                       No word.
+
+ Sem.     I fear--
+
+ Sum.               He's safe. Be sure of that. No man
+          Would dare lay finger on him!
+
+ Sem.                                   But to go
+          Without a word! Poor Sola grieves, and weeps
+          As though she'd drown her wits in tears.
+
+          (A boat glides from under the bridge and over the water
+          beneath them)
+
+                                                    See there!
+          'Tis she! Alone below!
+
+          (Sola alights from boat and runs up steps to the bridge)
+
+                                  I'll speak to her.
+
+          Go, Sumbat! (Sumbat goes off right)
+
+                      Sister, stay.
+
+          (Stops Sola as she is passing)
+
+                                    Why do you run?
+
+ Sol.     I'm running from the king!
+
+ Sem.                                 The king, my love?
+          There's no king here.
+
+ Sol.                           Nay, he's below!
+
+ Sem.                                             Below?
+
+ Sol.     Under the bridge with Vassin!
+
+ Sem.                                   Vassin? No.
+          The king has sent him out of Nineveh!
+
+ Sol.     He did not go. I swear that he's below!
+
+ Sem.     What were you doing 'neath the bridge?
+
+ Sol.                                             Ah me,
+          I seek in every place for Artavan.
+          I'll save him from the king!
+
+ Sem.                                   So kind a king?
+
+ Sol.     O, kind! As death, or plague, or leprosy!
+          'Tis he has taken revenge on Artavan!
+          He'll kill the prince, too, when he comes!
+
+ Sem.                                                 My child--
+
+ Sol.     (Pointing down)
+          I heard them talking there!
+
+ Sem.                                 Thy husband's safe.
+          Bethink thee that the king's decree protects him.
+
+ Sol.     Not from the king! From man, not from the gods,
+          And Ninus is a god, or dreams he is!
+
+ Sem.     From man--not from--no, no! I will not say
+          Or think it! My poor child--
+
+ Sol.                                   You'll save the prince?
+          'Tis you he trusts, not Ninus!
+
+ Sem.                                     Sweet, be calm.
+          You did not see the king.
+
+ Sol.                               Hear all, and save him!
+          When Khosrove takes the seat of highest honor,
+          Lord of the Revels by Assyria's favor,
+          The floor will part, the chair fall to the lake,
+          Where Vassin waits to slay him, while the king
+          Strikes down in wrath the master of the feast
+          For fault of accident!
+
+ Sem.                             Where are your wits?
+          See, yonder comes the king!
+
+          (Re-enter Ninus through archway)
+
+ Sem.     (As he approaches)          Is all prepared,
+          My lord?
+
+ Sol.     (To Semiramis)
+                    'Tis true--true--true!
+
+          (Runs off, right)
+
+ Nin.                                       Ay, all is ready
+          Except the queen. What means these simple robes,
+          Semiramis?
+
+ Sem.                 A compliment unto
+          Your majesty.
+
+ Nin.                   It shows more like affront!
+          I would have Khosrove see a splendor here
+          Unpainted in the daring of his dream,
+          And thou the star of it! A merchant's daughter
+          Would robe her handmaid with more care--lend her
+          A pearl or two--a bit of scarf--or scrap
+          Of tinsel sun--
+
+ Sem.                     My lord--
+
+ Nin.                               A compliment!
+          'Tis your disdain--
+
+ Sem.                         It grieves me, sir, that you
+          Should read in outward sign what never yet
+          Was in my soul. Our wars are done, my lord;
+          And exultation of the conquering hour
+          Calms into peace; as I laid armor by
+          For victor robes and symbol of my glory,
+          I now cast off the purple of the queen,
+          And but remember that I am a wife.
+
+ Nin.     (Embracing her)
+          Beloved Semiramis! Forgive thy slave!
+          No royal dye could shine so to my eyes
+          As this soft white put on for me alone!
+          Thy pardon, love, and thou shalt shortly learn
+          A king, too, knows how best to compliment!
+          An honor waits for thee--
+
+          (Enter officer, left)
+
+ Off.                               O king!
+
+ Nin.                                       We hear!
+
+ Off.     The Armenian approaches.
+
+ Nin.                               Khosrove comes?
+
+          (Semiramis watches the king closely)
+
+ Off.     He comes, great Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                             Well, and more than well!
+          Summon our train. (Exit officer, right) But one is lacking here,
+          Our brother--Artavan.
+
+ Sem.                           My lord--you think--
+
+ Nin.     Who would dare harm him? He is safe.
+
+ Sem.     (Coming very near him) From man,
+          Not from the gods.
+
+ Nin.     (Stepping back)     What do you mean?
+
+ Sem.                                           The truth!
+
+ Nin.     (Seizing her arm)
+          It is not so! I do deny it!
+
+ Sem.     (Calmly)                    What,
+          My lord?
+
+ Nin.               What meant you when you said 'the truth'!
+
+ Sem.     That gods may work some harm to Artavan.
+
+ Nin.     (At ease) True, love! Uncertain is their favor. Look!
+          He comes! (Gazing off left)
+
+ Sem.     (Aside)   He's false! And if he's false in this--then is--
+          O, Khosrove, thou art lured to death! And I
+          Have been thy traitorous star!
+
+          (Enter Khosrove, left, attended by Armenians)
+
+ Nin.                                     Hail, Khosrove! Hail!
+
+ Assyrians.
+          Hail to Armenia! Hail!
+
+ Khos.                            O, Ninus, hail!
+
+ Armenians.
+          Hail to Assyria, greatest over kings!
+
+ Nin.     Thou'rt welcome, and we thank thee for thy trust,
+          Which we'll betray when Heaven has no god
+          To damn our treachery! In proof of faith,
+          Wear thou the royal dagger with thy own.
+
+          (Detaches his weapon, which he gives to Khosrove)
+
+          Our queen--has she no word?
+
+          (Khosrove bows low before Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.                                 Peace and long life
+          To Khosrove.
+
+ Nin.                   Now to revel! Sound the trumpets!
+
+          (Exeunt officers through archway. Trumpets sound from the
+          gardens. Dancing maidens in white robes, each with a dove
+          resting on her hand, enter right front, reach the centre
+          of the stage, and begin the dance of doves. As the maidens
+          describe circles in the dance the doves rise and fly in
+          similar circles above their heads, and re-alight on their
+          extended hands)
+
+ Sem.     (Who has stood aside during the dance, apparently disturbed)
+          It is not true! Were any man so vile
+          Nature would spurn him back to chaos ere
+          His mother had beheld him!
+
+          (The dance ends. The maidens pass out under arch. All move
+          to follow when Ninus speaks)
+
+ Nin.                                 Stay! Hear, all!
+          Before we feast in honor of our guest,
+          We would do honor to our noble queen,
+          Whose arms of might have brought our land to peace.
+          Whose looks of love have brought our heart to rest!
+          To-night we doff our crown that she may wear it!
+
+          (Removing crown)
+
+          And here decree her word shall be obeyed
+          Above our own.
+
+          (Puts crown on the queen's head)
+
+                          Dost like our compliment?
+
+ Sem.     It is too much, my king.
+
+ Nin.     (Kneeling)                Nay, nay, thy subject!
+
+          (Semiramis seems gay with a sudden resolve)
+
+ Sem.     If it so please thee then I'll be the king!
+
+ Nin.     (Rising) We have decreed. If any here refuse
+          To honor thy command, though thou shouldst doom
+          My death, himself that instant dies. (To officer)
+                                                You, sir,
+          Take order for it, and if your own hand fail,
+          When we are king again we'll have your head!
+
+ Off.     My arm be as your will, my lord!
+
+ Sem.                                       O, then
+          I have a wish I did not dare to voice.
+
+ Nin.     Command it now.
+
+ Sem.                     It hath much troubled me
+          That Khosrove should be honored over you,
+          Lord of the Revels.
+
+ Khos.    (Astonished)        Lady--
+
+ Sem.                                 King, if 't please you!
+          I've laid my purple by, but I have still
+          The royal color in my heart. Think'st thou
+          To sit above Assyria, who wearest not
+          The brave investment of the gods? who hold'st
+          Thy sceptre still from warrior chiefs, not from
+          Anointed kings?
+
+ Khos.                    Because my race is proud!
+          Too proud to kneel to any earthly king
+          And take the sacred vestment from his hands!
+
+ Sem.     You see, my lord, that even in his heart
+          He ranks himself above you!
+
+ Nin.                                 But, my love--
+
+ Khos.    Farewell! Thou didst me service once, and here
+          I thought to thank thee, but--
+
+ Nin.                                     Stay, Khosrove, stay!
+
+ Khos.    Farewell, with all my heart!
+
+ Nin.                                   Nay--
+
+ Sem.                                         O, my lord.
+          Let him depart. He mocks our glory, and bears
+          A challenge in his proud simplicity
+          That puts our splendor to defense.
+
+ Khos.                                        Nay, madam!
+          I came to lay my duty at your feet,
+          And lift my eyes no higher than your hand
+          Without your royal leave! But now I'll cast
+          My gaze upon the stars, forgetting that
+          You walk beneath them! (Going)
+
+ Nin.                             Stay, O prince!
+
+          (To Semiramis)
+          A boon, your majesty! 'T would blot our honor
+          To send him from us thus! We shall be plunged
+          Anew in wars, for Husak will avenge it!
+          I am thy most unhappy subject, and
+          Thou'lt hear my prayer!
+
+          (Goes after Khosrove and leads him back)
+
+                                  You'll stay, O Khosrove?
+
+ Khos.                                                      Ay,
+          On one condition.
+
+ Nin.                       Name it!
+
+ Khos.                                That you will take
+          Our seat at feast.
+
+ Nin.                         Nay--
+
+ Sem.                               That is our command!
+
+ Nin.     No, no!
+
+ Sem.             We'll have it so!
+
+ Nin.                               I'll not consent!
+
+ Sem.     It is our royal order! Guards for Ninus!
+
+ Nin.     What do you mean?
+
+ Sem.                       To have our way! Guards here!
+          You shall not do this wrong to your high self!
+          We'll look unto your honor! (To guards) Bear him in!
+
+          (Guards stand in amazement)
+
+          Did ye not hear the king's decree? I reign!
+
+          (Guards take hold of Ninus)
+
+ Nin.     By Hut and Nim!
+
+ Sem.                     Place him in Khosrove's seat!
+
+          (Guards draw Ninus through the archway. Khosrove follows,
+          then all but Semiramis, who lingers fearfully, runs
+          toward front, then back and listens)
+
+ Sem.     'Tis true! What have I done? Ye gods! 'tis true!
+          He would not so rebel if 't were not true!
+          But Vassin is below! He'll know his king
+          And save him!
+
+          (Kneels)      Belus, mighty Belus, pardon!
+
+          (The sun has set, and red clouds show almost black over
+          water, rear. The front of stage is nearly dark. Lights
+          glimmer from the gardens, and a faint torch shows in the
+          darkness under the bridge. Shouts and shrieks come from
+          within. People rush out)
+
+ Voices.  The king! the king!
+
+ Sem.     (Retreating to railing, front)
+                              'Tis done!
+
+ Officer. (Running across)                The king has fallen
+          Into the lake! Lights there! below!
+          (Runs down steps leading under the bridge)
+
+ Other officers following.                    Lights! lights!
+
+          (Torches flare under the bridge. Darkness above as the
+          last light fades from the sky. A moment of noise and
+          search, and officers appear on the bridge, right, rear,
+          with Vassin. A guard bears torch which throws light on his
+          face)
+
+ Sem.     (Confronting him)
+          You've saved the king!
+
+ Vas.                             I have. For I have slain
+          His foe!
+
+ Sem.               His foe? No--you have killed the king!
+
+          (Falls back into the arms of her women. Complete darkness
+          on stage. An instant later moonlight. Khosrove and
+          Semiramis alone on the bridge, centre, front)
+
+ Khos.    (Bowing ceremoniously)
+          Farewell, Assyria!
+
+ Sem.                         O, not that name!
+          Not yet--not yet.
+
+ Khos.                      Does it not please your pride?
+
+ Sem.     My pride? 'Tis gone. Now I could lay my head
+          Upon the dust.
+
+ Khos.                    In truth! But you'll not do it!
+          Humility's a word the great think sweet
+          Upon the tongue, but near the heart they find
+          It loseth flavor!
+
+ Sem.                       Ah ... you do not know?
+          You think the words I spoke were born of pride?
+          So far from that--no, no--I will not tell,
+          And yet you wrong me, prince.
+
+ Khos.                        (Eagerly) Did you suspect
+          Some danger to me here, and seek to force
+          My angry leave? You did not care so much?
+
+ Sem.     I cared so much that rather than betray you
+          I would have let you go believing me
+          A woman worth your scorn. Ah, there my pride
+          In truth did suffer!
+
+ Khos.                          O, Semiramis!
+          Thou art the same as when I saw thee last?
+          As when I rode away and left thy face--
+          The only face in Nineveh--nay--I--
+          Will go. Farewell, most noble queen!
+
+ Sem.                                           Farewell!
+
+          (He lingers)
+
+ Sem.     Why go in haste?
+
+ Khos.                      I left my father sick.
+          He will be troubled till I come again.
+
+ Sem.     How dared you trust--
+
+ Khos.                          What would I not have dared
+          To look on thee again?... My horsemen wait....
+
+          (Waving toward left)
+
+          I come!
+
+ Sem.             Farewell!... Armenia is my friend?
+          I'm sad.... The manner of this death.... It weighs
+          Upon me.
+
+ Khos.              Let it not. Thou'rt innocent
+
+ Sem.     O, some may doubt!
+
+ Khos.                        But who wrongs Virtue puts
+          A crown upon her! If thou hadst foreknown
+          The accident--
+
+ Sem.                     The accident?
+
+ Khos.                                  'Twas not
+          Designed?
+
+ Sem.               It was ... for you.
+
+ Khos.                                  By Ninus?
+
+ Sem.                                             Ay.
+          You were to die.
+
+ Khos.                      Then you--you knew--that he--
+
+          (Starts from her in horror)
+
+ Sem.     What's in thy mind? What thought doth paint thy face
+          In dreadful silence? Oh! you think that I--
+
+          (Looks at him with equal horror. Removes farther from him,
+          regains composure, and speaks with haughty coldness)
+
+          This serves me well! Right well, Armenian!
+          Yes--yes--I knew--I knew the king would fall.
+          But knew, too, sir, that Vassin was below,
+          And, by my precious gods, I did not dream
+          He would not save his king! While you--my guest--
+          You would have gone to death!
+
+ Khos.                                  Forgive me!
+
+          (Semiramis walks farther, not heeding him)
+
+                                                    Oh,
+          I found a stream that ran from heavenly springs
+          And in it cast the soot of hell!
+
+ Sem.                                       Well served--
+          Well served, Semiramis!... I was so sad ...
+          And would not be content to let him go ...
+          I wanted but a word ... a word to cheer me ...
+          And now I have it--murderess!
+
+ Khos.    (Who has advanced to her)     No, no,
+          I did not say it!
+
+ Sem.                       The tongue may well keep silent
+          When eyes speak lightning. I have heard too much!
+          'T were better I had let you die!
+
+ Khos.                                      Ay, better ...
+          Better than this!
+
+ Sem.                       Now, now I am Assyria!
+          No more a woman! Softness to the winds!
+          And let my heart be as my armor--steel!
+
+ Khos.    Thou canst not make it so by saying it.
+          There is no cold or heat may temper hearts
+          Away from their true nature. Mail thyself
+          From head to foot, thou'rt still Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     A queen!
+
+          (An officer enters, left)
+
+ Off.               Your majesty, an urgent hand
+          Brings this report.
+
+          (Gives paper to her, which she reads)
+
+ Sem.                         The Ghecs are in revolt!
+          Thank them for me! They could not show me favor
+          More to my heart!
+
+          (Exit officer, left)
+
+                            I'm sick of peace--this peace
+          That gives men time to brood and breed foul thoughts
+          And fouler deeds! Give me the open war whose blows
+          Rain down as free as moonbeams from the sun!
+          Who meets me there I know, at least, he's brave,
+          And there--
+
+ Khos.                Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     (Proudly)               Armenia, speak!
+          You have our leave.
+
+ Khos.                        These Ghecs--my father is
+          Their ancient, sworn ally!
+
+ Sem.                                 Well, sir?
+
+ Khos.                                            His oath
+          Binds him to give them aid.
+
+ Sem.                                 The braver then
+          The battle!
+
+ Khos.    I am my father's son!
+
+ Sem.                           You mean
+          We'll meet upon the field!
+
+ Khos.                                I can not take
+          The field against you!
+
+ Sem.                             No? Why not?
+
+ Khos.                                          You know!
+          Because I love you!
+
+ Sem.                         Sir, I am Assyria!
+
+ Khos.    Nay, but Menones' daughter! She whose heart
+          I touched--
+
+ Sem.                 You touched?
+
+ Khos.                              Ere taint of pride or power
+          Or mad ambition had laid a canker there!
+          When she was maiden still, and knew no thought
+          She might not whisper in her father's ear!
+          Gentle as Spring when hushing the young dove,
+          But strong from virgin battle, with the flush
+          Of valorous purpose pure as goddess' dream
+          Starting the noble war-blood in her cheek!
+          'Tis she I speak to now--she that I love--
+          Not the proud queen grown bold in blood and triumph!
+          Love me, Semiramis! You shall have peace!
+          Not this sick peace that turns your heart to hate,
+          But peace that charms the beauty back to life
+          And new dreams to the soul! O, no more war!
+          Then lilies springing in thy steps shall say
+          What fairer grace went by! These fingers shall
+          Forget the sword whose music is men's groans,
+          And on sweet strings draw out the heart of love
+          To give the world the key of melody!
+          Ah, you shall war no more--
+
+ Sem.                                 Sir, you forget!
+          These Ghecs--
+
+ Khos.                  Will not revolt if I become
+          Assyria's head! They trust me as their--
+
+ Sem.                                               You!
+          Assyria's head! You! you! O, now I see!
+          I'm not yet blind, although my heart was fast
+          Upstealing to my eyes to make me so!
+
+ Khos.    O clear thy sight a second time, my queen,
+          And read me true!
+
+ Sem.                       And you had almost moved me!
+
+ Khos.    Melt, stony eyes--
+
+ Sem.                         The magic's left the earth
+          That had the power to soften them!
+
+ Khos.                                        Not so--
+
+ Sem.     You'd keep me still the general's humble daughter
+          While you would wear the glory I have won!
+
+ Khos.    Nay, by Mylitta's fire!--
+
+ Sem.                               We'd war no more.
+          For who has all may well hang by the sword!
+
+ Khos.    By Heaven, I--
+
+ Sem.                     O, you are man as _he_ was!
+
+          (Looks toward the garden shuddering)
+
+          I'll trust no more! Who's worthy trust will give it!
+          So saidst thou once! But thou couldst doubt--so dark
+          A doubt my soul--
+
+ Khos.                      Nay, that's not my offense!
+          You are a woman, and you must forgive!
+          But you are queen, too, and the queen in you
+          Guards her ambition from my honest love
+          Lest it divide her glory!
+
+ Sem.                               True, she guards it!
+          Out of Assyrian stone I'll make a heart
+          And wear it in my bosom!
+
+ Khos.                              Do not say it!
+          I did not mean the words! They are not so!
+          Thou dost not know thyself! Hard are the lips
+          That never know a kiss, and thine were made
+          With softness of the rose! Though all the streams
+          Of power on earth poured to thy sovereign sea,
+          Still wouldst thou want, and empty be the heart
+          One drop of love would fill!
+
+ Sem.                                   You speak
+          As to a woman!
+
+ Khos.                    Ay, for so thou art!
+          Be now thyself! Thy peace alone I plead!
+          I can bear all but thy unhappiness!
+          For love--true love--forgets itself and makes
+          But one prayer unto Heaven--prayer for the good
+          Of the beloved!
+
+ Sem.                     Thou wouldst not share my throne?
+
+ Khos.    Thy throne?
+
+ Sem.                 Ay, so I said.
+
+ Khos.                                I care not for it,
+          But since 'tis thine, I could not be a man
+          Worthy thyself and take a place beneath thee.
+          I'd be thy husband, and I know thou'rt not
+          A woman to look down and love!
+
+ Sem.                                     O theft
+          In argument! To make my monarch soul
+          Speak from thy mouth against me!
+
+ Khos.                                      Not against thee!
+          To beg thee yield to love is but to plead
+          Thy greater cause! Ah, days will come to thee
+          When all the maiden in thy heart will rise
+          And drown the queen's! Thou canst not call me back!
+          To-morrow is the battle! O, I lied
+          To say thou wert ambitious and ungentle--
+
+ Sem.     No, thou didst not! 'Tis true! I am--
+
+ Khos.                                          No, no!
+          I'll prove it is not so! See here--the dove--
+          That nestles at your breast! Why is it here?
+
+ Sem.     Because I was a woman once--and dreamed
+          On foolish, woman things! (Frees bird from her bosom)
+                                    Fly! fly!
+          And as I pluck thee out I pluck away
+          All thought of mortal love, and stand alone
+          Beneath Assyria's crown!
+
+ Khos.    (Gazes at her in despair) Then I'll be gone!
+
+ Sem.     You've pleaded well, but my domains are broad,
+          And might give tongue to wilder eloquence
+          Without love's sweet excuse!
+
+ Khos.                                  No more! I go!
+
+          (Moves off, left. Near exit, turns)
+
+          I lead my father's troops!
+
+ Sem.                                 I lead my own!
+
+          (Exit Khosrove. She looks after him without moving until
+          he passes out of sight. The moonlight is less bright. Her
+          dove flies over her head. She starts and looks after it.
+          The bird alights. She watches it eagerly and waits. It
+          circles about her, then darts to her bosom. With an
+          exultant moan she clasps it to her breast)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene: Within Husak's tent. Husak, Khosrove, Armenian lords and
+soldiers.
+
+ Husak.   Bring in the widow!
+
+          (Exeunt officers)
+
+                              Now, my son, thou'lt see
+          Assyria at thy feet. Ay, she who scorned
+          To match her crown with thine, shall low as earth
+          Cry up for favor!
+
+ Khos.                      Sir, I would not see it!
+
+ Hus.     Still in that humor? Well, I promise thee
+          She shall have mercy.
+
+ Khos.                          Mercy, father?
+
+ Hus.                                           Ay.
+
+ Khos.    What wilt thou grant?
+
+ Hus.                           Ask of thy heart,
+
+          (Khosrove is about to speak)            Peace, boy!
+          For once we'll be a father, not a soldier! Wait!
+
+          (Khosrove kneels and kisses his father's hand as Semiramis
+          enters between guards. She is robed and crowned, her arms
+          fettered with golden chains, and holds herself proudly,
+          not looking at Husak. She turns to Khosrove, who watches
+          her eagerly)
+
+ Sem.     We meet again. Wert thou upon the field?
+          I saw thee not. Perchance thy father thought
+          'T were wise to find his health and lead his troops
+          Lest _Love_ should blunt thy sword!
+
+ Hus.                                         By Bel, his sword
+          Was sharp enough to find the heart of Sumbat,--
+          Your general!
+
+ Sem.                   Sumbat slain! (Turns to Khosrove)
+                                      and slain by you!
+
+ Khos.    I had my choice--to slay him or to die.
+
+ Sem.     (With bitter scorn)
+          And did the love that makes one prayer to Heaven
+          Rule in that choice?
+
+ Hus.                           These taunts, Semiramis--
+
+ Khos.    Nay, father, she has cause to use me so.
+
+ Sem.     Oh, you confess you played with me! Then, heart,
+          In with thy scorn for this outbraves thy own!
+
+          (Turns away, folding her chained hands on her breast, and
+          stands as if she would speak no more)
+
+ Hus.     You make no suit for mercy?
+
+ Sem.     (Turning to him)            What! from thee?
+          Who kill your captives ere your tent is struck,
+          Nor spare a guard to drive them from the field?
+
+ Hus.     I grant what I would ask--death before serfdom!
+          You'd keep them for your dogs and slaves!
+
+ Sem.                                               And when
+          Am I to die? Why breach thy custom now?
+
+ Hus.     We like your spirit, but push not so far,
+          Or we shall break the bounds we've set ourselves.
+          Have you not found us gracious to your rank?
+          You look not like a prisoner!
+
+ Sem.                                   No thanks
+          For that! This robe and crown, these chains of gold
+          Are compliments that Husak pays himself,
+          Proclaiming him a royal victory,
+          Though not a royal victor!
+
+ Hus.                                 What! Dar'st fling
+          Into my face that the Armenian kings
+          Rule unanointed? Dost think that I would sue
+          To Nineveh or Babylon for leave
+          To take my kingly emblems from their hands?
+          But thou--thou shalt owe thine to me! I wear
+          No proud insignia of the gods, and yet
+          My hands shall strip and clothe thee as I will!
+
+          (Tears off her robe and crown)
+
+ Khos.    Father!
+
+ Hus.             By sun and moon--
+
+ Khos.                              O, sir--
+
+ Hus.                                         Her pride
+          Insults my mercy, but I'll keep my word.
+          Take these. (Gives him the robe and crown)
+                      Now, woman, learn that Husak--ay,
+          Husak, the Fierce, can pity fallen glory!
+          Stand forth, my son! Look, captive, on this prince!
+          A man not made to sue to less than gods!
+          Make him thy husband-king, and from his hands
+          Receive thy purple and remount thy throne!
+
+          (All are astonished. Khosrove shrinks back in shame, which
+          Semiramis misunderstands)
+
+ Sem.     Methinks this lover makes no ardent suit,
+          King Husak! Why, the sun has not twice set
+          Since he did swear me dearer than my crown,
+          And now the crown's too much if my poor self
+          Must burden it!
+
+          (Khosrove kneels before her, holding up the crown)
+
+ Hus.                     Rise, sir! You give, not sue!
+
+          (Semiramis looks down on Khosrove, then turns to Husak)
+
+ Sem.                                         Thank, thanks,
+          Old man, for making me once more myself!
+          For by the blood that storms through all my veins
+          I know I'm still a queen! Now all the pride
+          That lives in my lost crown, and all the scorn
+          Should meet thy fawning suit, be in my words,--
+          I do refuse your son! Assyria
+          Shall owe her throne to none!
+
+          (Khosrove springs up, trampling the robe)
+
+ Hus.                                   Now thou wilt rise!
+          A prince who might have gone with gods to wive
+          Nor bated them in choice! This to my face!
+          I, Husak, fawn on woman! Out with her!
+          Drag her to death! To instant death! Out! out!
+
+          (Guards approach Semiramis)
+
+ Khos.    To _instant_ death?
+
+ Hus.     (Looks searchingly at him.) Ha! ha! Not yet! She's thine!
+          Choose thy revenge! Have now thy will!
+
+ Khos.                                            Thou'lt grant it?
+
+ Hus.     Ay, ay, whate'er thou wouldst!
+
+ Khos.                                    She is thy captive.
+
+ Hus.     I make her thine! My conqueror's right I yield
+          To thee!
+
+ Khos.              Dost swear it?
+
+ Hus.                               Doubt me not! I swear!
+
+ Khos.    By Belus' star?
+
+ Hus.                     By Belus' star, whose beams
+          Are death to breakers of an oath! We ask
+          This crown--no more. (Takes crown from Khosrove's hand)
+                                You pause. Stand not, my son.
+          Thy vengeance waits. Do what thou wilt with her,
+          We'll question not.
+
+          (Khosrove strikes off the chains of Semiramis)
+
+ Khos.                        Go free to Nineveh.
+
+          (Husak stands in amazed silence, then understands and burns
+          with speechless anger. At last he speaks slowly with intense
+          wrath)
+
+ Hus.     All madmen in my kingdom die! Bind him!
+
+          (Guards bind Khosrove)
+
+ Sem.     Die? No! O, sir, you would not slay your son?
+
+ Hus.     This loathsome thing is not my flesh!
+
+ Sem.                                           Thy son!
+
+ Hus.     We have no son. Armenia has no heir.
+          Bear him away!
+
+ Sem.     (Holding out her hands) My chains! Dost think I'll owe
+          My life to him? Thou know'st not yet my pride!
+          Bind me and set him free!
+
+ Hus.     (Thunderingly)            No! Husak breaks
+          No oath! We're not a god as Nineveh,
+          And bold to mock at Heaven!
+
+ Khos.    (To Semiramis)              I knew the price,
+          And chose to pay it. 'Tis my wish. Farewell!
+
+          (Guards bear him out)
+
+ Hus.     (To Semiramis) Go free to Nineveh!
+
+ Sem.                                         No! O, kill me!
+
+ Hus.     Nay, go! But go alone--on foot--and through
+          A hostile country!
+
+ Sem.                         Ah!
+
+ Hus.                             That subject who
+          Shall give thee food or drink dies in the act!
+          Proclaim it, all!... Come, friends, we've not yet held
+          The feast of victory. The slighted gods
+          Will snatch away their favor if we long
+          Delay our revels. Though we'll miss one face,
+
+          (Suppresses a groan)
+
+          We'll know this much--there'll be no traitor there!
+
+          (All leave the tent but Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.     Alone ... on foot ... and through a hostile country!
+          I'll overtake thee, Khosrove, ere thou 'st reached
+          Thy throne among the stars! Thou goest from love,
+          And wilt look back and weep from every cloud;
+          I on thy track shall pause not till our wings
+          Stir the same air and lock in kisses flying!
+          ... So pay my scorn? How then hadst loved if heart
+          Had brought to heart its swelling measure? Then
+          Our rosy hours had been the pick of time,
+          And hung a flower 'mong withered centuries
+          When every age had brought its reckoning in!
+          O, why will we, some cubits high, pluck at
+          The sun and moon, when we have that within
+          Makes us the soul and centre of Heaven itself?
+          Ambition, thou hast played away my crown
+          And life. That I forgive thee, but not this--
+          Thou 'st robbed me of the memory of his kiss.
+          ... Go, world! The conqueror's trump that closed my ears
+          Unto the angel in a lover's voice
+          Dies to a moan that fills but one lone heart.
+          And soon 'tis silent. Ah, though woman build
+          Her house of glory to the kissing skies,
+          And the proud sun her golden rafters lay,
+          And on her turrets pause discoursing gods,
+          Let her not dare forget the stanchion truth--
+          Immortal writ in every mortal face--
+          "Thou art the wife and mother of the world!"
+
+          (Sees Khosrove's cloak upon the floor, and kneels by it,
+          taking it in her hands)
+
+          My Khosrove!... Methought a god struck off my chains
+          So strong and fair he seemed, yet strove to hide
+          The beauty of his act, as might a star
+          Shrink in its own sweet light!
+
+          (Buries her face in the folds of the cloak)
+
+                                          O, noble prince,
+          I might have kissed thy lips and not thy garment!
+
+          (Rises and wraps the cloak about her. Spurns with her foot
+          her own robe which has been left trampled)
+
+          Thou purple rag, lie there! Love's vesture shall
+          Enfold me as I go!
+
+          (Starts out)        Alone ... on foot ...
+          But I've not far to journey. Foes are kind....
+          The first one met ... well, I will thank him!... Cries?
+          It is the feast. A man may feast who had--
+          But has no son!... (Startled) 'Tis not the feast!... I know
+          That noise confused--hoarse shouts--shrieks--pawing steeds--
+          And rumbling chariots! Those are the tones
+          Of battle! O, the bloody work! 'Tis war!
+          Did it delight me once?... Assyrian cries!
+          My troops! my troops! They've rallied! How they cheer!
+          What brave heart leads them on?
+
+          (Cries come nearer)
+
+                                          Poor creatures, they
+          Would save me knowing not I died with Khosrove.
+          I will not live--
+
+          (The rear of the tent is torn away by an onslaught.
+          Assyrian troops enter, led by Artavan)
+
+ Art.                       Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.                                   My brother!
+          You live!
+
+ Art.               And you!
+
+ Sem.                         Praise Heaven there is one
+          Will comfort my sad kingdom!
+
+ Art.                                   Nay, all's well!
+          The death of Ninus freed me from my prison;
+          I gathered troops and pushed hard after you,
+          To hear you had been taken; then I planned
+          This rescue. Thank great Belus, I'm in time!
+
+ Sem.     In time? Nay, thou'rt too late!
+
+ Art.                                     Too late? When thou
+          Dost live?
+
+ Sem.                 I live? No! Thou'rt deceived!
+
+ Art.                                               O Heaven!
+          ... She's dazed! Her troubles have bewildered her.
+          All's well, my sister! Husak has been taken.
+          Thy crown itself is in our hands ... The crown!
+
+          (A soldier hands it to him)
+
+          You see 'tis safe. (She takes it idly)
+
+ Sem.                         A crown. For such a thing
+          Wouldst give thy Sola?
+
+ Art.                             She is dear to me,
+          But ay, by Heaven, I would!
+
+ Sem.                                 You would? I know
+          A greater thing than this.
+
+ Art.                                 What, sister?
+
+ Sem.     (Letting the crown fall)                  Love.
+
+ Art.     O, she is crazed! This is some evil work!
+          Bring in the captive Husak! He shall speak!
+
+ Sem.     O, brother, once I thought thy love was truest
+          That ever husband gave to wife, but now
+          It showeth dark against my lover's truth!
+
+ Art.     Semiramis ... sweet sister ... What dost mean?
+          ... I'll know the cause of this! Call in the prince
+          With Husak!
+
+ Sem.                 Prince?
+
+ Art.                         Ay ... Khosrove, whom we found
+          In chains--I know not why--and I unbound him,
+          Recalling how he saved my life,--but now
+          I'll know what thou hast suffered at his hands!
+
+ Sem.     You found him bound? I can not hear--or see!
+
+ Art.     She swoons--she dies--O, true, we are too late!
+
+ Sem.     No, brother, thou'rt in time! I live! I live!
+          I am Semiramis! Give me my crown!
+          Now this small circlet seems to me the world,
+          And it is mine--to wear--or give away!
+          Is 't not, good friends?
+
+ Voices.                            Ay, 'tis!
+
+          (Enter soldiers with Husak and Khosrove, Husak in fetters)
+
+ Sem.                                         King Husak, hear!
+          Assyria and Armenia should be friends,
+          Joining true hands to bring a happy peace
+          O'er all the East. And in that dearest hope
+          I free thee. (Unbinds him) But thy son, the prince, must be
+          Again my prisoner.
+
+ Hus.                         O, queen, I've spent
+          One childless hour, and rather would I die
+          Than know another. Take my life for his.
+
+ Art.     Dost thou forget, Semiramis, that once
+          He saved thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                           I remember all,
+          But will not change his doom. He must be bound,
+          Nor from my fetters may he go alive.
+          These are his chains--(Putting her arms about his neck)
+                                  his prison deathless love,
+          And here I pray that he will wear this crown,
+          And hold with me the great Assyrian throne!
+          ... (calls) My chariot!
+
+ Khos.                            My queen! my queen!
+
+ Sem.                                                 Wilt thou
+          Consent?
+
+ Khos.    (Kisses her lips) I answer here.
+
+          (The royal chariot appears, rear. They step in)
+
+ Sem.     (Giving the reins to Khosrove)    To Nineveh!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+CARLOTTA
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. Miramar.
+    SCENE 2. In the mountains of Mexico.
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Chapultapec.
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. Before the Imperial Theatre.
+    SCENE 2. Within the theatre.
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. Queretaro.
+
+
+  ACT V.
+
+    SCENE 1. The Tuileries.
+    SCENE 2. Miramar.
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  MAXIMILIAN, Emperor of Mexico
+  CARLOTTA, Empress of Mexico
+  LOUIS NAPOLEON, Emperor of France
+  EUGENIE, Empress of France
+  BENITO JUAREZ, President of Mexico
+  IGNACIO, nephew to Juarez
+  RAFAEL MENDORES, friend of Ignacio
+  ASEFFA, wife of Rafael
+  TREVINO, ESCOBEDO, GARZA, officers in the Liberal Army
+  MIRAMON, leader of the Imperial party
+  MARSHAL BAZAINE, head of the French Army in Mexico
+  MARQUEZ, MEJIA, MENDEZ, DUPIN, LOPEZ, of the Imperial army
+  ABBOT of Lacroma
+  ARCHBISHOP LABASTIDA, head of the Mexican church
+  PRINCE SALM-SALM, friend and officer of Maximilian
+  PRINCE ZICHY,
+  RUIZ, BERZABAL, ESTRADA, Mexican nobles
+  LADY MARIA, sister to Count Charles
+  PRINCESS SALM-SALM
+  PRINCESS ZICHY
+  PRINCESS METTERNICH
+  SENOR HURBET, GENERAL CASTLENAU, MARQUIS DE GALLIFET,
+    in the service of Louis Napoleon
+  AUSTRIAN, BELGIAN, PRUSSIAN,
+    and other foreign ministers at the court of Napoleon III.
+
+  Imperial soldiers, Liberal soldiers, guards, rabble,
+  ladies of honor, officers of the court, etc., etc.
+
+
+
+
+CARLOTTA
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene I: Reception hall, castle of Miramar, near Trieste. Enter
+Count Charles, book in hand.
+
+ Char.    Ah, books must be put by for swords, I wot,
+          When this wild journey to the West begins.
+          'Tis change enough! O shifting, shuffling life!
+          Come, Shakespeare, magic mason, build me worlds
+          That never shake however winds may blow,
+          Founded on dream imperishable! (Sits and reads.
+                                          Enter Lady Maria)
+
+ Mar.                                     Charles!
+          Not reading! Dost know what day it is?
+
+ Char.                                            Ay, sister!
+          A day to make a scholar tremble, and hug
+          His books in fever of farewell.
+
+ Mar.                                     Didst see
+          The splendid carriages glittering up the drive?
+          And O, so many!
+
+ Char.                    They have arrived?
+
+ Mar.                                         Arrived!
+          Why, all the Mexican deputies, arrayed
+          Like their own sunsets,--the ambassadors
+          From Austria, Belgium, France,--the princesses,
+          And countesses, now in the guest-room wait
+          The stroke of twelve to enter! 'Tis nearly time,
+          And you sit here! Put by your Englishman!
+          Come, put him by, I say! He's dead; we live.
+          He's had his due and passed.
+
+ Char.                                  Nay, his account
+          Is writ forever current. His book of praise
+          Time closes not, but waits some language new
+          To enter it, and at his monument
+          Fame yet stands carving.
+
+ Mar.     (Taking book and closing it) So! She's time enough!
+          We've other work. (Gently) Is not the princess sad?
+
+ Char.    I pray her heavy tears, weighing like stones,
+          Will hold her back from sea!
+
+ Mar.                                   Hush, Charles! She comes!
+
+          (Enter Carlotta, richly dressed)
+
+ Car.     Ah, cousins, trimming now your smiles to greet
+          The deputies?
+
+ Char.                  Nay, calling up our tears
+          To grace farewell to Miramar!
+
+ Car.                                   No tears!
+          We'll think but of an empire and a crown,
+          Not Miramar!
+
+          (Enter Maximilian, dressed in the uniform of Vice-Admiral
+          of the Austrian navy)
+
+ Max.                   An empire and a crown?
+          At last I am out-rivalled in your heart!
+
+ Car.     Nay, nay, thou know'st, my lord, thou art my empire!
+          Grant me so much as now I look upon
+          And I'm as rich as Jove with Saturn's sceptre
+          New-swinging o'er the world!
+
+ Char.                                  Then you risk much
+          For an unstable throne.
+
+ Car.                             Not risk!
+
+ Char.                                      The men
+          Who've governed Mexico, for the most part,
+          Have paid their heads for it.
+
+ Mar.                                   O, Charles!
+
+ Char.                                              'Tis true.
+
+ Car.     Our safety is in the Emperor of France.
+          He's the strong angel in this noble scheme!
+
+ Char.    Safety in him? Nay, madam, by my soul,
+          The lightest smile that breaks upon his lips,
+          As though a breeze but touched there, hides a plot
+          May hang our hearts with lead!
+
+ Car.                                     How you misjudge him!
+          In Paris when he pledged his faith to us
+          His eyes more than his words assured his heart
+          Unto our cause. I trust him, yea, I trust him!
+
+ Char.    There is a woman on the throne of France!
+          She is the Eve to this slow-blooded Adam,
+          Dutch-born Napoleon, and holdeth up
+          The globe as 't were an apple for his hand.
+          She builds mock images of dreams that died
+          On Helena's lone rock, and teaches him
+          They are not ghosts of dream but dream indeed!
+          Mexico, burning with gold and sunset's fire,
+          Pouring the crimson of internal strife,
+          To her is but a jewel in crude bed
+          She'd have you pick and polish for her crown!
+
+ Car.     Had you but heard her sweet devoted voice
+          Pleading with us for sake of the true Church
+          To finish now this great emprise begun,
+          You would believe her holy.
+
+ Char.                                If she is holy,
+          And if Napoleon be true in this,
+          Then is he God's perfection of a man,
+          And she earth's sole and sainted paragon!
+          But wait--O wait and see ere you risk life
+          And honor!
+
+ Car.     You're wrong--so wrong--but this is strange.
+          O why are we not happy? (Turning to window and gazing out)
+
+ Char.    (Following her)         Because, my cousin,
+          This is not Miramar as we have known it.
+          The scholar's home, the soldier's fair retreat,
+          The noble heart's sweet fane and altar spot,
+          But Miramar with great ambition's storm
+          Rolling its thunders 'gainst her peaceful walls!
+
+ Max.     But to live idly is never to be born.
+          Shall we sit here at ease when God has found
+          The work for us? He with his pontiff finger
+          Points to the sea--
+
+ Car.               (Turning) Sweet Miramar!
+          If God points to the sea, why gave he this?
+          This heaven-spot, this nesting place of love,
+          Hung like a garland 'tween the sea and rocks!
+          Ah, dear my lord, some curse will follow us
+          Who can desert this peace-embalméd place
+          To seek a glory fairer but in name!
+          I dare not do it!
+
+ Max.     (Taking her hands) 'Tis you shall say, my wife.
+          If to stay here's your wish, that wish is mine,
+          Maybe I've dreamed too much of deeds of good,
+          And visionary feats in that far land;
+          Then let it be your yea or nay, my love.
+
+ Car.     O leave it not to me, for in a yea
+          My vanity will speak, and in a nay
+          My fear!
+
+ Max.               A slander on these lips? A kiss
+          Were better! (Kisses her. Enter Marquis Corio)
+
+ Cor.                   The noble guests approach. Will 't please
+          Your Highnesses assume your places?
+
+ Max.                                         Yea,
+          Or nay, Carlotta?
+
+ Mar.                       O, they come! they come!
+
+ Char.    (Hastily and earnestly)
+          Nay, if you love your lord! That is a land
+          Of murder, treason, carnage and revolt!
+          The very air cries out 'go not! go not!'
+          E'en yon cloud-turbanned peak, that never moves
+          Whate'er the circling stars propound to vex
+          His silent wisdom, warns with forbidding nod!
+          O noblest cousin--
+
+ Car.         (In agitation)  An empire! Miramar!
+
+          (Maximilian takes place centre. A table in front of him
+          covered with maps and papers. Carlotta by him, Count
+          Charles and Lady Maria in their rear. Enter Archduke of
+          Austria, and nobles, who take position at some distance
+          from Maximilian on his right. Enter Belgian Minister,
+          Abbot of Lacroma, Princess of Metternich, Princess Zichy,
+          Countess Kollonitz, and others. They stand at distance to
+          left of Maximilian. Enter the Imperial delegate, Senor
+          Hurbet, and General Frassart, Napoleon's Adjutant of the
+          Field. The former takes place immediately at Maximilian's
+          right, the latter at left of Carlotta. Marquis Corio at
+          door. Enter the Mexican deputies, Estrada, Berzabal,
+          Negrete, Ruiz, and a dozen others. Estrada, as president
+          of the deputation, makes low salute)
+
+ Max.     Welcome, my lords, to Miramar!
+
+ Est.                                     Hail, Prince,
+          And fairest princess! The grace and hope of morning
+          Be ever on your lives!
+
+ Car.                             Must noble senors,
+          We give you thanks and greeting.
+
+ Max.                                       Your presence here,
+          My lords, would move our hearts although you brought
+          No crown to guerdon welcome.
+
+ Est.                                   O, gracious prince,
+          Our tongues but feebly bear the mighty love
+          The land of Montezuma bade us lay
+          Low at your feet. Your starry virtues draw
+          Her prayers and hopes and holiest desires
+          Across the sea in humblest supplication.
+          We make no weary tale of our misfortunes;
+          They are so great the world is heavy with them,
+          And Mexico means but calamity
+          To every ear.
+
+ Max.                   My dear and honored lords,
+          The heart is granite and the veins are ice
+          That will not stir at your deep miseries.
+
+ Est.     Ah, sir, this crown is heavy, but you will bear
+          The golden weight as 't were the aureole
+          That seals the saint to God!
+
+ Max.                                   But not without
+          Consent of every subject should I wear it.
+          Does Mexico send all her hearts with you?
+
+ Ruiz.    (Spreading paper on table)
+          Read here the proclamation now in force
+          In all our provinces.
+
+ Max.                           And this has been
+          By each assembly ratified?
+
+ Berzabal.                            Ay, prince!
+          It is a nation, not these dozen men,
+          That with a million voices prays to you!
+
+ Max.     From childhood up I've sought to obey my God,
+          But never dreamed that he would bless my life
+          With such high sanction as I read herein. (Lifting paper)
+          Forgive a tear, my lords.... But we must ask
+          That crownéd Europe give a sacred oath
+          To guarantee our empire's permanence.
+
+ Archduke.
+          Brother, I bring the word of Austria,
+          Whose prayers, whose arms, whose subjects' blood are yours,
+          While she has blood or arms to give!
+
+ Belgian Minister.                              For Belgium
+          I speak--the princess' true and royal father,
+          Whose little kingdom measures not his heart!
+
+ Senor Hurbet.
+          And I, my lord, have here the signéd oath
+          Of Mightiest France, whose fifty-thousand men
+          Now guard the cradle of the new born peace
+          In Mexico! Read here what he will do.
+
+ Max.     (Reads) Enough.... My lords, should I accept this crown,
+          'T would be with holiest expectation
+          To reign in love and peace, but your past struggles
+          Point to a term of danger and much risk
+          Ere our star shines above all factious spite.
+          Stood I alone I should not hesitate,
+          But here is one more dear than my own life,
+          Whom I must cherish more than my own life,
+          Within whose heart I must find out my answer;
+          And God be thanked her wisdom beams so true
+          Above the hesitations of my mind
+          That I can love her yea or nay as 't were
+          By Heaven spoke!
+
+ Est.                       Then to your mercy, princess,
+          We now commit our hope.
+
+ Car.                             Most worthy lords,
+          I am so proud that I would wear a crown,
+          So pitying I would weep my heart away
+          For your sad country, and so vain I think
+          The lord that married me might lead you from
+          Rebellion's night to civil-kissing hours;
+          But yet a woman bonded unto love,
+          Not my own mistress. The life bound up with mine
+          Is dearer than the peace of any state,
+          And looking deep into your country's heart
+          I read some cruel marks of history
+          That teach me fear for any precious thing
+          Consigned unto its love.
+
+ Est.                               If ever souls
+          Lay bare to human eyes, read now in ours
+          The loyalty which you will find in every subject!
+
+ Ruiz.    Be merciful! Earth aches through her rock-ribs
+          With our old woes, and it is you may heal them!
+
+ Ber.     Pity will teach thee soon to love our land!
+
+ Car.     My lords, already I love Mexico,
+          And would forego the peace of Miramar,--
+          All happy days that from the future lean
+          To meet my smiles, as trifles whose light thought
+          Shames this great hour; but when in dream I see
+          My lord beset by foes in foreign land,
+          The help he needs beyond a three-months' sea,
+          My princess pride flags to a peasant fear
+          For one dear life!
+
+ Est.                         Wrong not yourself, your lord,
+          And Mexico, O gentlest lady--
+
+ Car.                                   Nay--
+
+ Est.     Say yea, and our expectant land will feel
+          The thrill of that affirmative across
+          The glad Atlantic! Yea--and France, whose name
+          Is in our hearts as God's, will bless thy tongue!
+          Say yea, and noble England, watchful Spain,
+          Who with great France began the holy work
+          Of blessed liberation will applaud
+          With happy echoes to the guardian skies!
+          Say yea, and the white spirit of the Church
+          Will take 'neath her soft wings our blood-drenched land,
+          That waits but for that word to hail thy lord
+          Regenerator, king!
+
+ Car.                         My lords, my lords,
+          We are but human! Mayhap we will not keep
+          The love that we have won!
+
+ Senor Hur.                           Fear not, O princess!
+          Behind your throne, with unretreating sword,
+          Will stand the first great power of all the world!
+          Thus speak I for the emperor of France!
+
+ Princess Metternich. (Advancing)
+          I for the empress! Eugenie bade me speak
+          Her heart out here, and hail thee sister empress!
+          To ask when your young empire blooms above
+          The lily of old France, and lures the East
+          To pour her golden heart into your port,
+          And ocean blossoms with your argosies,
+          You'll still remember that she loved you when
+          You were but princess and no farther ruled
+          Then stretch the gardens of small Miramar!
+
+ Car.     O generous Eugenie! But the fear--
+
+ Abbot of Lacroma.
+          To speak of fear in this is to doubt God!
+          He does not bless in vain a noble prince
+          With such rare qualities as crown the mind
+          Of Maximilian! 'Tis for some purpose rare
+          He rounds such excellence with highest birth
+          And puts a sword of power in his hand!
+          From over seas unto your very feet
+          A nation comes to choose from all the world
+          One made by Heaven to be its sovereign lord,
+          Cool hearts of passion in his amity,
+          Make bitter eyes forget their ancient hate,
+          And proudest knees bow with old enemies
+          In worship of his star beneficent!
+          There pale and crushéd Peace
+          Shall take the color of the living rose,
+          Hearing the voice of his protecting love
+          That comes to lift her beauty from the dust
+          And on that ground volcanic nobly build
+          Her temple indestructible!
+          There shall his kingly mind find outward means
+          To write sublimity upon the world,
+          And like old Egypt speak in pyramids
+          To nations unbegot in dream of Time!
+          And can you shock the hour with hesitation?
+          Ask all the waiting world,--ay, even God,
+          To pause and count the heart-beats of a woman?
+
+ Car.     (Devoutly, with uplifted hands and eyes)
+          Forgive me, Heaven, that I doubted thee!
+
+          (Takes Maximilian's hands, turns with great dignity to the
+          deputies, and speaks solemnly)
+
+          Senors, we'll wear the crown of Mexico.
+
+          (Silence. The abbot of Lacroma advances; Carlotta and
+          Maximilian drop to their knees as he extends his arms
+          above them in blessing)
+
+
+Scene II: A camp in the mountains of Mexico. Night. Aseffa
+preparing food by a fire. She goes aside, listens, and returns.
+
+ Asef.    O Mexico, thou traitress unto love,
+          Wilt trample every heart that's true to thee?
+
+          (Listens. Enter Miguel and Lerdo, very ragged and gaunt)
+          Miguel! Lerdo! Rafael not come? Where did you leave him?
+
+ Lerdo.   Nowhere, Senora.
+
+ Asef.                      Oh!
+
+ Mig.     Don't flutter, little bird. We mean that he left us. He
+          set off as fresh as the morning to make the circuit of
+          another mountain while we could barely creep up to camp.
+
+ Asef.    You are hungry! I'll give you Rafael's supper!
+
+ Ler.     Hungry? No! I've had two biscuits since yesterday, and
+          sixty miles isn't far to go on that.
+
+ Mig.     And as much good air and water as a soldier need want!
+
+ Asef.    Here! Take it. 'Tis good. Indeed it is!
+
+ Mig.     Smoking meat! Ha! Who brought it? Has the Holy Virgin been
+          in camp?
+
+ Asef.    No, but I've been down to the valley.
+
+ Ler.     You?
+
+ Asef.    Yes,--and I've a little gold left, too!
+
+          (Showing purse)
+
+ Mig.     You paid five pesos for that dish!
+
+ Asef.    A good guesser would double the price.
+
+ Mig.     And for Rafael's supper! No, I can go two more days yet.
+          (Puts food aside)
+
+ Asef.    But you shall not. Come, eat! I'll feed you then, and you
+          don't want Juarez' soldiers to be turned into babies, do
+          you?
+
+ Mig.     I'll yield! In fact, there's an orator within that speaks
+          with a most convincing pinch. (They eat)
+
+ Asef.    (Watching) Poor fellows! They'll not leave him a mouthful!
+
+ Ler.     Where is the general?
+
+ Asef.    (Pointing up the hill) Asleep. Have you news?
+
+ Ler.     None to bring good dreams. Let him sleep.
+
+ Mig.     Lord, a meal a day like this and I could drive the whole
+          French army into the sea! (Rising) Now if these rags could
+          be turned back to their first fortunes, I'd be Don Miguel
+          de Tejada again! You wouldn't think that these tags and
+          tatters had waltzed with the president's niece at the
+          capital, would you now?
+
+ Asef.    You must let me mend your clothes as I do Rafael's.
+
+ Mig.     Faith, Senora, you would have to begin too many months
+          back. No, I'll hang out my banners as a knight of liberty
+          should, and be Don Miguel de Tejada still. Asleep, my
+          Lerdo? A good example, too. (Lies down) Good-night, Senora
+          the Blessed!
+
+ Asef.    Good-night, Don Miguel de Tejada! (The soldiers sleep. She
+          waits and listens. Runs aside and looks down the valley)
+
+ Asef.    Rafael! (Steps approach. Enter Rafael)
+
+ Raf.     (Embracing her) Here's Heaven for the weary!
+
+ Asef.    So tired? And I have nothing for you! (Looks toward
+          soldiers) They were so hungry.
+
+ Raf.     They're welcome to it. (Kissing her) Here is my
+          banquet,--my feast of beauty and my wine of love!
+
+          (Staggers to a rock and sits feebly)
+
+ Asef.    Oh! You've been so far!--too far!
+
+ Raf.     We rode all day, but made no terms for food. The people
+          are afraid. Whoever gives us bread forfeits his life and
+          home.
+
+ Asef.    I bought some meat of a poor woman to-day. She needed the
+          money.
+
+ Raf.     And if the Imperials find her out they'll murder her and
+          set her hut in flames!
+
+ Asef.    Oh! What shall we do?
+
+ Raf.     We are an army. We'll do as armies do. Take food where we
+          can find it.
+
+ Asef.    O, Rafael!
+
+ Raf.     Yes, love, we'll play the robber to fill the mouth of
+          Liberty,--she's fed too long on thistles.
+
+ Asef.    She's a stern mistress, Rafael.
+
+ Raf.                                     But sweeter, love,
+          Her harshest frown that summer smiles of kings!
+          O, I reproach her not, even when I see
+          My dearest friends lie dying in her name!
+          A bed of stones is soft enough for me
+          If she but rock to sleep,--a crust to-day,
+          To-morrow none, and at her board I'm fed.
+          But when I look on you, my traitor blood
+          Flies from her service. Oh, to see these hands
+          That plucked no beauty ruder than the rose,
+          So meanly laboring in the basest needs!
+          Your gentle body resting on cold earth,
+          Glad of a blanket 'tween you and the sod,
+          While in your bed the foreign robber sleeps!
+          This shakes my loyalty till I could hate
+          The fair, unspotted cause my sword is drawn in!
+
+ Asef.    Stop, Rafael! O thank God these hands have known
+          That blessed of all fortunes,--to toil for love!
+          These eyes that sought for but a face more fair,
+          A flower more sweet, have found the stars that rise
+          Where Truth and Courage wander in the night!
+          In southern vales maybe we'll hear again
+          The morning birds sing at our bowered windows,
+          But we will not forget the nobler song
+          Now borne by winds about these mountain peaks,--
+          The song of man made free!
+
+ Raf.                                 We'll not forget.
+          But will that sweet day come? Tell me, Aseffa,
+          You who are half a sibyl,--shall we go down
+          That valley to our home?
+
+ Asef.                              'Tis not to gain
+          Our father's halls, and sit 'neath fig and vine,
+          We hide and starve and stagger in these hills,
+          But to keep noble the last hour of life,
+          That Death who gathers it may read thereon
+          The seal immortal of approving God.
+
+ Raf.     Yes--dear Aseffa--but--(Faints)
+
+ Asef.                            Rafael! Rafael!
+          Ah dying! O my prating virtue's gone!
+          I care for naught but that my love shall live!
+          O, Liberty, wilt spare me this one life?
+          ... Ho! Miguel! Up!
+
+ Mig.                         Hey! What! Senora!... Ah!
+
+ Lerdo.   What's here?
+
+ Asef.                  There's wine in the general's tent! Rafael!
+          My love, my love, look up!... O Mexico,
+          With all thy veins of gold thou art not worth
+          One dear drop of his blood!
+
+          (Enter General Trevino)
+
+ Trev.                                What's this new grief?
+          Not Rafael!... He faints. 'Tis hunger ... hunger.
+          Miguel! Lerdo! Bear him to my tent.
+          Give him what food you find there. First the wine!
+
+          (Soldiers go out with Rafael. Aseffa follows. As she
+          passes the general she drops to her knees and kisses his
+          hands)
+
+ Trev.    (Alone) Starvation now or plunder. We'll quarter where
+          We can.... A horseman! If 'tis Ignacio
+          We shall have news.
+
+          (Enter Ignacio, from riding)
+
+ Ig.                          Who's here?
+
+ Trev.                                    Ignacio?
+
+ Ig.      (Saluting) Your pardon, sir!
+
+ Trev.                                  You're from the capital?
+
+ Ig.      Three days ago I left the city. I've slept
+          On horseback since.
+
+ Trev.                        Your news!
+
+ Ig.                                      We fight an empire.
+          The Austrian is crowned.
+
+ Trev.                              Impossible!
+          Where are our people? Salas? and LeVal?
+
+ Ig.      They shouted at his welcome. At Vera Cruz
+          Began the unholy pageantry, that showed
+          As Christ had come again and all men knew him!
+          Each province drained its beauty by the way;
+          The mules that drew him caught the vanity
+          And picked their steps on flowers.
+
+ Trev.                                        Tell me no more.
+          O Gratitude, thou hast no home on earth!
+          Twelve months did Juarez rule, and in twelve months
+          Did what no man can do but God is with him!
+          He healed contention's wounds, set up new schools,
+          Released the land from priestcraft's ancient grip,
+          Rebuilt our credit, destroyed by Miramon,
+          The robber president, who bonded the land
+          To France, then set the sword of Europe 'gainst us
+          Because we could not pay the unjust debt
+          From treasuries that his own hands had emptied.
+          O, 'twas a crime too big for Heaven's eye,
+          And so God let it pass! France could not know--
+          But our own people knew--how Juarez toiled
+          To shape the nation to his noble thought!
+
+ Ig.      Yes--yes--they knew!
+
+ Trev.                          We'll break our swords, my boy.
+          We have no country.
+
+ Ig.                          Is my uncle yet
+          In Texas?
+
+ Trev.              Ay, and we will go to him.
+          ... Ungrateful ground that casts all goodness from it,
+          And sucks a gilded poison!
+
+          (Enter Rafael, Aseffa, Miguel, Lerdo, and others of the
+          camp)
+
+ Raf.     (To Trevino)                Sir, you will miss
+          Your breakfast, but I pledge my sword you'll have
+          To-morrow's supper!... Ignacio!
+
+ Ig.                                      You here,
+          My Rafael! (They embrace) Aseffa too!
+
+ Asef.                                          Dear friend!
+          (They greet affectionately)
+
+ Raf.     And Maximilian is crowned?
+
+ Ig.                                  Yes ... crowned.
+
+ Raf.     You saw him?
+
+ Ig.                    In the cathedral, with the empress.
+
+ Asef.    The empress?
+
+ Raf.                   What looks he like? This Austrian duke
+          That with a stolen crown mocks majesty!
+
+ Ig.      He looks like majesty, and yet is graced
+          With Nature's gentlest stamp; his countenance
+          Takes beauty from his smile; his smile, one thinks,
+          Takes sweetness from a heart that has its own
+          Nobility from heaven.
+
+ Trev.                          An enemy
+          Well praised!
+
+ Asef.                  The empress? She bewitched you too?
+
+          (Ignacio is silent)
+
+          Come, sir! The truth of her!
+
+ Ig.                                    The truth? Go ask
+          The angels. They've tongues for such sweet purpose.
+
+ Trev.                                                        What!
+          Ignacio turned squire o' the empire?
+
+ Ig.                                            No.
+          But I can read a holy woman's face,
+          Though she by some strange counterfeit of truth
+          Would put an empress' foot upon our necks.
+
+ Asef.    What is she like?
+
+ Ig.                        Like nothing but herself.
+          She is not gentle, for gentleness is but
+          Rude servant to that quality in her;
+          Gracious she's not, for grace herself doth serve
+          A poor handmaiden to her excellence;
+          Nor beautiful, for Beauty asks her name
+          To wear but that and know her own no more.
+
+          (In the silence that follows a rider rushes up and dismounts)
+
+ Messenger.
+          Where is the general, Trevino?
+
+ Trev.                                    Here.
+
+ Mess.    Juarez approaches. (Saluting)
+
+ Trev.                        Juarez! Call up the camp!
+          Light all the beacons! Juarez! Build up the fires!
+
+ Shouts.  Juarez! Juarez! Hurrah! El presidente!
+
+ Trev.    We'll let him know the hearts he left i' the hills
+          Still beat with loyal blood!
+
+ Shouts.                                Juarez! Juarez!
+          (Enter Juarez. Silence)
+
+ Jua.     Trevino!
+
+ Trev.              Your Excellency! (They embrace)
+                                      You've heard?
+
+ Jua.                                               I know.
+          Now monarchy has spread her gilded sails,
+          And from the East comes like another sun
+          To blind our eyes with wonder of a crown
+          While shackling us by hand and foot to earth.
+          But from these mountains will arise a queen,
+          The figure grey of ancient Liberty,
+          Mourning and wronged, but with the unpaling star
+          Of God's own favor set upon her brow:
+          These two shall meet--and that mock sun go down!
+
+ Trev.    You still have hope when Mexico deserts us?
+
+ Jua.     Dost read your country in the smile she shows
+          Her conqueror? She has a heart beneath!
+          Ay, sir, did she not prove it at Puebla?
+          Where dead fell on the dead with gun in hand
+          Still pointed to the French! Where, hope once lost,
+          And the enemy pouring through the shattered gates,
+          Our men blew up their city and themselves
+          To keep their souls free from Napoleon!
+          These men have brothers left, and sons,
+          And _they are Mexico_!
+
+ Soldiers.                        El presidente!
+          Liberty and Juarez!
+
+ A soldier. (Waving his sword) We'll be revenged,
+          Or spill more blood than hell can drink!
+
+ Soldiers.
+          Down with the empire! Death to Maximilian!
+
+ Jua.     No, not revenge,--but justice. That's enough.
+          We've but to wait--and strike. Yon mists now spread
+          Their fair illusion o'er the eternal mountains
+          'Till 't seems they are the world, and the great hills
+          Are naught. But by to-morrow's noon-sun see
+          Their fortunes faded as a dream of night,
+          While the rock peak looks up as if to say
+          From the foundation of the world I am!
+          So will this glamour o'er our godly cause
+          Pass as a breath, while all the world shall read
+          Our right and title to unbonded life
+          In our free bosoms founded and God-set!
+
+ A soldier.
+          We'll die for freedom!
+
+ Jua.                             Die? That's the one thing
+          We can not do. We may lie down in graves,
+          But from our living dust will spring new challenge
+          To make in noble minds continual war
+          Until our race be righted!
+
+ Trev.                                Many fly
+          From our misfortunes. Amaldo and LeVal--
+
+ Jua.     Call 't not misfortune that teaches us our friends.
+          Now are we sifted and the chaff is known!
+          ... LeVal! ... But Diaz is true?
+
+ Trev.                                      On yonder mountain
+          His fires make answer for him.
+
+ Jua.     (Looking into distance)         Forgive me, comrade!
+          I know you true, and sooner will yon moon
+          Make her last change and fall than you change once
+          From the full circle of a complete man....
+          (Turns and sees Ignacio)
+          My nephew here?
+
+ Ig.                      Just from the capital.
+
+ Jua.     Where you must back again. Rafael, too!
+          Both my young soldiers! My right arm and my left,--
+          Though which is which I know not. Ignacio,
+          You saw the Austrian? No matter. He's but
+          The drift-piece of a rotten monarchy
+          That thinks to graft upon the living tree
+          Of our new-sprung republic! We'll shake him off
+          As a June oak a spray of winter wreck,
+          Nor ever know he clung upon our boughs!
+
+ Ig.      The church is powerful yet, and seeks to join
+          Her cause with his.
+
+ Jua.                         The church? Say not the church,
+          But mockers in Christ's name, who steal the land
+          And drain its fruitage into Satan's purse,
+          Keeping the poor a race of hopeless slaves
+          Who worship their own shackles! O, Ignorance,
+          Thou art the great slave-master! Thy very chains
+          Are vital and beget themselves; and he
+          Who strikes them seems the monster of the earth
+          To the poor serf who thinks it is himself
+          That bleeds! The church be with our foe, with us
+          Be God, we'll ask no more. Hear me, my men!
+          The great republic of the North's our friend.
+          When her own war is done you'll hear her speak
+          To France in cannon tones that will make quake
+          Napoleon on his throne! That great mock-god.
+          Who seeks to free all men that he may fit
+          Their necks to his own yoke! (With growing intensity)
+                                        That adder who
+          Would coil about the world! That serpent scruffed
+          With white deceit and low ambition's slime,
+          That crept into the garden of my dream
+          And cankered bud and root, nursed by my toil,
+          Fed with my dearest blood! Ay, he will quake,
+          And cry for mercy to a stony Heaven
+          Whose pity drops long since were drained upon
+          The woe that he hath made! Ay, he--
+
+ Trev.    (Touching him)                      But now,
+          My friend?
+
+ Jua.     (Composed) You're right. No more of that. Nephew!
+
+ Ig.      Here, sir!
+
+ Jua.                 Your place will be the capital.
+          We must have eyes there, and a heart to serve us.
+          This hour set out. Here are instructions. (Gives papers)
+
+ Trev.                                              Sir,
+          He's had no rest.
+
+ Jua.                       True ... true....
+
+ Ig.                                          And need none when
+          Juarez commands.
+
+ Jua.     (Taking his hand) Thou'rt still my son. My house
+          Will not fall down when I no longer prop it.
+
+ Raf.     May I not beg this office, sir?
+
+ Trev.                                    Send him!
+          His heart is in the hills, and he'll come back.
+          Ignacio's yet unanchored. Trust him not
+          To high tides of a court.
+
+ Jua.                               I trust them both.
+          But my own blood I know. (To Ig.) Kneel for the oath.
+
+          (Ignacio kneels. Murmurs around, then silence. Juarez
+          takes a crucifix from his bosom and holds it over Ignacio)
+
+ Jua.     By this true image of the bleeding Christ,
+          May you be damned to everlasting fire,
+          Nor prayers of saints lift up your soul from hell,
+          If you prove false in what you undertake
+          This night for Mexico!
+
+ Ig.                              By Christ's own blood.
+          I swear, and may that blood be powerless
+          To save me from the damned if I prove false!
+
+ Jua.                             The stars that hold
+          The witness angels of the Lord have heard
+          Thy oath.
+
+ Ig.      (Rising and looking up)
+                    Let them record it.
+
+ Asef.    (Fearfully)                   Ah!
+
+ Trev.    (Holding out a brand)             The brand!
+
+ Jua.     Not that!
+
+ Ig.      (Baring his arm) I choose it!
+
+          (Trevino quickly brands his arm with a cross. Juarez, too
+          late, dashes the brand from his hand)
+
+ Ig.      (Throwing up his arm)         Sealed to the cause!
+
+          (Hurries to go)
+
+ Jua.     My boy! (Ignacio returns for Juarez' embrace)
+
+ Ig.      (Going) Liberty and Juarez!
+
+ Soldiers.                            Juarez!
+          Liberty and Juarez!
+
+          (All but Juarez follow Ignatius out, cheering)
+
+                              Hurrah! hurrah!
+
+          (Juarez draws his grey mantle about him and stands silent.
+          The fires die down. The moon clouds. He looks up invoking)
+
+ Jua.     Spirit of Montezuma, be thou here
+          And on thy son drop wisdom out of Heaven,
+          That these thy children he may lead to peace,
+          And this thy country give again to him
+          Who set his iron in the earth and said
+          "Man, make thy weapon; there shall be no slaves!"
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+Scene I: Palace of Chapultapec. Hall adjoining ball room. Gaily
+dressed women, and men in glittering official costumes passing
+doors. Marquez and Mejia talking.
+
+ Mar.     You've caught Trevino!
+
+ Mejia.                           Rafael Mendorez too.
+
+ Mar.     Still better. You'll have them shot at once?
+
+ Mejia.   They've too many friends. I must have the emperor's warrant.
+
+ Mar.     He will sign the decree to-night.
+
+ Mejia.   The Lord be thanked! I'm tired of risking life and men
+          taking prisoners that his majesty may have the pleasure of
+          pardoning them.
+
+ Mar.     If he signs the decree he will be sure to reserve the
+          right to pardon. You must try my method.
+
+ Mejia.   And that?
+
+ Mar.     Shoot on the spot, and report no captures.
+
+          (Enter from the ball room Maximilian, Marshal Bazaine,
+          General Miramon, and Count Charles)
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty will sign the law to-night?
+
+ Max.     These men wear the brave name of soldiers; fight
+          Beneath a flag, and claim the rights of war.
+
+ Baz.     They borrow war's fair name to kill and plunder!
+
+ Max.     It was my dream when I took up this crown
+          To claim each subject of the land my own.
+
+ Mir.     And so you may, your majesty. 'Tis true.
+          These men are subjects to no law or nation;
+          They are not Mexico's; they are not God's;
+          But from the heavenly and the human pale
+          They have outbarred themselves. Our honest land
+          Has cast them out as venom to her health!
+          Nurse not this canker in your realm, my lord!
+
+ Max.     I do not know ... but here's my head and heart,
+
+          (Touching Prince Salm-Salm and Count Charles)
+
+          And they may answer. Prince, what do you say?
+
+ Prince Salm.
+          As friend and soldier to your majesty,
+          I must advise the passage of the law.
+
+ Max.     You, Charles?
+
+ Char.                  My lord, if as you say, these men
+          Fight 'neath a flag, and for supposéd rights,
+          You violate the law of noble nations
+          In sentencing to death the prisoners
+          Of recognizéd war.
+
+ Baz.     (Sneering)          Sir, recognized?
+
+ Char.    Does not the United States still call Juarez
+          The president of Mexico?
+
+ Baz.                               Why, count,
+          You'd best consult those books of yours again!
+          Juarez has fled and given up his cause.
+          These men are robbers! Your majesty will sign?
+
+ Max.     Forgive me, friends, if I again say no.
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty, 'tis we should ask your pardon
+          For having failed to lustre as we should
+          This seeming-dark decree,--so wise, so just,
+          And as undoubtedly your duteous act
+          As though some stern necessity of the stars
+          Enjoined it.
+
+ Max.     (Uneasily)    Press it not now. The people wait.
+
+          (All but Marquez go into ballroom)
+
+ Mar.     Some fools have sat on crowns but not for long.
+          He'll sign. The Liberals must be dispatched
+          Fast as we capture them, for we've short time.
+          The United States will soon be free again
+          To turn to us, and what we wish to do
+          Must be well done ere that. Dispatch! Dispatch!
+          Use Maximilian and the French to crush
+          The Liberals, then with the church unite
+          To pull down Maximilian and set up--
+          Marquez!... The Empress--and Ignacio!
+          One I suspect,--a half-breed full of pride!
+          Who'd have the court forget his Indian mother
+          And bear in mind his father was a noble!
+
+                                                    (Goes aside.
+          Enter Carlotta and Ignacio, followed by Prince and
+          Princess Zichy, Prince and Princess Salm-Salm, Princess
+          Josefa de Varela, Colonel Lopez, making merry with a
+          fortune teller. The Empress steps apart with Ignacio)
+
+ Car.     Ignacio! I've met strange looks to-night!
+
+ Ig.      But not unkind ones, noble madam?
+
+ Car.                                       O, such
+          As can not be distinguished by a word,
+          Cold, warm, or dark or fair, bitter or kind!
+          Ah, looks that will not advertise the heart,
+          And yet betray too much!
+
+ Ig.                                Your majesty--
+
+ Car.     A little coldness that might melt to love,
+          A little pity that might soon be hate,
+          A fair 'God with you' shaping to a curse--
+
+ Ig.      What eye can harbor evil meeting yours
+          Where lies a grace that turns all ill to virtue?
+
+ Car.     Would all were true as you, Ignacio!
+
+          (Looks to ballroom and shudders)
+
+          Those eyes! Would I looked not so deep in eyes!
+          ... You love my lord?
+
+ Ig.                            I do, your majesty.
+
+ Car.     Above all other men? (He is silent) Nay, do not answer!
+          'Twas wrong to ask, for you have kinsmen maybe,
+          Brother, or uncle, some one dear in blood
+          Whom Heaven bids you cherish. But you will guard
+          Your Emperor! You'll watch with me for foes?
+          For foes? He has none! How the thought
+          Blasphemes his excellence! But 'tis a world
+          Where whitest merit draws the darkest souls
+          To prey upon it, while mere indifferent good
+          Escapes!... Ignacio, is it true, Juarez
+          Is not in Mexico?
+
+ Ig.                        O, madam!
+
+ Car.                                 Ah!
+          Is 't true the Liberals are disbanded?
+
+ Ig.                                              True?
+
+ Car.     You do not answer, sir!
+
+ Ig.                              It is not true.
+
+ Car.     You know it! You? And they still hope?
+
+ Ig.                                              They do.
+
+ Car.     Then we are playing with an enemy!
+          How do you know?... You traitor, too!... O Heaven!
+          'Tis time now to be up or treachery
+          Will take us all asleep! (Goes from him)
+
+ Ig.      (Following her)           O madam! madam!
+          My heart is all your own!
+
+ Car.     (Turning to him)          Forgive me, friend,
+          And I will wrong no more these honest eyes.
+          But there is danger here, and we must strike!
+          We hold a nation's future in our hands,
+          And now defence is virtue, patience crime!
+
+ Ig.      Your majesty--
+
+ Car.     (Not heeding) Shall we stand here and smile
+          Till rebel blows have shattered life and throne?
+          ... Dupin shall drive these desperate people back--
+          This law be signed--
+
+ Ig.      (With horror)         Dear Christ!
+
+ Car.                                         What do you mean?
+
+ Ig.      Will Maximilian pass a law of death,
+          Condemning patriots to a robber's grave?
+          O, Empress, sue upon your knees that he
+          Do not this thing, for every act of his
+          Not marked with justice to his enemies
+          Will rob him of the pity they would show
+          When victory is theirs! He writes his doom
+          As certainly as he doth set his name
+          To that black law, and gives Dupin his will
+          Among our helpless people!
+
+ Princess Zichy. (From group about the gipsy, as all laugh)
+                                      Your majesty,
+          You heard?
+
+ Car.                 I heard. (To Ignacio, much disturbed)
+                                Go join them! Go! (Ignacio joins group)
+                                                  He's true!
+          My lord in danger!
+
+ Princess de Varela.          Now mother, my hand next!
+
+          (Gipsy scans her hand)
+
+ Car.     'Rob him of pity!' 'When victory is theirs!'
+          I know the pity given to the fallen
+          In this blood-drunken land! There's but one way...
+          We must not fall!... 'Tis war, then,--war! Not for
+          An empire, no,--but Maximilian's life!
+          And we must use the weapons in our hands!
+
+ Gip.     (Reading)
+
+                  Days of brightness, days of smiles,
+                  Read I here or Fate beguiles!
+
+ Princess S.
+          O these fortunes are like lines from a fairy book!
+          Surely we are not all going to be happy!
+
+ Gip.     I'll read for you, madam.
+
+ Princess S.
+          But let not your change of song begin with me,
+          dark mother!
+
+ Gip.     (Reading)
+
+                  Days of darkness, days of moan!
+                  A friend shall sigh, a friend shall fall,
+                  And wring thy bosom more than all
+                  The sorrow that thou yet hast known!
+
+ Princess S.
+          O think better of it, mother!
+
+ Gip.     Your sweet eyes deserve a better portion than tears, and
+          I read too,
+
+                  But ere thy last hour be nigh
+                  Sorrow from thy breast shall fly!
+
+ Princess S.
+          A friend, you say? I thank you, 'twas not my husband!
+
+ Gip.             And yet a husband he,
+                  And many tears thou'lt see!
+
+ Car.     (Aside) A friend--a husband--and a fall!
+
+ Gip.     Shall I read for her majesty?
+
+ Car.     No! no!
+
+ Lopez.   She has peeped into Fate's urn, madam, I assure you!
+
+ Car.     Nay, I'm content. What I choose for myself I will abide,
+          and what I choose not is the gift of God and I'll abide
+          that too!
+
+ Prince Zichy.
+          I congratulate you! Majesty is not always able to
+          show such noble indifference to the future, and lesser
+          mortals--never!
+
+ Gip.     Please the stars, may I read for you, sir?
+
+ Prince Zichy.
+          I give you a proxy,--Senor Ignacio. If the fortune
+          be fair, I take it, if not, I leave it with him.
+
+ Ladies.  O, hear Ignacio's fortune! (They crowd about him and
+          the gypsy)
+
+ Car.     (To Lopez) A favor, sir! Will you take a message to his
+          majesty?
+
+ Lopez.   I am twice blest--to bear your message--and bear it to the
+          emperor. (They talk apart)
+
+ Gip.     Here's a secret matter, sir. Shall I speak it out?
+
+ Ig.      O spare me! Come aside!
+
+ Ladies.  Nay, nay, Ignacio! You heard our fortunes!
+
+ Ig.      But yours were fair and innocent, and mine is dark and
+          guilty--maybe with crime!
+
+ Ladies.  Oh! A crime!
+
+ Ig.      Come, witch! (They go aside, near where Marquez is
+          stationed unseen) Aseffa!
+
+ Asef.    Rafael is prisoner at Savarro! Trevino is taken, too!
+
+ Ig.      O Heaven! (To ladies) Stay back! 'Tis crime indeed!
+
+ Ladies.  Villain!
+
+ Asef.    Help me to Maximilian! O, I must see him! You called him
+          gentle! When I tell him what Rafael is--the fairest soul
+          man ever called a foe--
+
+ Ig.      Softly, Aseffa! You can not see the emperor to-night.
+
+ Asef.    I must! To-morrow 't will be too late! He dies at sunrise!
+
+ Ig.      Rafael! My friend! my brother!--
+
+ Asef.    Quiet! quiet! Smile, Ignacio! Ha! ha! I'll pray it be not
+          true, sir!
+
+ Ig.      But you can see Count Charles. He's Maximilian's very
+          heart, and once you win him the Emperor is won. Go in! Go
+          in! I'll bring you to the count! Be light of heart! Our
+          Rafael is safe!
+
+ Asef.    Ignacio, the Empress is all you said.
+          Prayers on their way to Heaven meeting her
+          Would think their journey ended. Can you be true?
+
+ Ig.      (Touching his arm)
+          I bear the seal.
+
+ Asef.                      God help thee!
+
+ Ig.                                        Go!
+                                    (To ladies) 'Tis done!
+          I know my sins!
+
+ Princess de V.           But what a smiling sinner!
+
+ Princess Salm.
+          A cloud is hovering. Come, sir! I shall know it!
+
+          (Takes his arm. Mexican national dance begins. All go into
+          ballroom, the Empress with Lopez)
+
+ Mar.     Ignacio a Liberal! And branded!
+          He's finished! But I'll pick my hour for it!
+          Mendorez safe! Ay, if he's bullet-proof!
+
+          (Re-enter Carlotta with Archbishop Labastida)
+
+ Lab.     I thank your Highness for this gracious moment!
+          Most holy Empress--
+
+ Car.                         Not holy, sir, and yet
+          I hope with touch of God's anointment on me.
+
+ Lab.     Did it but rest with you His love would soon
+          Like cloud of rose veil Mexico in beauty.
+
+ Car.     But rest with me?
+
+ Lab.                       Ay, noble lady, you.
+          I bear a letter from his Holiness,
+          In which he says his Empress daughter's zeal
+          Is jewelled in his heart,--but urges me
+          To speak to Maximilian of his strange
+          Reluctance to fulfill his promise.
+
+ Car.                                         Promise?
+
+ Lab.     To give the Church the olden glory that
+          She shone with here! Restore her rights--
+
+ Car.                                               'Tis true
+          He promised that, and he has kept his word
+          As an account with God. He is convinced
+          The rights claimed by the Church are stolen rights
+          She wrung from ignorance for her earthly glory,
+          And he's resolved to maintain Juarez' law
+          So far as it accords with justice.
+
+ Lab.                                         Madness!
+          Call back Juarez to power! Yield the throne
+          To the republican! For 't will so end
+          If Maximilian scorns us and our help!
+
+ Car.     He does not scorn you, sir, but seeks to find
+          Where the division comes 'tween you and Christ
+          And set himself upon the side of Heaven.
+
+ Lab.     You will divorce the favor of the pope,
+          Without whose help you may not hope to stand.
+          Plead with your lord again to probe our claim,
+          And find therein some wise and prudent reason
+          To give us aid,--and thereby keep his crown.
+
+ Car.     Yes, I will speak; but I shall not forget,
+          Whate'er I say, he is an Emperor! (Exit)
+
+ Mar.     (Coming forward) A pair of fools are jiggling with a crown.
+
+ Lab.     You heard, Marquez?
+
+ Mar.                         And knew before I heard.
+
+ Lab.     And you are patient?
+
+ Mar.                           Maximilian
+          Means France, and France we must keep ours,--at least
+          Till we have finished with the Liberals,--
+
+ Lab.     And then?
+
+ Mar.               We need not go so far to make
+          A wiser choice.
+
+ Lab.     (Looking at him meaningly)
+                          Not far indeed!
+
+ Mar.                                     I thank you.
+          But that's hereafter. Come with me, your grace.
+          I'd speak of something more immediate.
+
+          (Exeunt left)
+
+          (Enter from ballroom General Miramon, Marshal Bazaine and
+          Colonel Dupin, the last a large, vain, blustering man,
+          gorgeously and expensively arrayed from head to foot. A
+          sombrero wonderfully trimmed with gold and silver is
+          carried in his hand and used in sweeping salutations)
+
+ Dup.     At last I am called to court! I thought his majesty would
+          soon or late have need of my experience in throat-cutting.
+
+ Mir.     But, my dear Dupin, it is not in your capacity of
+          throat-cutter that we introduce you. These towns that have
+          given aid to the Liberals must be punished without the
+          Emperor's knowledge. You will make an example of them?
+
+ Dup.     Will I? Hear him, Marshal! Will I?
+
+ Mir.     But not a word to the Emperor!
+
+ Dup.     Softish, eh?
+
+ Mir.     His spongy heart is filled with water of compassion. Touch
+          it anywhere it pours!
+
+ Baz.     I'm not going to throw away the lives of any more
+          Frenchmen just to give him a chance to play at clemency!
+          An emperor should be a sort of vitalized stone, capable
+          of action but incapable of impression.
+
+ Dup.     Then I'm the man for emperor! I've always suspected my
+          qualifications for the part. By the lord, I've made women
+          who were hungry enough to eat their own children watch my
+          soldiers throw bread into the sea! And when I was with the
+          French and English in old Chinee--well, they've called me
+          the 'Tigre' since then. You've heard about that! (Struts
+          and sings)
+
+                  I'm the tigre of the East,
+                  Got my claws in old Pekin
+                  When the yellow kids we fleeced
+                  And held up the mandarin!
+
+                  O we caught him by the queue,
+                    As he from our captains flew,
+                  That quaking little, shaking little mandarin.
+                    And we dragged him out to view
+                    By that most convenient queue,
+                  When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!
+
+          My friends, if you will excuse me, there are several
+          dozens of ladies in the ball room waiting for a dance with
+          the costume par excellence of the evening. I am not always
+          sure of a welcome for my face, but my costume is never in
+          doubt. Ah, sweet woman! you can please me twice. I can
+          dance with you--and I can kill you! When the Emperor asks
+          for me I shall not decline an introduction,--though he was
+          not born an emperor and I was born Dupin! (Exit)
+
+ Baz.     Is he as villainous as his conversation?
+
+ Mir.     His talk is but the mildest prologue to his deeds.
+
+ Baz.     Then he's the man for us. We shall never drive back the
+          Liberals but by methods of unmitigated severity.
+
+ Mir.     There is no barbarity too great for the intimidation of
+          these towns.
+
+ Baz.     The only absolutely safe plan is to raze them from the
+          earth.
+
+ Mir.     Trust Dupin! (They go into ballroom. Enter, right, Count
+          Charles and Aseffa. Her disguise is thrown back revealing
+          her beauty)
+
+ Asef.    You help me though a Liberal and your foe!
+
+ Char.    A foe! Dear lady, when you besought my aid
+          Methought it was divinity that spoke,
+          So sacred sweet seemed the request. I'll save
+          Your brother.
+
+ Asef.                  Ah, dearer than a brother, sir.
+          It is my husband!
+
+ Char.                      Husband!
+
+ Asef.                                Yes, my lord.
+          And dearer than--You have a wife?
+
+ Char.                                      No, lady.
+
+ Asef.    O, then you can not know! But you have loved?
+
+ Char.    I love.
+
+ Asef.            A lover--not a husband. Ah!
+          Add to thy love a thousand dearer loves
+          And take their sum a thousand times a thousand,
+          'T will be the smallest part divisible
+          Of my dear love for Rafael! You'll save him?
+
+ Char.    Yes--I will save him. Do you trust me?
+
+ Asef.                                            Trust you?
+          As I would Heaven! (Kisses his hands and goes out, right)
+
+ Char.                        Gone! Aseffa! Gone?
+          No, never gone! Her kisses here! O lips
+          That swept like drifting roses o'er my hands--
+          Both hands,--sweet equity! Still are they warm
+          As they were dipped in summer, though her touch
+          Was maiden light nor robbed him of a jot
+          Who should have all. Her husband--'twas a word
+          She used to slay me with!... Even in sorrow
+          She is more fair than any other fair
+          Met on a holiday. But when she smiled
+          She seemed like Fortune giving away a world.
+          So gracious was her splendor. Thou art revenged,
+          O little demon god so long my scorn!
+          Would I had given my heart by piecemeal out
+          Since I was ten than to have lost it so,
+          For going all at once it takes my life
+          And I must lose my life or follow it.
+          Ah, love should come like waves unto a shore,
+          Soft creeping up and back and up again.
+          Till taught to stand receptive we are firm
+          When the last, highest wave envelops us.
+          ... May God restore me!... O her beauty burns
+          As she were limned by lightning on the night!
+          Her eyes are torches that Eternity
+          Lends life to read her dreams! Her cheek
+          Is June within a bud! Her veins have caught
+          The falling sun that in them strives to rise
+          To a new dawn!... And I must save him--save him!
+          This unknown man that holds the flaming sword
+          Above my paradise!... If this decree
+          Is signed she will be widowed ... (Stops in horror)
+                                            I am mad!...
+          ... She will be free ... Away, sweet hell, whose face
+          Is masked like heaven!... Let solid earth be air,
+          The air be lead, light change to dark, and dark
+          Be as the sun, 't will be no miracle
+          When murder finds a welcome in my heart!
+
+          (Enter Maximilian, Bazaine, Miramon, Dupin, Berzabal,
+          Ruiz, Estrada, Ignacio)
+
+ Max.     (To Dupin) We're glad to welcome you. 'T will be your
+          charge to guard the unprotected towns now suffering from
+          the raids of Liberals.
+
+ Mir.     Of men, your majesty, who steal that title to grace a
+          brigand's life!
+
+ Max.     So we're assured.
+
+ Dup.     I'll see to it, sir, that these towns play no love-tricks
+          with the enemy!
+
+ Baz.     Sh!
+
+ Max.     No danger that way. Your duty is to protect them!
+
+ Dup.     No offense, I hope. But treason is a lively beast and hard
+          to keep low. As your majesty's officer I must cudgel it
+          down wherever I find it.
+
+ Max.     If unhappily you find it, sir--
+
+ Dup.     I'll cut the throat of every man dog of 'em!
+
+ Max.     Sir? (Turns to Bazaine) The Colonel's speech is very
+          figurative, good Marshal. (To Dupin) All instances of
+          treason, (and God forbid there should be one!) will be
+          reported to me for careful investigation.
+
+ Dup.     A thousand pardons, your Highness! I was swept away by my
+          devotion to your majesty! I shall remember that you wish
+          me to observe the mildest temperance in dealing with your
+          majesty's enemies. (As the emperor looks questioningly at
+          Bazaine, Dupin snarls, then repeats suavely) The mildest
+          temperance in dealing with your majesty's enemies.
+
+ Max.     That is our wish. The mildest temperance. And this decree,
+          Colonel Dupin? Would you advise its passage?
+
+ Dup.     I should be so hot to sign it, sir, my zeal would boil the
+          ink in the bottle!
+
+ Max.     Very figurative, Marshal! (To Dupin) As yet we have not
+          reconciled the matter with our conscience.
+
+          (Lopez enters and comes up to the Emperor)
+
+ Lop.     (Handing him a slip of paper) Your majesty, the Empress
+          sends you this.
+
+          (Maximilian reads aside:) 'Sign the decree.'
+
+ Max.     (Aside) What has she heard?
+
+ Dup.     (At a distance, in rear of Maximilian, folds his hands
+          meekly on his breast and whistles softly)
+
+          'When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!' (Mimics)
+          'As yet we have not reconciled the matter with our
+          conscience.' Does he think he can govern Mexico with a
+          prayer-book? Put him in his cradle and sing by-lo-baby!
+
+ Max.     (To Miramon, who has spoken to him)
+          There's only one left to oppose it--Charles.
+
+ Mir.     My lord, you'd set a scholar's word against
+          A general's in matters of the field?
+          The count's opinion, born within a closet,
+          Would die in open air but for your nursing.
+
+ Max.     Come, Count, defend your cause.
+
+ Char.                                    My cause, my lord?
+
+ Max.     You are but one against the government.
+          Canst talk above so big a head? If not,
+          I fear we'll pass this law of blood. Come, come!
+          Be eloquent! My heart would have you win!
+
+ Char.    (Very pale and hesitating)
+          Your majesty--I beg--
+
+ Max.                           Goes it so deep
+          To your good heart?
+
+ Mir.                         My lord--
+
+ Max.                                   Forgive me, Charles,
+          For pressing you so much. We'll rest to-night.
+          To-morrow there'll be time.
+
+ Char.    (Hastily)                   No! Not to-morrow!
+          Sign the decree! Sign it to-night!
+
+          (Maximilian looks with the greatest astonishment at
+          his now flushed face and eager manner, then thinks
+          he understands)
+
+ Max.                                         Ah, Charles,
+          This tender heart of yours will kill you yet.
+          No more of this. I'll keep you at your books.
+
+ Char.    (Recovering, proceeds with suavity, completely sold
+          to his desire)
+          My mind has cleared with deeper thought, my lord,
+          Discord, the ancients tell us, was at first
+          So small a gnat did give her birth, but grew
+          So great her feet o'erturned proud cities while
+          Her head upset the gods in council. So this
+          Small trouble may o'ercast your destiny--
+          And is 't not better, sir, to pass a law,
+          However dreaded, 'gainst the rebel few
+          Than that the nation trusted to your care
+          Should be broad cursed with civil slaughter?
+
+ Max.                                                   Better?
+          If such a danger threatens 'tis a crime
+          Not to forfend it!
+
+          (Enter Marquez and Archbishop Labastida)
+
+ Lab.                         Gracious sovereign!
+
+ Max.     Most reverend father, you would counsel us?
+
+ Lab.     We would, your majesty. If yet the wish
+          Of Heaven has power over you; and Christ
+          Be your most high example, you will prove
+          A careful guardian to your trusting people,
+          And crush this villainous and robber race
+          Now preying on the true and innocent,
+          Swelling each day more poisonous and foul!
+
+ Max.     We are decided. Are we not, good Charles?
+
+ Mar.     (Hastily) Nay, sire--
+
+ Max.                           We are decided--to pass this law.
+          Convinced that 'tis the honest course.
+
+          (All surprised and relieved but Ignacio, who starts with
+          horror)
+
+ Ig.      My God!
+
+ Mir.             Blest majesty, we thank you!
+
+ Lab.                                           You do but set
+          Your name where Heaven's seal already shines.
+
+ Ig.      The seal of Hell! O noblest man that breathes
+          This corrupt air, take back that word of death
+          Ere it is stamped in black upon your soul!
+
+ Mir.     (After a silence)
+          An Aztec, sire, and nephew to Juarez.
+
+ Max.     You think that is a sin? Among our friends
+          Are many whose nearest kinsmen nobly served
+          The lost Republic. Hear us, Ignacio.
+          This law is subject to a firm condition:
+          Each officer shall make report to us,
+          And every captive who deserves not death
+          Shall have our pardon.
+
+ Ig.                              Then, you'll pardon two
+          Now at Savarro, Trevino and Mendorez,
+          Both doomed to die at sunrise!
+
+ Mir.                                     Ravagers!
+          Brigands! Ay, murderers!
+
+ Ig.                                No! Patriots!
+          Soldiers! And martyrs if they die! My lord,
+          If they have plundered, 'twas to feed an army;
+          If they have killed,--that is the aim of war.
+          They are your foes, but noble ones,--and men,
+          Not creatures to be caught in traps and shot
+          Like beasts!
+
+ Max.                   We'll look to this. Marquez, at once
+          Send a dispatch commanding they be held
+          As prisoners of war until we've time
+          To examine them.
+
+ Mar.                       I will, your majesty.
+
+ Ig.      My lord, at Callovalla when the French
+          Had routed the Republicans, there came
+          At night some student priests into the field
+          To help the wounded and to cheer the dying.
+          This man, Marquez, set on them with his troop
+          And made them prisoners. The morning sun
+          Beheld each saintly minister shot dead.
+          And you would trust this devil with the life
+          Of captive foes? A man whose hands are red
+          With God's own blood?
+
+ Mar.                           He lies! Your majesty,
+          I'll prove him traitor to your very eyes!
+
+ Ig.      Traitor?
+
+ Mar.               Ay, sir, and spy! Lay bare his arm,
+          And see the branded cross!--the sacred mark
+          Of those who've sworn to die in Juarez' cause!
+
+          (Snatches at Ignacio's arm as if he would expose it)
+
+ Ig.      Liar and devil! do not touch me!
+
+ Mar.                                       Spy!
+
+ Lop.     The proof is easy, sire. Expose his arm!
+
+ Ig.      I scorn such proof! And with my sword I'll meet
+          Who dares lay hand upon me!
+
+ Lab.                                 Justice, sire!
+          Command him to lay bare his arm!
+
+          (Silence. Maximilian approaches Ignacio slowly and lays
+          his hand on his arm)
+
+ Max.     (Turning to Marquez, his hand still on Ignacio)
+          You are a soldier, able and honorable.
+          I trust you with my captives.... Ignacio,
+          You are no traitor,--and I trust you with
+          My confidence. Both are deceived. 'Tis I
+          Must study how to heal this sad division.
+          ... But now, we'll sign this necessary law.
+          Come in with me, my friends. (Exeunt all but Ignacio)
+
+ Ig.                                    Too noble soul!
+          Too gentle heart! O foul, most foul betrayal!
+          He dooms himself. O, Maximilian,
+          We go on different ways, but each to death!
+          The truest heart about thee is my own,
+          And I'm a spy--death-vowed to be thy foe!
+          I'll warn the empress!... No. Sealed to the cause.
+          Dead I may guard her. Death alone may give
+          Me to her service. There's no oath can bind
+          The disembodied spirit. (Takes paper from his pocket)
+                                  Here's set down
+          All I have learned of the Imperial plans.
+
+          (Burns paper in candle flame)
+
+          'Tis fixed in memory, and if I live
+          Juarez shall hear it all,--and--if I die--
+          The grave is asked no questions. (Suddenly) Rafael!
+          This signed to-night, to-morrow Rafael dies.
+          Marquez will cut off all reprieve. One way
+          Is left.... I'll go. With life already lost
+          Who would not fling the corpse to save a friend?
+          My honor's bound to freedom and Juarez,
+          My heart bound to the Empress and her lord.
+          O, love, while I have life thou must command me,
+          Then to save honor ... let me die!... Ah, could
+          I save thee too, Carlotta! O, what woe
+          Awaits thy heart, madonna, saint ... and love!
+          Might I but say farewell before I go,
+          Then I could spur to death with happy heart,
+          And I must travel fast to reach Savarro.
+
+          (Takes a lady's glove from his bosom)
+          My treasure, come!
+
+          (Enter Carlotta)
+
+ Car.                         It must be signed ... it must ...
+          (Sees Ignacio)
+
+ Ig.      O, little finger casements, do you mourn
+          Your pretty tenants lost?--five rose-sweet nuns
+          That pray at one white shrine! (Kisses glove)
+
+ Car.     (Advancing)                     I hope, my friend,
+          She's worthy of your noble love.
+
+ Ig.                                        O, madam,
+          In her doth Heaven on earth make sweet beginning.
+          And aspirations tend her from the skies.
+
+ Car.     And she is beautiful as good?
+
+ Ig.                                    O, fair
+          As olden marble walking down to us.
+          Or that immortal Helen on whose lip
+          Poets still feed the dream that's never fed!
+
+ Car.     She must be fair indeed. I hope she loves
+          As much as she's beloved.
+
+ Ig.                                Nay, she dreams not
+          Of my poor worship.
+
+ Car.                         You must tell her, sir.
+
+ Ig.      With her I have no tongue, and can not woo.
+          To see her is to think in hurrying dreams
+          That move about some new desire of God.
+          Nay, she's the picture finished, vision complete,
+          That perfect stands where dream no farther goes
+          And shuts the gates to prophecy!
+
+ Car.                                       Would you
+          But woo her thus you'd win her, never fear!
+          We women would be beautiful, and love
+          The tongue that makes us so. Go, talk to her
+          As you have talked to me.
+
+ Ig.                                'Tis not the same.
+          There's something in your smile inviteth speech.
+          Were she but you then would I kneel and say, (kneels)
+          O rest me 'neath the heaven of your eye
+          That gathers blessings as the sun his dews
+          To give again to earth, and let your heart
+          Throb once with pity sweeter than the love
+          That other women give, and yet be dumb,
+          That this sweet moment's balm may wrap my heart
+          Till death bids it be still. O, love me not,
+          But on my head lay thy madonna hand,
+          And bless me as a mother would her child
+          Who goes to death in going from her eyes!
+
+ Car.     (Laying her hand on his head)
+          And I will bless thee, too, as she would do,
+          True knight of love, gentle Ignacio!
+          And yet I hope you will ask more of her,
+          And she will grant it.
+
+ Ig.      (Rising)                More is too much. Farewell.
+          I leave the court to-night,--but go content,--
+          Ay, happy! (Exit)
+
+ Car.                 He leaves the court!... What a strange youth!
+          But very true and noble, and well deserves
+          The fairest woman's love. (Picks up glove dropped
+          by Ignacio)               He's lost her glove.
+          I'll send it after him. (Calls attendant) Andorro!... Ah!
+          It is my own! Yes ... yes ... the same ... here is--
+          My own indeed!... And that is why he leaves
+          The court!... Poor youth! (She drops glove. Enter Andorro)
+                                    Ignacio just passed out.
+          He dropped this glove. His lady's favor maybe.
+          I'm sure 'tis prized. Haste, take it after him.
+
+ And.     (Picks up glove)
+          Your pleasure, royal madam! (Going)
+
+ Car.                                 No--that way.
+
+                                                    (Exit Andorro)
+
+          ... Unhappy boy!... I'm glad I sent the glove.
+
+          (Enter Maximilian and ministers)
+
+ Car.     (Going to him and taking his arm)
+          'Tis signed?
+
+ Max.                   'Tis signed, my love. Come, friends! This act
+          Of wisdom passed gives me a lighter heart!
+
+          (All but Marquez go into ballroom)
+
+ Mar.     The great death-warrant's signed. Ere its black list
+          Be full, there'll be an emperor on the roll!
+
+          (National music. Dancers seen through doors, the emperor
+          and empress among them)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene I: Before the Imperial Theatre. Brilliant lights. Crowd
+confusedly assembled. All talking.
+
+ Shouts.  Long live the Empire!
+
+ Citizen.
+          O you mob, you puppet throat, that whistles as you're
+          squeezed!
+
+ A Mob Orator.
+          My friends, to-day we gloriously celebrate the
+          birthday of the most glorious empire--
+
+ Cit.     Long live the Republic! Hail to Juarez!
+
+ Voices.  To dungeon with him! The traitor! Tear him to pieces!
+
+          (Guards dash upon citizen and drag him off)
+
+ 1st Officer.
+          Don't tell me the Republic is dead when a man is
+          willing to die just to give one shout for it.
+
+ 2d Officer.
+          Three-fourths of the Mexicans have hearts of that
+          color. But the Empire stands. Miramon is a miracle. How
+          does he manage it?
+
+ 1st Off.
+          He understands the use of the bayonet. As our friend
+          over the water says, you can do anything with bayonets
+          but sit on them.
+
+ 2d Off.  Isn't this a rabble? Motley's the only wear in
+          Maximilian's court. He might succeed in running this
+          country if so many people hadn't come along to help
+          him do it. You ask a French question and you get a
+          Dutch answer. You give an order in Prussian and it's
+          obeyed in Irish,--
+
+ Voices.  He comes! Make way! Make way! Hail to Maximilian!
+
+ Chief Guard.
+          Back, all of you! The Emperor will greet you yonder!
+          We've orders to clear the plaza! Back! Back! His carriage
+          stops! Go, get your places! Out! out!
+
+          (Guards drive mob out)
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          If all the Empire's birthdays are to be like this I
+          hope it will never come of age. It's work, I tell you! I'm
+          dripping like a squeezed cloud!
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          If it had pleased the Empire to spend a little of the
+          money it has wasted to-day for the widows and orphans it
+          has made--
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Sh! We're paid for our muscle, not our opinions.
+          (Shouts outside)
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          And the mob is paid for its lungs!
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Yes. Miramon sees to that.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          Only the Emperor's carriage approaches the door?
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          None but his.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          If I were he I wouldn't make such a glittering show of
+          myself in that Milan carriage--all gold and silver and
+          tortoise shell, and an angel at every corner--while there
+          are so many hearts breaking in sound of it.
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Ph! He knows nothing of the breaking hearts! Miramon
+          sees to that.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          He'll have to know soon, or Juarez will tell him in
+          the capital.
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Not a word! On your life! (Shouts without) Here they
+          are! By Jesu! The fools have taken the mules from the
+          carriage and draw it themselves! Now I wonder how much a
+          head Miramon pays for that!
+
+          (Enter rabble of shouting citizens drawing carriage in
+          which sit the Emperor and Empress. They are followed by a
+          brilliant party of ladies and gentlemen. General and Madam
+          Miramon, Princess de Varela, Prince and Princess Zichy,
+          Prince and Princess Salm-Salm, Lopez, Count Charles,
+          Marquez, Archbishop Labastida, Estrada, Berzabal, and
+          others)
+
+ Max.     (To citizens)
+          My friends, though I protest against this honor,
+          I thank you from my heart for such kind proof
+          Of your affection. (Alights)
+
+ Voices.                      Long live Maximilian!
+
+ One of the rabble, awkward and ignorant.
+          Long live the President of the Empire!
+
+ Max.     (Smiling) I've no objection to that title, friend, but I
+          fear it would be criticised in Europe.
+
+          (Crowd passes out shouting and dragging carriage)
+
+ Max.     (To Carlotta, as he looks at theatre) A
+          noble building! Fair and magnificent!
+
+ Car.     How yonder gardens gleam beneath the lights
+          Like some soft dream of worlds we do not know!
+
+ Max.     And all is yours, my sweet,--all planned by you!
+          O love, you shall be mistress of a land
+          The fairest ever smiled up to the sun!
+          What say you, Charles? Does not this hour repay
+          Even the sacrifice of Miramar?
+
+ Car.     (Smiling) Nay, he longs still for the old nooks and books.
+
+ Char.    Let me admit it. This mistress Pleasure, sir,
+          Though she is fair is not so wondrous fair
+          As goddess Knowledge. Beautiful as bride
+          To her lord's eye is she to worshippers,
+          Who seek and woo her till she yieldeth up
+          Her locked virginity--the Truth!
+
+ Max.     (Affectionately) Ay, Charles,
+          Get knowledge if thou canst, and yet despair not,
+          For none so poor but virtue may be his;
+          And though your knowledge is earth's silver key
+          That opens man's and nature's heart,
+          'Tis golden virtue opens Heaven and shows
+          The God among his stars.... But, come, dear friends!
+          Pleasure is a true goddess too. We'll show
+          Her fair respect.
+
+          (All go into theatre but Charles, who drops back unnoticed)
+
+ Char.                      He constantly unmasks me
+          And knows it not. Knowledge! 'Tis withered leaves
+          Amid a world of dewy boughs! Knowledge!
+          To one school will I go--one book I'll read,
+          The school of love, the page of woman's eye,
+          And I'll know more than sages and divines
+          Who study stars and Scripture!...
+          'For none so poor but virtue may be his'
+          O noble soul, had I been true to thee
+          I now could open thy deceivéd eyes.
+          Crime seals my lips. I can but pray
+          This empire built on blood may stand. We are
+          The creatures of our deeds, more bound to them
+          Than slave to master, for the terms of service
+          Are fast indentured in the soul and know
+          No razure!... But I will find Aseffa! Then,
+          Though sin should set a darkness on my life
+          To draw each night out to a winter's length
+          That constant storms from sallow leaf to green,
+          Still love's sweet lamp shall light me! In my heart
+          'T will be as day!
+
+          (Enter Aseffa veiled, her dress covered with a black
+          cloak. An attendant following. She tries to cross over to
+          side entrance of theatre. A guard stops her)
+
+ Asef.                        I am a singer.
+
+ Guard.                                       Show
+          Your pass.
+
+ Asef.                Here, sir.
+
+          (Guard signs for her to pass on. She sees Charles
+          and stops. Steps before him, throwing back her veil)
+
+ Asef.                            You swore to save him!
+
+ Char.                                                    You!
+          Aseffa! Blest--
+
+ Asef.                    You swore it!
+
+ Char.                                  And would have died
+          To keep my oath could I have kept it dying.
+
+ Asef.    The Emperor refused you? (He bows his head) Demon! Oh!
+
+          (Turns to go, moaning)
+
+ Char.    (Aside) I lose her!... Stay! Is there no hope for grief?
+
+ Asef.    Not mine! Can you not read it here?
+
+ Char.                                        Too well.
+          Thy sorrow is a veil through which thy beauty
+          Burns like a shrouded sun.
+
+ Asef.                                You pity me?
+
+ Char.    As Heaven knows!
+
+ Asef.                      Then you will help me, sir?
+
+ Char.    I'll give my life to do it!
+
+ Asef.                                Ah, you will?
+          Then get me access to the Emperor.
+
+ Char.    O sweet Aseffa, you ask a miracle,
+          And I am sadly mortal.
+
+ Asef.                            I knew! I knew!
+          My misery is your plaything!
+
+ Char.                                  His ministers
+          So hedge him with their care--
+
+ Asef.                                    O spare excuse!
+          But I shall see him, sir! Ay, face to face!
+
+ Char.    Why would you see him? He can not call the dead.
+
+ Asef.    The dead! Thou hast but daggers for me! Ah!
+
+ Char.    Aseffa--
+
+ Asef.              Yes, I'll see him! What think you?
+          Should I go shouting 'murderer' through that hall,
+          Would he arise and answer to his name?
+
+ Char.    You're mad, Aseffa!
+
+ Asef.                        Thank Heaven I am! 'T would be
+          The shame of woman to know all that I know
+          And not be mad!
+
+ Char.                    You must not go in there.
+
+ Asef.    (Fiercely) Must not!
+                (Suddenly calm) Nay, sir! Why see, I go to sing
+          A welcome to the noble Emperor. (Throws back her cloak)
+          As this dark cloak now hides my gay apparel,
+          So shall my gay demeanor hide my woe.
+
+ Char.    You would not harm the Emperor?
+
+ Asef.                                    No need!
+          Yon moon is worshipped for her borrowed gold,
+          Though charred and cold without a leaf to dower
+          Her black sterility. So Maximilian.
+          Napoleon's favor is the sun that gilds
+          His worthless crown. But now the French are going--
+
+ Char.    What?
+
+ Asef.          Ah! The French are going.
+
+ Char.                                    No!
+
+ Asef.    And Maximilian shall fade to air,
+          Unheeded as the moon no eye could find
+          Without her sun!
+
+ Char.                      But hearts can live and love
+          Though Maximilian falls.
+
+ Asef.                              Can live--and love!
+          You torture me!
+
+ Char.                    Forgive me. But the share
+          Must rip the glebe before the corn may spring.
+
+ Asef.    What do you mean, cold Austrian?
+
+ Char.                                      Austrian! No!
+          Your southern sun has poured into my veins
+          A life that makes me new! I feel as you
+          Those throbs that shake the stars until they fall
+          Into the heart and make it heaven! My lips
+          Can move toward lips as haste rose-gloried clouds
+          To swoon into the sun!
+
+ Asef.                            Ah, yes--I know--
+          You told me that you loved. But why say this
+          To one who has lost all?
+
+ Char.                              I'd have you learn
+          That you must live, Aseffa, and life for you
+          Means love. Your eyes, your lips, your hands, your hair,
+          Like coiléd sweetness of the night, and all
+          Your swaying, melting body, gather love
+          As roses gather smiles, as waves draw down
+          The heart-flood of the moon and hold it deep
+          And trembling.
+
+ Asef.                    Sir, your roses, waves, and smiles,
+          Are poet-nothings. You play with them as shells,
+          Stirring chance colors for an idle eye.
+          It is your way of saying, is it not,
+          That I shall love again?
+
+ Char.                              You must! you must!
+
+ Asef.    Such words are like bright raindrops falling in
+          Another world. They glitter, but I hear
+          No sound, grief has so closed my ears. Take back
+          Your comfort. You would be kind, but noble count,
+          You talk of what a man can never know,--
+          A woman's sorrow for a husband loved.
+          So high no height can reach it, so great and deep
+          The sea can not embrace it, and yet her heart
+          Can hold it all. O strangest of all love,
+          That makes her rather stoop in beggar rags
+          To kiss the happy dust where his foot pressed
+          Than from a throne lean down to give her lips
+          Unto a kneeling king!
+
+ Char.                          Aseffa, grief
+          Is not for you. You must--you must be happy!
+          The shy and tender Dawn creeps up in fear
+          That Night has laid some blight upon the world,
+          But finding all is well, steps forth, and lo!
+          Out of her courage the great sun is born.
+          So doth the heart look outward after grief
+          To find the world all dark, but nay, the light
+          Is more of heaven than it was before,
+          Because a face is shining from the clouds.
+          You dim your loved one's eyes in paradise
+          With your earth-tears. He mourns your splendor paled,--
+          Though 't must be beautiful to the last tint,
+          As sunset clouds that bear the heart of day
+          Into the night.
+
+ Asef.                    You but offend my grief.
+          Sir, keep your flattery for her you love!
+
+ Char.    I flatter thee? It is not possible!
+          Who dares to add fire to the sun, or bring
+          The Spring a flower? Be angry if you will.
+          The morning's eye is not more glorious
+          Rising above a storm! I flatter thee!
+          When but to praise thee as thou art would put
+          A blush on Poesy that ne'er has rhymed
+          As I would speak! E'en thy defects would make
+          Another fair, and were they merchantable
+          Women would buy thy faults to adorn themselves!
+          O, sweet--
+
+ Asef.    (Shrinking in horror)
+                      What do you mean?
+
+ Char.    (Seizing her hands)           You know!
+          O, all my life has been but dreams of you,
+          And when I saw you first, my love!--my love!--
+          As lightning makes the midnight landscape speak
+          The language of the day, your beauty flashed
+          O'er all my years and made their meaning clear!
+          'Twas you made sweet the song of every bird,
+          'Twas you I found in every book I loved,
+          'Twas you that gave a soul to every star!
+          I can not speak it! Kiss me once--but once--
+          And you will understand!
+
+ Asef.                              What thing is this?
+          It is not man, for man respecteth sorrow,
+          Nor brute, for it doth speak!
+
+ Char.                                  O look not down!
+          Thou canst not guard thee! Every silken sweep
+          Of thine eyes' soft defence but whets assault!
+          You shall not go! You are the element
+          In which I breathe! Go from me and I fall
+          A lifeless thing! Aseffa, pity me!
+          'Tis I who die, not you! (Drops her hands and kneels)
+                                    O blame me not
+          That I must worship here--
+
+ Asef.                                Ah, Rafael,
+          I'll live an hour to pray this wrong away
+          Before I meet thine eyes! (Goes. Charles grasps her cloak)
+                                    Beast! Claw me not!
+
+          (Goes in. Charles gazes after her in a bewildered way.
+          Tries to steady himself, and goes into theatre by main
+          entrance)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Within the theatre. Gay decorations. Part of stage
+shown, on which chorus is assembled. The Emperor and Empress in
+royal box. Imperial cabinet and friends in boxes adjoining. Part
+of pit shown, filled with brightly dressed people.
+
+ Max.     (To Carlotta)
+          O, this is welcome! Are you not happy now?
+          There's not a wrinkle on these smiling brows
+          Where discontent may write her annals dark!
+          My empire now is fixed, and strength and love
+          Are gathering to my side. I can not put
+          My hand out but 'tis clasped by some new friend.
+
+ Car.     And true?
+
+ Max.               And true. You are too fearful, sweet.
+
+ Car.     And you too trustful.
+
+ Max.                           Nay, we can not trust
+          Too much. Brutus spoke noblest when he said
+          'My heart doth joy that yet in all my life
+          I found no man but he was true to me.'
+          And I would hope as much.
+
+ Car.     (Aside)                   None, none are true!
+          Even I am false who fear to speak my fears
+          And ease his own when I should quicken them!
+
+          (Chorus from stage)
+
+                  Hail, ye royal pair, O hail!
+                  Like two souls within one star
+                  May your heavenly light ne'er fail.
+                  Empress and great Emperor!
+
+                  Hail to thee who ruleth mild
+                  As the manger-cradled child!
+                  Hail to her who long may be
+                  Guardian of us and thee!
+
+                  Hail, O hail, ye pair divine!
+                  As two souls within one star
+                  May your light forever shine,
+                  Empress and great Emperor!
+
+          (Estrada appears on stage in front of chorus)
+
+ Est.     Great Majesties, forgive our feeble welcome.
+          We are in all things spotted and imperfect
+          Save in affection for your Highnesses.
+
+ Max.     (Rising) No, no! My friend--and friends--had you not hearts
+          That turn to virtue as the flowers to sun,
+          We had not made such progress to an hour
+          When all the Empire wears the smile of peace,
+          And we may rest like Love with folded arms
+          Round his desire.
+
+ Est.                       'Tis you have led us, sire.
+          Pardon this mockery of what we'd do
+          To celebrate this day had we but means.
+          We shout thy name, but not above the clouds;
+          We send up fires, but lightnings higher reach:
+          We have adorned the city and ourselves,
+          But India and the sea keep back the pearls
+          We would pour here!
+
+ Max.                         Enough--and more, my friends.
+          O, far too much! None mourn now but the gods
+          Who are made indigent by this display
+          Of wealth and joy!
+
+ Est.     (Making low obeisance) We thank your majesty.
+          This land shall e'er be called the happy land,
+          And he who rules it--
+
+ Asef.    (Stepping wildly from chorus) Prince of Murderers!
+          The happy land! O land where widows' cries
+          Choke Heaven, and mothers' tears make each new day
+          A flood!
+
+ Mir.               Guards there! Take her away! The guards!
+
+ Max.     No! Let her stay! We'll answer her!
+
+ Mir.                                         My lord--
+
+ Max.     Madam, we seek your country's love.
+
+ Asef.    How do you seek it? By killing her dear sons!
+          Setting your tigers loose among her children!
+          Mejia from your very breast makes fire
+          On patriot virtue! Dupin wets his teeth
+          By day and night in infant and mother's blood!
+          Maximilian,
+          In brave Trevino's name, Salazar's name,
+          In name of all as noble and as dear
+          To Mexico as they, who daily die
+          Beneath their country's flag the death of dogs,
+          Shot down by your black law--signed by your hand--
+          In name of him as dear to me as thou
+          To that proud woman who shall know what 'tis
+          To clasp a ghost where throbbed her living love,--
+          I tell thee--die!
+
+          (Leaps from stage to Emperor's box attempting to stab him.
+          As she leaps Carlotta springs before the Emperor)
+
+ Car.                       This heart--not that!
+
+          (Aseffa drops her dagger and stands bewildered. An officer
+          seizes her. Utter confusion in theatre. Maximilian goes
+          onto the stage. Silence)
+
+ Max.                                             My friends,--
+          All you who love me see me here unhurt,
+          And you who love me not, if any's here,
+
+          (Cries of "none, none!")
+
+          Take aim now as you will.
+
+          (Cries of "No! no! no! no!")
+
+ A Voice.
+          Long live the Emperor! Maximilian!
+
+ Max.     Then if you love me, friends, I beg you'll leave
+          This place of song and go to the Cathedral.
+          There pray for me to Him who spared my life,
+          And, if you will, pray that He yet may spare it
+          To work His will and yours.
+
+          (Crowd goes out silently)
+
+ Mar.     (To Labastida)              That was well done.
+
+ Lab.     Sincerity is once a diplomat.
+
+ Car.     (To Princess Salm-Salm)
+          Princess, take this poor creature to your care.
+
+          (Officer releases Aseffa, who goes out as in a dream
+          with Prince and Princess Salm-Salm and several ladies)
+
+ Mar.     (Approaching Maximilian) Your Majesty, let me congratulate--
+          Ill, sire?
+
+ Max.                 Sick, sick, O sick of compliments!
+          If I've a friend here let me hear the truth!
+          What did that creature mean? The truth, I say!
+          (Silence) You, Miramon? Lopez? (Silence) Trevino's dead?
+
+ Lop.     He is.
+
+ Max.             And Rafael Mendorez?
+
+ Lop.                                   Dead.
+          The woman is his widow.
+
+ Max.                             Oh!... And this!
+          (Taking out message)
+          This from Dupin! 'All quiet in Savarro.'
+          It means--
+
+ Lop.                 The town is ashes.
+
+ Max.                                     O God! O God!
+          You ministers! Ay, ministers of hell!
+          Didst think ye served the devil?
+
+ Est.                                       O, my lord--
+
+ Max.     No friend! Not one! Charles! Charles! you must have known!
+          These foreign hearts have their excuse, but you--
+          The tower of confidence between us two,
+          Built part by part by faithful mason hours,
+          Is shaken to atoms!
+
+ Char.                        I will build it o'er!
+
+ Max.     First will the wind-strewn rose upgather all
+          Her petals from the dust, and cheek by cheek,
+          Hang them new-smiling on the nodding bough!
+
+ Mir.     Your Majesty, what we have done was done
+          To save our country and your beloved life.
+          Your noble heart was blind to your great danger,
+          And 'twas our duty and our work of love
+          To save you from your fatal tenderness.
+
+ Lop.     (Kneeling) O gracious sovereign, had I but known
+          You did not know, I would have dared the wrath
+          Of all the court, and spoken to you but truth!
+
+ Max.     (Lifting him up)
+          And 'twas your tongue at last that broke the silence,
+          I must forgive you.
+
+ Mar.                         By your necessity,
+          Your Majesty, we may all hope for pardon.
+          Juarez, encouraged by the United States,
+          Is roused again to war. We have appealed
+          For compromise and terms of friendly union,
+          But his one answer for us all is--death!
+          Yet are we faithful to you, sire.
+
+ Max.                                       O Heaven!
+          What poisonous opiate have you fed me with
+          And called it peace? But war is not the worst!
+          Oh, Miramon, did you not swear to me
+          All prisoners taken by that cruel law
+          Should be reported day or night to me
+          That I might pardon or remit their sentence?
+
+ Mir.     O, sir, you knew not your extremity,
+          Nor could you know it though we told it you,
+          The hearts of Mexicans once turned to hate
+          Are far too deep for sincere eyes to pierce.
+          But I thank God we knew the danger, sire,
+          And struck the serpent raised even at your life.
+          When you, all gentleness, could not have given
+          The necessary blow. Ay, God be thanked, although
+          You cast me from your heart. 'T will be my comfort
+          To know I served you better than you dreamed.
+          And 'tis the penalty of over-love
+          To suffer by the hand that (kneels and
+            kisses Maximilian's hand) it would kiss!
+
+ Max.     Must I forgive him, Heaven?
+
+ Lab.                                 Ay, sir, you must,
+          For his deceit was but the greater truth
+          That served your blind necessity.
+
+ Est.                                       O, sir,
+          Do not desert us! If now the Empire falls
+          'Tis death to all that have been true to you.
+          Juarez will give no quarter to your friends.
+
+ Max.     The Liberals advance?
+
+ Mar.                           Each day they're nearer;
+          And towns and provinces fall by the way.
+
+ Berz.    Without you, sir, our cause will die in blood,
+          And Mexico be but a grave for those
+          Who've loved and served you!
+
+ Mar.                                   The United States has ranked
+          Full sixty thousand men on our frontiers,--
+          But we have France--
+
+ Max.                           I am awake! At last!
+          From now no man shall risk his life for me
+          But I take equal chance with him! Ah, this
+          Is war, not murder!
+
+ Mar.                         You will lead our troops?
+
+ Max.     I will.
+
+ Mar.             Then Mexico is saved! The way
+          To win the southern hearts is but to trust them.
+          Leave at your capital the foreign troops
+          And lead your native soldiers 'gainst the foe!
+
+ Car.     (Aside) No! Never! Never! Alone with those dark hearts!
+
+          (Enter Marshal Bazaine with envoy from France,
+          Comte de St. Sueveur, Marquis de Gallifet, and General
+          Castlenau)
+
+ Baz.     My lord, we bring new messages from France.
+
+ Gen. Cast.
+          Your majesty, we beg your gracious pardon
+          For this unseemly pressure.
+
+ Max.                                 You have it, sir.
+          What says Napoleon?
+
+ Cast.    He greets you, sire, with my unworthy tongue,
+          And sends this letter. (Maximilian reads)
+
+ Max.                             My eyes, I think, turn wizards
+          And conjure 'gainst the truth that must be here.
+          For I read false. (Puzzled) What does he mean? Not this--
+
+ Baz.     My lord, my letters make the import clear.
+          I have instructions here to counsel you
+          To make immediate abdication.
+
+ Max.                                   No!
+
+ Car.     What? Abdication?
+
+ Baz.                       Ay! That is the word.
+
+ Car.     A word for fear and weakness, not for strength,
+          And Maximilian is as strong as France
+          While great Napoleon respects his oath!
+          His troops are ours--
+
+ Baz.                           Nay, princess--
+
+ Mir.     (Fiercely)                            Her Majesty!
+
+ Baz.     (Sneers) You prize the feather when the cap is lost?
+          (To the Empress) Pardon a slipping tongue, your Majesty.
+          Those troops you speak of go with me to France.
+          Such is my order--such the firm demand
+          Of the United States.
+
+ Car.                           Is France a province
+          Of the United States? Napoleon
+          Page, lackey, footboy to America?
+          Is she an Empire, he an Emperor?
+          Or have we dreamed he is Napoleon?
+
+ Max.     (Recovered from his bewilderment)
+          Withdraw his troops! He can not--dare not do it!
+          'T would blister history's page to set it down,
+          And 'tis his burning wish to be the star
+          Of human chronicles. I'll not believe it,
+          Though all my senses brand confirming yea
+          Upon my mind. O shout it in my ears,
+          And let me see the troops go marching out,
+          Still I'll believe it is my eyes and ears
+          That mutiny, not France turned traitor!
+
+ Baz.     Your Majesty, you must believe the truth,
+          And make you ready for a swift departure.
+          'T will not be safe here let a moon go by.
+
+ Max.     If danger's here, then here I stay to share it.
+          Dost think I'll leave my friends to die alone
+          While I by flight dishonor Majesty?
+
+ Baz.     'Tis death to stay. You would not be so mad.
+
+ Mir.     Hail to our new-born king! New-born thou art
+          Unto our love. Nay, we did love before,
+          But now we'll worship thee.
+
+ Car.                                 Napoleon!
+          You shall not do this monstrous thing! You shall not!
+
+ Baz.     The crown of France doth ask consent of none.
+
+ Car.     I'll go to him and say such words that from
+          His shame-marked brow his outraged crown will fall
+          In horror. I will go! Take out the troops,
+          Bazaine. Ay, take them out! He will be glad
+          To send them back and purchase with his blood
+          Redemption from such shame. He'll empty France
+          To do it! I will go. But I'll not kneel.
+          A thousand years my blood has run through kings,
+          And he's the _third_ Napoleon!
+
+          (Sinks, exhausted with emotion. Ladies attend her)
+
+ Mir.                                     The traitor!
+          We have no need of him! To France, Bazaine,
+          And tell your Emperor our Emperor
+          Needs not his fickle strength to stand upon!
+          Sire, we have men, and money in our banks--
+
+ Lab.     A mighty church whose power is untold
+          If you restore her rights, as now we hope,
+          And thus united we shall defy the world!
+
+ Max.     And Heaven, too? For that is what we do
+          When we set up the church in her old wrongs.
+          Nay, keep your aid, and I will keep my soul.
+
+ Lop.     Your virtuous angel strives to make you god.
+
+ Max.     No, but to keep me honest.
+
+ Mar.     (Aside to Lab.)             Yield to him.
+          'Tis not the hour to cast him off.
+
+ Lab.                                         My lord,
+          Your virtue conquers, and unto your hands
+          I yield the power o' the church.
+
+ Max.                                       I thank your grace,
+          Nor for myself, but Mexico.
+
+ Baz.                                 I go to France.
+          What message have you for Napoleon?
+
+ Max.     Tell him that he has placed me here between
+          Death and dishonor--and my choice is made.
+
+          (Bazaine and French ambassadors turn slowly and go out)
+
+ Max.     (Quietly to Miramon) We'll join you at the door.
+
+          (Exeunt all but Carlotta and Maximilian. He holds out his
+          arms, and she goes silently to his embrace)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene I: Queretaro. Plaza La Cruz before church and convent. Grey
+light before dawn. Occasional distant firing of guns. Maximilian
+comes out of church and walks about plaza.
+
+ Max.     Carlotta! Where dost thou pray to-night? In all
+          Our fearful scanning of prophetic heavens
+          No swart star showed us this--our separation.
+          Thou wert the all of me, the breath, the soul!
+          Nature conceived thee when her blood was young,
+          And May was in her spirit, but stayed thy birth
+          Till Time had taught her skill in all perfections!
+          ... I will not weep.... Yon stars have memories too,
+          And tell old tales of grandsire suns that shook
+          Their locks and fell ere they were young who now
+          Are eld of all!... (Walks) To lie so low.... O man,
+          Who in the heavens carvest out redemption,
+          Laying thy golden streets in very skies,
+          Making the stars but eyets of thy port,
+          Must thou compact thee to a little earth,
+          Displace some few small tenants of the sod,
+          And find thou 'st room enough?... (Looks up) City of dream!
+          Time's far ghost inn! Eternity's mirage!
+          Desire's dim temple fashioned out of prayer,
+          Builded and jointured by no carpenter
+          But captious Fancy!... O Carlotta, wife!
+          Thou wert my Christian heart! Faith, faith, my God!
+          Death to the unbeliever is to land
+          Upon a coast dumb in the moonless dark,
+          Where no hands wave a welcome, no eyes shine
+          With promise of sweet hours, no voices call
+          The greeting that makes every shore a home.
+          (Listens) My officers! I can not see them yet.
+          (Goes in. Enter Colonel Lopez in close talk with Lieutenant
+          Garza who is disguised as an Imperial officer)
+
+ Garza.   I'm satisfied.
+
+ Lopez.   This hill is the key to the city.
+
+ Gar.     Yes.
+
+ Lop.     And yours on terms we have considered.
+
+ Gar.     Here's Escobedo's guarantee. (Gives paper)
+
+ Lop.     This to my pocket, and Queretaro to the Liberals!
+
+ Gar.     'Tis heavy business. You do it lightly, colonel.
+
+ Lop.     The world's a feather.
+
+ Gar.     If we but think so.
+
+ Lop.     At dawn my troops are yours.
+
+ Gar.     And you command the Empress' regiment.
+
+ Lop.     Yes. The pick of Maximilian's soldiers.
+
+ Gar.     One other question. The southern gate--Hist!
+
+ Lop.     The nuns. (They draw aside and converse. Two nuns come out
+          of convent and cross plaza)
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          The good Emperor is not out yet. He is often here long
+          before day walking and thinking, 'Tis then, they say, his
+          mind is on the blessed Empress who has gone across the sea
+          to get help for him. By day he never speaks her name, but
+          thinks only of our poor country.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Hark! The enemy's guns! They can not reach us.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          Can not? A shell broke here yesterday. The Emperor stood
+          just there.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Holy mother! What did his Majesty do?
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          He smiled, and said he might have chosen his place
+          better; then moved to the very spot where the ball had
+          burst, as though he hoped another would follow it.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Blessed virgin! Would he die?
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          I'm sure he would not live. Come, sister. Ah, we have
+          but one loaf this morning.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Let us be glad we can give that,--for many are hungry.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          Many are starved--dead.
+
+ 2d Nun.  But the good Emperor! It is so sad to think of him
+          without food.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          He will give this to his officers. Yesterday I saw
+          Prince Salm-Salm and the general Miramon each with a bit
+          of white bread that can not be found in all Queretaro
+          outside of our convent.
+
+ 2d Nun.  The good man! Holy Mother bless and keep him! (They go
+          into the Cruz)
+
+ Lop.     What will you do with Maximilian?
+
+ Gar.     Make a Liberal of him.
+
+ Lop.     Ha! How?
+
+ Gar.     Shoot him!
+
+ Lop.     Shoot him?
+
+ Gar.     Yes. The grave's the great republican senate house,--where
+          each man has the floor.
+
+ Lop.     (Laughing) And you will introduce him!
+
+ Gar.     Hark!
+
+ Lop.     The Emperor! Go! (Exit Garza. Enter Maximilian and Prince
+          Salm-Salm)
+
+ Max.     (Greeting Lopez affectionately) You're early out, my boy.
+
+ Lop.     Your majesty, I am the officer of the day.
+
+ Max.     Yes,--I remember. Who was your friend?
+
+ Lop.     Ramirez, of Dupin's regiment.
+
+ Salm.    Ramirez! He's much changed if that was he.
+
+ Lop.     Shall I call him back, your majesty, that the prince may
+          convince himself that his memory of faces is not
+          infallible?
+
+ Max.     Nay, my trusted two! (Puts an arm about each) Would you
+          might love each other as I love you both. My prince, whose
+          courage is the very heart of my army, and my young hussar,
+          dear for your own sake--dearer still because--she trusted
+          you!
+
+          (Blasio, the Emperor's secretary, comes out of the Cruz)
+
+ Blasio.  Your majesty, I have finished the letters.
+
+ Max.     Good. There will be no more to write. (Stumbles over
+          something) What's this?
+
+ Blasio.  A fallen Christ.
+
+ Max.     You mean a fallen figure of the risen Christ.
+
+ Lop.     Here is the crown of thorns.
+
+ Max.     Give it to me. (Holds it meditatively) How well it suits
+          my fortunes!
+
+ Salm.    Nay--
+
+ Max.     Ay, better than my golden one. (Gives it to Blasio) Hang
+          it above my bed. My Queretaro crown!
+
+ Salm.    Do not, your majesty!
+
+ Max.     (To Blasio) Take it. (Exit Blasio) Why, prince, 'tis
+          something to have won a crown. My first was given me.
+          (Firing and falling of shells)
+
+ Salm.    I beg you, sire, to move your quarters to a safer station.
+          This is death at any moment!
+
+ Max.     Death at any moment--(Regretfully) And I have been here
+          sixty days.
+
+ Lop.     Courage, sire! Marquez will come!
+
+ Max.     (Eagerly) Has there been news?
+
+ Lop.     Not yet, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     Not yet! What does it mean? You heard him take the oath to
+          bring me help or die. 'Twas here he swore--before us all.
+          Vowed to return with troops in fifteen days! Ah, he is
+          dead.
+
+ Salm.    No, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     But if he lives?
+
+ Salm.    He is a traitor.
+
+ Max.     You heard his oath--
+
+ Salm.    A traitor's oath!
+
+ Lop.     He's true, your majesty. His messengers are murdered.
+
+ Salm.    He's false!
+
+ Max.     But that means--death.
+
+ Salm.    Or flight.
+
+ Max.     Not flight!
+
+          (Enter Miramon and Mendez) You're welcome, gentlemen. Your
+          eyes bring news.
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty, Metz has returned.
+
+ Max.                                       At last!
+          News of Marquez! He comes! I know he comes!
+
+ Men.     O, sire,--
+
+ Max.                 The faithful Metz! Where is he?
+
+ Metz.    (Entering)                                  Sire! (Kneels)
+
+ Max.     Rise, sir.
+
+ Metz.                O pardon me, your majesty!
+          I bring but wintry news.
+
+ Max.                               Marquez--
+
+ Metz.                                        Is false.
+
+ Max.     Oh, no, no, no! He comes! I know he comes!
+
+ Metz.    He's leagued with Labastida,--for the church
+          Deserts you too.
+
+ Max.     The church gone with him! No! no! I can't believe it!
+
+ Metz.    You do not doubt me!
+
+ Max.                           Not you! But in my ear
+          The tale turns miracle! And I must doubt,
+          Though on your tongue 'tis truth!
+
+ Metz.                                      'Tis truth indeed!
+          The troops he was to bring you from the city,
+          He led for his own glory against Diaz,
+          Thinking to make himself the conqueror
+          And president of Mexico.
+
+ Max.                               My troops!
+          What then?
+
+ Metz.                Porfirio Diaz routed them
+          To the last man. Marquez himself escaped
+          Alone,--fled unattended from the field.
+
+ Max.     My troops! my troops!... And this is friendship! O God,
+          Give me but enemies!
+
+ Salm.                          Your Majesty--
+
+ Max.     Who calls me majesty? There's none in me.
+          I am a riven oak whose leaf-light friends
+          Fly with misfortune's Autumn. (Steps away, bowed in grief)
+
+ Salm.    (Following him)               I love you, sire.
+
+ Lop.     (Eagerly) So do we all! Your majesty, believe us!
+
+ Mir.     Canst not spare one who have so many true?
+
+ Max.     Forgive me, friends. This treachery's the night
+          Wherein your hearts of gold beat out like stars!
+
+ Lop.     My life is yours, my lord!
+
+ Max.                                 Thanks, dear Lopez.
+          (Takes his hand)
+          In friendship lies the joy superlative,
+          And nearest Heaven. We touch God's hand whene'er
+          We clasp a friend's.
+                                ... But now we must take counsel.
+
+ Salm.    No, sire, we must take action. Pardon me,
+          But our sole hope of safety lies in flight.
+
+ Max.     What! Leave the town to sack and ruin? No!
+          Desert the poor inhabitants, so long our friends?
+          And all our wounded, sick and dying? Never!
+
+ Salm.    But if you stay, my lord, you sacrifice
+          The living with the dying.
+
+ Max.                                 Oh, Heaven, Heaven!
+
+ Lop.     Your Majesty, this counsel is not wise.
+          It is not honor!
+
+ Salm.                      Honor will lead the flight!
+          To stay were crime! Sire, give the order now.
+          At once! The firing to the north has ceased.
+          All night I've reconnoitered. The way is clear
+          For the last time. We'll arm the citizens
+          To cover flight, and in an hour--
+
+ Lop.                                       We'll be
+          Attacked on every side! A madman's counsel!
+
+ Salm.    O, sire, lose not a moment!
+
+ Mir.                                 Lopez is right.
+          To fly from death is not dishonor, but who
+          That values honor throws away one chance
+          Of victory?
+
+ Salm.                There is no chance. Not one!
+          My word is fly, and I'm no coward, sire.
+
+ Max.     You've led our troops where every track was blood,
+          And in the throat of battle, hand to hand,
+          Have fought with Death! We know you'll dare a fight
+          As far as any man while there's a hope
+          Of victory.
+
+ Salm.                But I'll not make my folly
+          The captain to defeat.
+
+ Lop.                             'Tis not defeat!
+          The Liberals are at their fortune's ebb.
+          They're sick with fear, and tremble in their rags.
+
+ Mendez.  Let's fight it out, my lord!
+
+ Max.                                   With starving men?
+
+ Lop.     We're starving, but our foes are starved.
+          Our ammunition fails, but theirs has failed--
+
+          (A shell breaks near them)
+
+ Salm.    That, sir, unspeaks your words.
+
+ Lop.                                     Not so. One shell
+          But tells how few they are, for yesterday
+          They fell in numbers. And to the north, you say,
+          The guns are silent.
+
+ Salm.                          Sire, a moment lost
+          May mean the loss of all.
+
+          (Enter Dupin with two prisoners. Lopez goes to meet him)
+
+ Dupin.   What did you mean by your infernal order to bring these
+          men here? Don't you know old Saint-face won't let them be
+          shot?
+
+ Lop.     Keep quiet. They are my captives, not yours.
+
+ Dup.     I've plugged just ninety-eight this week, and it's too bad
+          not to make an even hundred.
+
+ Max.     (Approaching) Prisoners?
+
+ Dup.     Deserters, your majesty. They have confessed it. I've
+          brought them here for sentence. Will you have them shot at
+          once, or wait till sunrise?
+
+ Max.     None shall be shot. Not one. How often must we say it? If
+          things go well here, good; if not, still is my conscience
+          clear of blood. (To deserter) You've been with the enemy?
+
+ 1st Des.
+          Yes, curse the day! Your pardon, blessed majesty!
+
+ Max.     How fare our foes?
+
+ 1st Des.
+          The best of them as bad as the worst with us.
+
+ Lop.     You note that, prince?
+
+ 2d Des.  We have a little food, but they have none. The country
+          is eaten bare. Diaz is trying to reach them with supplies,
+          but at present there isn't enough meal in ten miles of the
+          army to make an ash-cake.
+
+ Lop.     More proof for the prince, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     Their powder fails?
+
+ 2d Des.  Yes, sire. 'T would be all the same if it didn't, for
+          they've hardly strength left to stand on their toes and
+          fire the guns.
+
+ Max.     Poor fellows!
+
+ Lop.     You can not doubt, my lord, that we shall win with the
+          next assault.
+
+ Mir.     Cast fear to the winds, your majesty!
+
+ Salm.    Who spoke of fear?
+
+ Mir.     Not I! Fear is the devil's magic-glass
+          He holds before us to swell out our vision,
+          Turn hares to lions, stones a lamb might skip
+          To beetling cliffs that ne'er knew human foot,
+          And slightest obstacles, that do but make
+          The mind's fair exercise and moral zest,
+          To barriers, high as heaven, to success!
+
+ Lop.     (Sneering) And Juarez' men of rags to glittering armies!
+
+ Max.     We'll hazard battle.
+
+ Salm.                          I beg your majesty--
+
+ Max.     We know your courage, prince, for it is writ
+          In many a scar; but you are wrong in this.
+
+ Lop.     You'll hear no more of flight, my lord?
+
+ Max.                                             No more.
+
+ Lop.     Then I'll to duty, knowing all is well.
+
+                                                  (Exit Lopez)
+
+ Dupin.   (Aside) And I'll go find a breakfast for my little
+          man-eater. (Clapping his weapon) There's never anything to
+          be done around his saintship. (Exit)
+
+ Mir.     In half an hour?
+
+ Max.     Yes. The plans will then be ready. (Turns to go in) You,
+          prince, with me. Though I've dismissed your head from
+          service, I still must have your heart. (Goes into church
+          with Salm-Salm)
+
+ Mir.     (To Mendez) What do you think of it?
+
+ Men.     Why, sir, I'd rather die fighting than running.
+          And there's a chance for us. The Liberals are beggared.
+          There's hardly a uniform in camp. If Marquez had kept
+          true, we should have saved the empire.
+
+ Mir.     Don't speak of him! Hell's throne is empty while he's on
+          earth!
+
+          (Exeunt Mendez and Mir.)
+
+ 1st Des.
+          Well, comrade, here's promotion fast enough. We that
+          were prisoners are captains of the field. Lead on!
+
+ 2d Des.  Be sure the Tigre is not around. He's got a long claw.
+          Ugh! I feel shaky yet.
+
+          (Exeunt. It grows lighter. Guard comes out of the Cruz and
+          takes station by door. Enter Princess Salm-Salm, Aseffa,
+          and women of Queretaro)
+
+ Princess S. (Excitedly)
+          Admit me to the emperor!
+
+ Guard.                             Your pardon.
+          He must not be disturbed.
+
+ Princess S.                        Oh, but he must!
+          The pity of it that he must!
+
+ Guard.                                 Nay, madam--
+
+ Princess S.
+          Admit us, sir, or I will beat the door!
+
+          (Maximilian comes to door)
+
+ Max.     Some trouble here? The princess! Always welcome!
+
+ Princess S.
+          But such unwelcome news, your majesty!
+          You know I've rooms at Senor Barrio's house.
+          I've long suspected him. Last night he lodged
+          Two men whose conference I overheard.
+          All was not clear, but part was clear enough.
+          One of your trusted officers is false,
+          And you to-day--this hour--will be betrayed
+          Unto your foes.
+
+ Max.                     Impossible!
+
+ Princess S.                          O, sire,
+          Be blind no longer. This lady heard the men
+          As I did. There's no doubt!
+
+ Lady.                                'Tis certain, sire,
+          That they were officers in the Liberal army,
+          And spoke of things that set me all aghast.
+
+ Max.     Good women, I thank you, but you are deceived.
+          There's not a man about me whose true face
+          Is not the table where fidelity
+          Writes him my own.
+
+ Princess S.                  O, sir, 'tis one whose hand
+          Is in your bosom.
+
+ Max.                       Nay--
+
+ Princess S.                      That much I know,
+          Though I know not his name.
+
+ Max.                                 Bold Miramon
+          Is staunch as death. Mendez would in his breast
+          Receive the bullet meant for me. Dupin
+          Has been too cruel to the enemy
+          To hope for life even at treason's price.
+          And Lopez is my own created love,
+          The Empress' guard,--the only Mexic heart
+          I've taken a very brother's to my own.
+
+ Princess S.
+          What shall I do? This moment you must fly!
+          Stand not, your majesty! 'T will be too late!
+
+          (Prince Salm-Salm comes to door)
+
+          Thank God, my husband! His majesty's betrayed!
+          You've never doubted me!
+
+ Prince Salm.                       Betrayed?
+
+ Max.                                         No, prince,--
+
+ Prince Salm.
+          I'll visit every post!
+
+ Princess S.                      You but lose time.
+
+          (The prince hurries out)
+
+          Oh God! Oh God!
+
+ Max.                     Sweet princess, be not troubled.
+          There is no cause.
+
+ Princess S.                  Ah, we are lost!
+
+          (The bells of the city begin to ring)
+
+ Max.                                           You hear?
+          The bells! The enemy has raised the siege!
+          O joyous news!
+
+ Princess S.              No, no, your majesty.
+          That is the traitor's signal of success.
+          Oh Heaven!
+
+ Max.                 What madness! 'Tis impossible!
+
+ Princess S.
+          Those bells proclaim that every Imperial post
+          Is in a Liberal's command. We're lost!
+
+          (Enter citizens and soldiers in confusion)
+
+ 1st Cit.
+          What mean the bells?
+
+ 2d Cit.                        That Escobedo's fled!
+
+ 3d Cit.  Marquez has come!
+
+ 1st Soldier.               No, no! The city's taken!
+
+ 2d Soldier.
+          Juarez is here! The Liberals are on us!
+
+          (Confused talking and shouts continue. Re-enter
+          Prince Salm-Salm)
+
+ Max.     What is it, prince?
+
+ Prince Salm.                 O dearest majesty--
+
+ Max.     The worst!
+
+ P Salm.              'Tis treachery. We are surrounded!
+
+ Max.     Those bells--
+
+ P Salm.                Ring out the enemy's success.
+          Each post is captained by a Liberal.
+
+ Max.     (Calmly to princess)
+          Forgive me. You were right.
+                (To Prince Salm-Salm) Who is the traitor?
+
+ P Salm.  Ask not, I beg you.
+
+ Max.                         His name!
+
+ P Salm.                                Lopez.
+
+ Max.                                           Lopez? (Staggers)
+          Unsay that word--and take my crown!
+
+ P Salm.                                      O, would
+          I could, your majesty! It is too true!
+
+ Max.     Lopez! Carlotta's chosen officer!
+          And heaped with favors high enough to make
+          A pyramid to faith!... Is this the world,
+          Or some strange fancy spinning in my eyes?
+
+ P Salm.  My dearest liege--
+
+ Max.                         Who would not leave a life
+          Where such things be, though death were sleep eternal?
+          ... Lead me 'mong shells and bayonets. But not
+          To kill. My God, there's blood enough been shed.
+          Bid all surrender. Let no more lives be lost.
+          Farewell, my prince.... Now for a friendly shell!--
+          Just here! (Striking his heart, rushes out)
+
+ Princess S.          O save him! I am safe! Go! go! (Exit Salm-Salm)
+
+ 1st Woman.
+          We shall all be butchered!
+
+ Aseffa.  Juarez is no butcher.
+
+ 2d Woman.
+          'Tis Escobedo leads,--and many have bled by him.
+
+ Aseffa.  Be not afraid. I know the Liberals.
+
+ Voices.  They come! they come!
+
+          (Miramon and Dupin rush in)
+
+ Mir.     Where is the Emperor?
+
+ Dup.     Emperor dunce-cap! We must look to our own skins.
+
+          (Enter a score of ragged Liberals led by Rafael. Aseffa
+          stares at him, speechless)
+
+ Mir.     Too late for that!
+
+ Raf.     You are our prisoners. (Liberals take Dupin and Miramon)
+
+ Soldiers.
+          Shoot them! Shoot them! Miramon and Dupin!
+          The butchers! The dogs!
+
+ Raf.     Hold! You are soldiers! Not murderers!
+
+ Dup.     (To soldiers) You rags and bones! Go wash and eat before
+          you touch a gentleman!
+
+ Sol.     You'll not be so nice to-morrow when the worms are at you!
+
+ Asef.    Raphael! (Flies to him)
+
+ Raf.     You here! O blessed fortune! My love! my love!
+
+ Asef.    O, is it true? You are alive! Alive!
+          I too am resurrected, for I was dead,
+          Slain with the news that you were murdered!
+
+ Raf.     I've news too bitter for so sweet a moment.
+          Ignacio bribed my guard--stood in my place--
+          And died.
+
+ Asef.    (Recoiling) You let him die for you?
+
+ Raf.                                           No, no!
+          He carefully deceived me. I thought he planned
+          His own escape with mine.
+
+ Asef.                              O noble friend!...
+          Juarez! He knows?
+
+ Raf.                       Not yet.
+
+ Asef.                                What grief for that
+          Great heart!... But you are here--my Rafael!
+
+ Raf.     By all these kisses--yes!
+
+ Asef.                              These are your lips--
+          Your eyes--your hands--alive! I hear your heart!
+          Your arms are round me, yet this is the earth!
+          My country and my husband safe!
+
+ Raf.                                     God gives
+          Some moments out of Heaven, and this is one!
+
+          (Enter a soldier)
+
+ Sol.     The Emperor is captured by Escobedo!
+
+ Princess S.
+          Not killed! not killed! Thank Heaven for that!
+
+ Sol.                                                   'Twas strange
+          To see him stand like this (folds his arms) among the shells!
+
+ Asef.    Now I could pity him, for he must die.
+
+ Princess S.
+          Die, woman! Die? You know not who he is!
+          Why all the outraged world would rise and raze
+          This devil's country from the face of earth
+          Were Maximilian slain! Let Juarez dare
+          To harm this son of kings and he will learn
+          His beggar's power is but an infant's breath!
+
+ Asef.    Good madam, you have been my noble friend.
+          I would not wound you, but would have you know
+          That better men than Maximilian
+          Have died for lesser crimes.
+
+          (Enter Juarez with soldiers. Dawn has gradually opened and
+          it is now broad sunlight)
+
+ Voices.                                Juarez! Juarez!
+          El Presidente! El Presidente!
+
+ Jua.                                   My men,
+          The town is ours, and with it Mexico.
+          Citizens of Queretaro. I give you back
+          More than your homes,--your liberated country.
+
+ Voices.  Long live the Republic! Liberty forever!
+
+          (Enter Escobedo)
+
+ Esc.     Your Excellency will see the prisoner?
+
+ Jua.     The illustrious duke? Ay, bring him here.
+
+ Esc.                                               He comes.
+
+          (Enter Maximilian under guard)
+
+ Jua.     Great duke, I grieve that I have cause for joy
+          To see you thus. What wishes would your grace
+          Prefer to us?
+
+ Max.                   I have but one request,
+          Your excellency. If more blood must be spilt,
+          Let it be mine alone.
+
+ Jua.                           We grant it, sir,
+          With two exceptions justice doth demand.
+          Dupin and Miramon must die with you.
+          Dupin, who put to most ignoble death
+          The noblest prisoners of righteous war.
+          Dark Miramon, whose cowardly ambition
+          Has sunk his country in her own dear blood,
+          And would do so again did life permit
+          Him opportunity. And you, my lord,
+          Who signed the foulest, most inhuman law
+          Writ down since Roman Sulla's hand grew cold.
+
+ Princess S.
+          O spare him! Spare him, sir! He was deceived
+          By treacherous ministers!
+
+ Jua.                               His ministers
+          Were but his many hands, and for their deeds
+          His heart must answer.
+
+ Princess S.                      O could you know that heart!
+
+ Max.     Dear lady, peace.
+
+ Princess S.                Beloved majesty,
+          I speak for her who prays beyond the sea.
+          ... O, sir, you can not mean that he must die!
+          Help me, Aseffa! Help me plead for him!
+          Does not your Rafael live?
+
+ Asef.                                He lives because
+          Ignacio is dead. (Juarez starts) I must be just.
+
+ Princess S.
+          What has a woman's heart to do with justice?
+          'Tis mercy is its heavenly quality!
+
+ Jua.     Is this thing true? My boy.... Speak, Rafael.
+          ... Tears in your eyes. You need not speak. My boy ...
+          Ignacio.... Unto God I give thee!...
+
+ Princess S.                                    'Tis right
+          That they who would be gods to others' woe
+          Should be proved human by their own.
+
+ Jua.     (Not hearing her)                     And this
+          Is what so many hearts have borne since first
+          The Austrian came.
+
+ Princess S.                  O mercy, mercy, sir!
+          By your own woe show pity unto those
+          Whose hearts must bleed if Maximilian dies!
+          Be merciful! These tears of mine are but
+          The first few drops of the unbounded tide
+          That weeping as the sea weeps round the world
+          Shall drink thy hated land if this good man
+          Dies by your word! Be Christ, not man, and spare him!
+
+ Juarez.  Madam, it is the people and the law
+          Demand this expiation, not Juarez.
+          I grieve to see you on your knees before me,
+          But did each queen of Europe--ay, and king,--
+          Kneel in your place, I could not spare that life.
+
+          (Silence. Sobs. Juarez signs to Escobedo, who leads
+          prisoners away. Dupin's broad hat is pulled low. Miramon
+          steps proudly. At exit Maximilian turns and salutes the
+          people)
+
+ Max.     Mexicans! Long live Mexico!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT V.
+
+
+Scene I: Audience chamber, the Tuileries. Louis Napoleon alone.
+
+ Lou.     Succeed or fail! However men may run
+          The goal is marked. Yet will we race with Fate
+          In forgone match. Some free of foot and hand,
+          Some stumbling with huge empires on our backs
+          Less certain than the overburdened ant
+          Housing a winter crumb.... Victoire!
+
+          (Enter Secretary)
+
+ Sec.                                           My lord.
+
+ Lou.     If any dispatch from the West arrives
+          Bring it at once.
+
+ Sec.                       Yes, sire. (Exit)
+
+ Lou.                                   America!
+          Thou strange, new power where each man is a king,
+          I have obeyed thy will. Pulled down my empire,
+          Built up that France might the Atlantic stride
+          And stand firm-footed in two worlds. This slap
+          Upon the cheek imperial insults
+          All monarchy, yet Europe shrugs and smiles,
+          When she should blush to ruddy rage of war.
+          ... The West must go ... but here I'll be supreme.
+          Austria and Prussia I urge again to conflict,
+          And promise aid to each, but in my dream
+          They both are doomed and France shall reign alone.
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.   Your majesty, the Marechal Bazaine.
+
+ Lou.     Bazaine! Admit him.
+
+          (Exit Chamberlain)
+
+                              'Tis penance night with us,
+          And this man is the mirror of our conscience,
+          Showing its foulest spots.
+
+          (Enter Bazaine)
+
+ Baz.                                 Sire, I salute you.
+          Now Paris is the star that all eyes seek.
+          The Exposition draws the world to you,
+          Who glitter here as you were made for heaven.
+
+ Lou.                                                   Ay,
+          Here we would shine that none may see our star
+          I' the West grow dark!... Now Maximilian?
+
+ Baz.     He will be shot.
+
+ Lou.                       No jests! I ask you, sir,
+          What terms he may arrange for freedom.
+
+ Baz.                                             None.
+
+ Lou.     You speak not to a fool.
+
+ Baz.                               I trust not, sire.
+
+ Lou.     You know the Mexicans. Tell me the truth.
+
+ Baz.     I know the Mexicans. He will be shot.
+
+ Lou.     God, no! That noble man!
+
+ Baz.                               Pray, sir, what fate
+          Had you in mind for Maximilian
+          When finding him too true to Mexico
+          For your proud aims, you sent such covered word
+          To one Bazaine he could but read therein
+          A revolution and the Emperor's fall?
+
+ Lou.     I would have spared his life.
+
+ Baz.     (Taking out paper)            Then what means this?
+          (Reads)
+          'France weeps no death that brings her better fortune.'
+
+ Lou.     You'd spy a warrant in the alphabet
+          Did you but wish to find one! Think you that
+          Meant--death?
+
+ Baz.     (Closer)      I know it.
+
+ Lou.                               What dare you?
+
+ Baz.                                               Anything--
+          With this safe in my pocket. (Puts up paper)
+
+ Lou.                                   Beware, Bazaine!
+
+ Baz.     When one so mighty as your Majesty
+          Is my protector?
+
+ Lou.                       You--
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.                           The Count von Ostein
+          Beseeches word with you.
+
+ Lou.                               He's welcome to it.
+
+          (Exit Chamberlain)
+
+          Adieu, le marechal.
+
+ Baz.                         My lord--
+
+ Lou.                                   Adieu,
+          Le marechal.                          (Exit Bazaine)
+
+                                    Prussia's ambassador.
+          Now for our role of cheat and crowned dissembler.
+          O for a throne where Truth might keep her head!
+
+          (Enter the Prussian Minister)
+
+          Welcome, my lord.
+
+ Prus.                      Most gracious majesty,
+          The foreign ministers have come in body
+          To speak congratulations and confirm
+          The triumph of the Exposition.
+
+ Lou.     They have our truest thanks. But first, my lord,
+          A word in private with you. Is 't Prussia's wish
+          That we withhold our aid from Mexico?
+
+ Prus.    A question, sire. You know that Austria threatens.
+          Is France in this the friend or enemy
+          To Prussia? There's not an inch of middle ground
+          To stand on. If our foe, then pour your strength
+          To Mexico. If friend, keep it at home,
+          Ready for Prussia's need.
+
+ Lou.                               To be your friend
+          May cost some blood to France.
+
+ Prus.                                    I've heard it said
+          The left bank of the Rhine is a fair country,
+          And worth a little blood.
+
+ Lou.                               Enough, my lord.
+          Let Prussia know she has a friend in France,
+          And with your sanction cover our retreat
+          From Mexico.
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.                 Pardon, your majesty.
+          The Empress of Mexico begs audience.
+
+ Lou.     Carlotta? No!
+
+ Chamb.                 She presses urgently
+          To enter.
+
+ Lou.               Here?... We sent our word to her
+          At Miramar!... And yet--she comes--she's here.
+          ... Admit the deputation, and summon, too,
+          Our Empress.
+
+ Chamb.                 The Empress comes. (Enter Eugenie attended.
+          Exit Chamberlain. Enter guards)
+
+ Eug.                                       I hear the ministers
+          Have come to us with state congratulations,
+          And though unbidden, I'll not leave my chair--
+          The co-seat of imperial dignity--
+          Vacant at such a time.
+
+ Lou.                             Welcome, Eugenie.
+          We were about to summon you.
+
+ Eug.                                   Thanks even
+          For tardy courtesy.
+
+ Lou.                         But we have more
+          Than compliments to hear. Carlotta waits
+          Our audience.
+
+ Eug.                   Carlotta! I can not see her! (Rises)
+
+ Lou.     Nay, it was you first cast ambitious eye
+          To Mexico. Now see the end.
+
+ Eug.                                 My lord--
+
+ Lou.     Be seated, madam.
+
+ Eug.                       You command me, sir?
+
+ Lou.     We do.
+
+ Eug.     (Going) Come, ladies!
+
+ Lou.     (To guards)           Let no one pass out!
+
+ Eug.     France, sir, shall know this outrage!
+
+ Lou.                                           When you wish
+          To make it known.
+
+          (Enter ambassadors, Austrian, Russian, Italian,
+          Belgian, and others)
+
+ Rus.                       Most glorious Majesty!
+
+ Belg.    Mighty France!
+
+ It.                      Italy's savior!
+
+ Aus.                                     Christendom's king!
+
+ Lou.     I thank you, my good lords; but we're too sad
+          To smile at compliments; Carlotta comes
+          To beg our power to uphold her throne,
+          Though Heaven has decreed her empire's fall.
+          We ask you hear our open clear defence,
+          And help set forth our duty, that the Empress
+          May see our wisdom through our tears.
+
+ It.                                            We'll lend
+          Your Majesty what voice we can.
+
+ Lou.                                     I thank you.
+          (Aside to Austrian)
+          My lord, a word. The Prussian talons creep
+          Toward Austria. France is your friend.
+
+ Aus.                                             O, sire!
+
+ Lou.     If you would have her strong pray that no sword
+          Of hers be lost in Mexico.
+
+ Aus.                                 I will,
+          My lord.
+
+          (Enter Carlotta, attended by Count Charles, Count
+          de Bombelles, her priest, and women. She goes to Louis
+          and would kneel. He takes her hand)
+
+ Lou.               An Empress must not kneel.
+
+ Car.                                           I'm still
+          An Empress, sir?
+
+ Lou.                       Once to have worn a crown
+          Is always to be queen.
+
+ Car.                             Sire, mock me not.
+          Didst mean no more than that?
+
+ Lou.                                   Lady, you come
+          To beg your empire?
+
+ Car.                         I do not beg, Napoleon.
+          I come to ask you keep your sacred oath,
+          But do not make a beggar of me, sir,
+          Who was a princess in my cradle.
+
+ Lou.                                       Nay,
+          Royal Carlotta, if beggar here must be,
+          See one in us who sue your gentle patience.
+          While strength was ours to give we gave it you,
+          But now is France grown needy of her troops,
+          With Europe surging to a conflict round her.
+
+ Car.     My lord--
+
+ Lou.               America turns baying on us.
+          Should we make war on one who twice o'ercame
+          Our island neighbors when she was but child
+          To what she now is grown?
+
+ Prus.                              Your majesty,
+          'T would be a folly for a clown, not king.
+
+ Car.     America? Easier to stop her now
+          Than it will be when she wears Mexico
+          Like sword at her right side. Austria, Prussia,
+          Strike you no more at neighbor throats, but come
+          And win a fight for God. Napoleon, come!
+          There lies a world that's worth the price of war.
+          Whose swelling breasts pour milk of paradise,
+          Whose marble mountains wait the carver's hand,
+          Whose valley arms ne'er tire with Ceres' load,
+          Whose crownless head awaits the diadem
+          That but divine, ancestral dignity
+          May fix imperishably upon it! A bride
+          For blessed Rome! And will you give her up
+          To ravishers? To enemies of the Church?
+          To unclean hands ne'er dipped in holy chrism?
+
+ Aus.     The time's not ripe for our united swords
+          To ransom her.
+
+ Car.                     The time is always ripe
+          For a good deed. Napoleon, you will come!
+          And though you fail, failure will be majestic.
+          Withdraw like frightened schoolboy and you make
+          Your throne a penance stool whereon you sit
+          For laughter of the nations. But come, and though
+          You fail, when time has brought America
+          To her full, greedy strength, these scornful kings
+          Will then unite in desperate endeavor
+          To give your great conception form and face,
+          And at your tomb they'll lift their shaken crowns
+          And beg a pardon from your heart of dust!
+
+ Prus.    (Aside) He'll yield to her!... Most noble lady, we--
+
+ Car.     I speak, sir, to Napoleon.
+
+ Lou.                                 What help
+          Can Austria give?
+
+ Aus.                       Sire, she has many troubles.
+          The clouds of war threat her with scarlet flood,
+          And little strength has she to spare abroad
+          When foes besiege at home.
+
+ Car.                                 And Austria's chief
+          Is Maximilian's brother! It was not so
+          That day at Miramar when three proud crowns
+          Took oath to serve him in an hour like this.
+          Austria powerless! And Belgium--dead.
+          But France--Ah, France, she will prove noble, loyal
+          To God and honor!
+
+ Lou.                       My honor, dearest lady,
+          Permits me not to risk my country's life
+          That you may wear a crown in Mexico.
+          I can not save your empire.
+
+ Car.                                 Then let it fall,
+          But save--my husband's life!
+
+          (Astonishment and silence)
+
+ Lou.                                   You speak but madly.
+          America has sent us guaranties
+          She will demand that Maximilian
+          Be held but as a prisoner of war.
+          The Mexicans dare not proceed against him
+          Contrary to the mighty government
+          That is sole friend unto their scarce born state.
+
+ Car.     America demands with paper words
+          That can be torn and laughed at. Would she save him?
+          Let her demand his life with cannon turned
+          Upon his murderers. Then, sire, I'll trust
+          To their obedience. Till then I'll plead
+          With you. All hope is here.
+
+ Lou.                                 Not so, dear lady.
+          Italy, Austria, and your Belgium,
+          Have sent their ablest counsel to defend him.
+
+ Car.     Troops, troops, my lord, not wordy men of law,
+          Are his sole need. Should God send angels there
+          He'd choose but those who bear the flaming sword.
+          ... Here, here, my lords! Look here! His guaranties,
+          In his own hand set down! Here he vows faith
+          To Maximilian--and to Heaven! Hear!
+          'I, Louis Napoleon, take solemn oath
+          Upon the honor of a man and king--'
+          Shall I go on, my lord? Have you forgot?
+          Then let my tongue be as a burning pen
+          To write it new upon your heart!
+
+ Lou.                                       No! no!
+          In God's name, no!
+
+ Aus.                         Dear lady, this is torture.
+
+ Car.     Torture for you?--for him? Then what is it
+          For me, my lord?
+
+ Prus.                      Wouldst have his majesty
+          False to his country to be true to you?
+
+ Aus.     The oath he took was, by the courtesy
+          Of nations, subject to the change that time
+          Visits on countries as on men.
+
+ Car.                                     You'd win
+          His sword from me that you may use it! Sirs,
+          He plays you 'gainst each other as the eagle
+          Sets ospreys in contention over prey
+          That he may filch the prize!
+
+ Lou.                                   Carlotta!
+
+ Car.                                             Be warned!
+          He'll know no ease till in your capitals
+          He has re-crowned the great Napoleon!
+
+ Lou.     Nay--
+
+ Car.           Stop me not! Here you shall stand as bare
+          To these men's eyes as you do to my own!
+
+ Lou.     My lords, you will not let her troubled mind
+          Weaken your trust in me?
+
+ Prus.                              Your majesty,
+          We know you noble.
+
+ Car.                         Noble! Napoleon,
+          This wondrous city is aflame with joy,
+          The blazing fires now dart aloft and write
+          In golden light your name upon the skies,
+          But in your heart will burn a torch of hell
+          Unquenchable, if you deny me aid!
+
+ Lou.     Dear madam, pray believe that I am helpless.
+
+ Car.     You are as strong as France, Eugenie, help me!
+          If e'er you held a dear head on your breast--
+          You have!--for you've both son and husband! Ah,
+          I have no child. My lord is all to me.
+          O put your two in one and you will know
+          What now I plead for! By the kisses dropped
+          Upon your baby's cheek, and by the hope
+          That you will see him grow up at your side,
+          Another self with heart-strings round your own,
+          I pray you, lady, soften that stone heart!
+          I kneel to you, an empress though my crown
+          Has fallen, as yours I pray will not,
+          And at your footstool beg my husband's life!
+
+          (Eugenie rises)
+
+          By your child's love, I beg you for one word!
+          Help me, Eugenie, or the day will come
+          When you will know a crown is but a band
+          Of metal cold, and one warm kiss more dear
+          Than all such circling glory! When you will grow
+          Mad with the longing but to touch the hand
+          Now lies in yours as it would never part,
+          Strain for the face whose beauty fed you once
+          Until your madness builds it out of air
+          To gaze with sweet unhuman pity on you
+          Yet come not near for kisses! O, even now
+          I look through sealed up time unto a night
+          When sleep will fly from your woe-drownéd eyes,
+          And you will cry to Heaven for blessed death
+          To lead you from the midnight desolation!
+          Eugenie, save thyself! For thy own sake
+          Show pity unto me, and in that hour
+          Receive the mercy that thou now dost give!
+
+ Eug.     (Going) Help me! I'm ill! (Her women assist her out)
+
+ Car.                               Gone! Gone? And yet a woman!
+          Ah, there's a God will suffer not this wrong!
+          ... Napoleon--
+
+ Lou.                     Nay, madam, we've said all.
+          I can not cast my country into war.
+          You but fatigue yourself.
+
+ Car.                               O Heaven! Fatigue!
+          Canst think of that when Maximilian
+          Is facing bayonets for honor's sake?
+
+ Lou.     Believe me, he is safe!
+
+ Car.                             I tell you no!
+          To-day the guns from Mont Valerien
+          Pealed out your glory! Your arm was in the arm
+          Of Prussia's monarch, and Waterloo forgot!
+          You laughed with Austria's chief, as though the duke
+          Of Reichstadt were not dead! The bloody snows
+          Of Moscow melt in Alexander's smile!
+          Edward's in France, St. Helena's a myth!
+          And all the world is trooping here to feed
+          Your monstrous vanity! But let the morn
+          Bring news of Maximilian's death,
+          These kings will shudder from you as from plague,
+          The conscious earth refuse your feet a base
+          For shame to bear you! Then will begin your fall.
+          Down, down you'll creep to an unpitied death,
+          And winds that shriek around your exile bed
+          Will cry me prophetess!
+
+ Lou.     (After a silence)       Your audience
+          Is over. Pray go and rest. You need much sleep.
+
+ Car.     A woman sleeps not till her heart is safe.
+          My eyes shall not be closed till I've your answer.
+
+ Lou.     You have it, lady, and we beg you leave us.
+
+ Car.     Leave! leave! O sir, it is a lie I hear! (Falls at his feet)
+          You did not say it! See! I kiss your feet! O sir--
+
+ Lou.     (Withdrawing) You put us to discourtesy.
+          Since you will not withdraw, we leave you.
+
+ Car.     (Leaping up)                                Coward!
+          Then, Louis Napoleon, Emperor of France!
+          Thou art a murderer, and I have kissed
+          The devil's hoof! (Exit Napoleon)
+
+          (Carlotta stands dazed, looking after Napoleon. Puts her
+          hand over her eyes. Count Charles goes to her)
+
+ Char.    Dear madam, come with me. (She looks about bewildered)
+
+ One of her women.                  Your majesty,
+          We pray you come.
+
+ Car.     (Strangely)       Yes--yes-- I'll go. Away!
+
+          (Exit with her attendants)
+
+ Aus.     A gloomy business, truly.
+
+ Prus.                              'T has wrought upon me.
+
+          (Re-enter Napoleon)
+
+ Lou.     My lords, believe me grateful for your help
+          In this most wretched business.
+
+          (Enter Secretary)
+
+ Sec.     A dispatch, sire, from Mexico.
+
+ Lou.                                     We'll hear it.
+          All here should share this news with me.
+
+ Sec.                                               'Tis short,
+          Your majesty.
+
+ Lou.                   The sooner read. We wait.
+
+ Sec.     (Reads) 'By order of Juarez, the Austrian duke, Ferdinand
+          Maximilian, has been shot.'
+
+          (Silence. Napoleon groans)
+
+ It.      It can't be true!
+
+ Bel.                       'Tis false! I'll not believe it!
+
+ Prus.    Grieve not, your Majesty. This is a mock
+          Dispatch.
+
+ Aus.               A noble archduke! Bound by ties
+          Of blood and love to every court of Europe!
+          Believe this not, my lord!
+
+ Sec.                                 Your Majesty,
+          This second message from America
+          Confirms the other.
+
+ Lou.                         'Tis true! My God, 'tis true!
+
+ It.      Carlotta! Who will tell her?
+
+ Lou.                                   None shall do it!
+          She must not know.
+
+ Rus.                         Pardon me, sire, she must.
+
+ Lou.     Then his death bullet has not stopped its flight.
+          'T will end but in her heart.
+
+          (Re-enter Count Charles. Napoleon silently gives him the
+          despatch, which he reads with great agitation)
+
+ Char.    (To himself)                  O terrible! And yet
+          No news to me--to me.
+
+ Lou.                           You'll tell her, sir?
+
+ Char.    There is no need, my lord. Her reason's fled.
+          She's mad.
+
+ Bel.                 'Tis Heaven's mercy!
+
+ It.                                        Unhappy woman!
+
+ Char.    She is not wild, but gentle, and thinks, my lord,
+          You've granted her request.
+
+ Lou.                                 Noble Carlotta!
+          My lords, forbear awhile. I'd be alone.
+
+ It.      God grant you rest.
+
+          (All go out but Napoleon)
+
+ Lou.     These kings I've called here to a dance must lead
+          A funeral. What can I say to them?
+          To Austria--his brother! England--his own cousin!
+          To Belgium--_her_ brother! Spain-- O, all
+          The _world_, that loved him!... An Emperor--and shot.
+
+          (Musical procession passes in street. Shouts of
+          'Vive l'empereur! Vive l'empereur!')
+
+          He too heard shouts like those--saw fires ascend
+          To write his triumph--ay--and he is cold--
+          Quite cold--shot dead.... Carlotta! prophetess!
+          I feel--I know--thy oracle's from God!
+
+          (Falls at the foot of the imperial chair)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Miramar. A balcony overlooking the sea. Lady Maria
+alone.
+
+ Mar.     Here they went out together--arm in arm,--
+          Sweet, healing spirits to a bleeding land.
+          Down yonder terrace to the sea they passed,--
+          He unto death, and she--to--(Sighs deeply)
+
+ Car.     (Without)                     Cousin!
+
+ Mar.                                           Ah!
+
+          (Turns smiling to greet Carlotta who enters carrying
+          flowers)
+
+          So early out? What treasures have you there?
+
+ Car.     The sweetest flowers that ever peeped up head.
+          They grow along the path in that dear wood
+          Where Maximilian took me gypsying
+          When we grew weary of the world.
+
+ Mar.                                       I'm sure
+          That was not often.
+
+ Car.                         True. We loved too well
+          Our work among the people to hide ourselves
+          In little corners of delight. But oh, those times!
+          How he would catch me as I ran and say
+          His little wild-girl with her flower crown
+          Was dearer than his princess ermine-gowned.
+          And so I'll wreathe these buds into my hair,
+          And meet him as he loved me best.
+
+          (Goes to edge of the balcony and looks to sea)
+
+                                            To-day!
+          This blessed, beauteous day our eyes shall see him!
+
+          (Drops flowers in trance of happiness)
+
+ Mar.     Sweet Empress--
+
+ Car.                     Empress? No! To-day I am
+          His little wild-girl with her wreath of flowers.
+          O, I must make my crown! Now, now, how careless!
+
+          (Picks up flowers, sits and weaves them)
+
+          You see this flower?
+
+ Mar.                           'Tis very beautiful.
+          What is it?
+
+ Car.                 I've seen it only in our wood.
+          Maximilian says it grows but for my hair. (Sings)
+
+                  In a young, sweet hour of Spring
+                  I sat 'neath an old tree to sing
+                                          Of love, only love!
+                  The little brook took up my tune
+                  And to his soft green banks did croon,
+                  The green grass rippled to the tree
+                  And every leaf shook melody
+                                          Of love, only love!
+                  And then the birds that flitted by
+                  Told it the clouds that told the sky,
+                  And all the world to song did start
+                  With what I sang but to my heart!
+                  Ay, all the world sang back to me
+                  A little maiden 'neath a tree
+                                          Of love, only love!
+
+          (Puts down flowers and goes to Lady Maria)
+
+          Ah, cousin, do you think he'll be delayed?
+
+ Mar.     Dear madam, I fear me so.
+
+ Car.     These ships! these ships!
+          How slow their wings when they do bear our loved ones!
+          The wandering treasures of our empty arms!
+          The western waters must have sirens too,
+          And will not let him pass.
+
+ Mar.                                 Indeed they would not,
+          Did they but know what majesty is in him.
+
+ Car.     (Embracing her)
+          O help me love him, dear. My heart's too small.
+
+          (Enter Count Charles)
+
+ Char.    A message.
+
+ Car.                 Oh! a message! I do not want
+          A message.
+
+ Char.                The admiral of the port has word
+          The Emperor's ship's delayed.
+
+ Car.                                   Why, we'll not weep....
+          'Tis but a day.... (Goes forward, looking out)
+                              To-morrow, then--to-morrow!
+          (To Lady Maria) Why do you weep? A day's not worth a tear.
+          See, I can smile!... But my poor flowers will fade.
+          I plucked them all.... No more grow by the path....
+          (Suddenly) Cousin, why wear you black?
+
+ Mar.     (Confused)                              I--madam--I--
+
+ Car.     Such sable hues for this so rosy day?
+          Go dress your body like our happy hearts!
+          Dost think a coffin comes across the sea?
+          A coffin--(Shudders) Go! I can not bear this black!
+
+          (Exit Lady Maria)
+
+          I am displeased. Have I not reason, Charles?
+          'Twas very wrong of her to dress in black
+          When Maximilian comes. I will go in.
+          I'm tired--but I am very happy. Ah! (Exit)
+
+ Char.    O wounded heart! Thus every day she hopes,
+          And every day begins her hope anew.
+          It is my penance now to watch her sorrow,
+          To guard perfection's wreck in her sad body,
+          And hear the name of Maximilian fall
+          Each moment from her lips. O, God, remember
+          When once I am in hell, I've suffered here!
+
+          (Re-enter Carlotta)
+
+ Car.     I can not stay away. This is my place.
+          Here will I catch the first light on his sail.
+          O Charles, dear Charles, to-morrow we shall see him!
+          Look in his noble eyes,--ah me, what eyes!
+          Dost not remember? Talk of him, cousin.
+          It brings him faster to me. My heart! my heart!
+          This waiting breaks it though 'tis but a day!
+          An hour that keeps him from me lengthens like
+          The drawn out ages 'tween the ends of time!
+          But oh, to-morrow! Let me think of that!
+          Then will the small globe of mine eye contain
+          The wide and complete world of my desires!
+          ... Have you forgot Aseffa? You do not speak;
+          But you have not forgot. She said--Oh, cruel!--
+          That he, my Maximilian, should lie cold
+          While yet my arms were warm and reaching for him.
+          How could she say it? But you stood by him--you--
+          His faithful friend. You knew 't would ne'er be true!
+          ... Do you remember, Charles, the winter day
+          He climbed to Valtelina's ice-bound huts
+          To bear the starving people food?
+
+ Char.                                      Yes--yes!
+          'Tis my sole virtue to remember his!
+
+ Car.     And when the flooding Ambro left her banks,
+          Rolling a very sea o'er farm and town,
+          Who was the first to ride the dangerous waves,
+          A rescuing angel saving man and child?
+
+ Char.    'Twas Maximilian!
+
+ Car.                       Yes, our Maximilian.
+          I feared the Mexicans would take his life.
+          Was not that foolish, cousin? I should have known
+          God could not spare him from His world. Hast heard
+          The men of Licio tell how he was first
+          To bring them aid when all their silkworms died
+          And silence struck the looms that gave them food?
+          This man will say 'I have a son alive
+          Because of Maximilian!' And that will say
+          'I have a daughter now to tend my age,
+          Because the Lombard governor brought bread
+          Unto her cradle.'... And he is coming back.
+          ... Beautiful Miramar! We'll never leave thee,
+          Though stars should beckon to a golden world!
+          To-morrow he'll come! Maximilian!
+
+                                            (Holds out her arms
+          toward the sea, looking radiantly into distance)
+
+                                            Charles!
+          (Turns suddenly, laying her hand on his arm)
+          Look! What men are those? Do you not see them?
+
+ Char.    There's nothing, cousin,--nothing but the sea.
+
+ Car.     Oh, look! They wear the Mexican dress!
+
+ Char.                                            Come in,
+          Sweet princess!
+
+ Car.                     Ah yes, they're Mexicans.
+
+ Char.                                              Come!
+          You've had some fever. 'Tis a sick-room vision.
+
+ Car.     No, no! I'm well! Ah, never in such health!
+          I see like God! O look! A score of them!
+          Moving but silent as death! Where are they marching?
+          The sun gleams on their guns! O see, Charles, see!
+          There is a prisoner! Poor man! poor man!
+          I can not see his face. He walks most sadly,--
+          And proudly too! An upright soul, I know!
+
+ Char.    Dear cousin, come away!
+
+ Car.                             He's humbly dressed,
+          And but for that I'd think he might be royal,
+          Ah, royal as Maximilian! O Charles,
+          I am so glad he's safe upon the sea!
+          Safe--safe--and coming to me!
+
+ Char.    (Most pleadingly)             Come, wait within,
+          Dear princess! Come!
+
+ Car.                           I will not leave him! No!
+          The poor, sad prisoner! Those cruel weapons!
+          I fear--I fear--he is condemned to die.
+          ... Perhaps he has a wife. Ah me, I pray not.
+          Then would be tears! He is a noble man,--
+          But still his face is from me.... They reach the field.
+          The soldiers halt and lift their guns. O how they gleam!
+          ... I can not see.... Why is the face so dim?
+          Will no one save him? Let us pray for him!
+          We can do that! Down on our knees and pray!
+          O men, men, men! What sin beneath the sun
+          Can give excuse for such a deed as this?
+          O, Heaven, are you looking too? A man
+          So noble! Oh, he turns--he turns--his breast
+          Is to the weapons! Now they fire! He falls!
+          His face! (Gives a wild cry) Oh God! 'tis Maximilian!
+
+          (Falls forward on her face)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+THE POET
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. Helen's room, Truelord house, New York.
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Exterior of Clemm cottage, near Richmond.
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. Interior of Clemm cottage.
+    SCENE 2. The Same.
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. An old book store, New York.
+    SCENE 2. Poe's cottage, Fordham.
+
+
+  ACT V.
+
+    SCENE 1. Poe's lodging, Baltimore.
+    SCENE 2. A bar-room.
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  EDGAR ALLAN POE
+  VIRGINIA CLEMM
+  MRS. MARIA CLEMM
+  HELEN TRUELORD
+  MRS. TRUELORD
+  ROGER BRIDGMORE
+  NELSON CLEMM
+  MRS. DELORMIS
+  DOCTOR BARLOW
+  MRS. SCHMIDT
+  GEORGE THOMAS, Barkeeper
+  HAINES, JUGGERS, SHARP, BLACK, gamblers
+  BOOKSELLER
+  MUM ZURIE, TAT, BONY, servants at Clemm cottage.
+
+  Gertrude, Mabel, Annie, Sallie, Dora, Gladys, Ethel, Alma, Allie,
+    friends of Virginia.
+
+
+
+
+THE POET
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene: Room in the Truelord House. Helen lies on a couch before
+large windows, rear, reading by light from a small lamp on table
+near couch. She wears a loose robe over night-dress.
+
+A light knock is heard at door, left centre.
+
+ Hel.     (Sitting up) Mamma?
+
+ Voice.   Yes, dear.
+
+ Hel.     (Kissing book and closing it) Good-bye, my poet! (Drops
+          book on couch and goes to door)
+
+ Voice, as Helen opens door.
+          I saw your light. (Enter Mrs. Truelord) Forgive me,
+          love. I could not rest. (Helen is closing door) No!
+          Kate is coming.
+
+ Mrs. Delormis. (In door) Yes, I'm here, too, Helen.
+
+ Hel.     Come in, Cousin Catherine.
+
+          (All three advance)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Madela had a feminine version of the
+          jim-jams--tea-nerves, you know--so must get
+          us both up.
+
+ Hel.     (Drawing forward a huge chair for Mrs. Truelord while Mrs.
+          Delormis takes a smaller one) I was not in bed.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Looking toward bed in alcove, right) But you have
+          been! You could not sleep either. Ah!
+
+          (Sighs deeply)
+
+ Hel.     (Goes to couch) Now, mamma!
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Embarrassed by Helen's straightforward look)
+          Helen--I--I've just got to have it out to-night. You are
+          only my step-daughter, but I've loved you like my own.
+
+ Hel.     (Quaintly) Yes.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          Haven't I always treated you as if you were my
+          daughter born?
+
+ Hel.     (Slowly) You have indeed!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          And I can't bear for you to--to--O, I just can't bear
+          it, I say!
+
+ Hel.     Bear what, mamma?
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          This--this man--
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Edgar Poe, Helen.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          You are going to give up Roger--Roger who has
+          worshipped you since you were a baby, who has lived under
+          the same roof and been a brother to you since you were two
+          years old--you are going to give him up for a strange
+          man--a man without a penny--a man you have seen but
+          once--(Almost shrieking)--but once--(Rising)
+
+ Hel.     (Crosses, and stands before her, speaking calmly) We know
+          angels at first sight, mamma.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Grabbing Helen by the shoulders and staring at her)
+          You have done it already! (Falls to chair as if fainting)
+
+ Hel.     Soothe her, Catherine. I will get some wine. (Exit)
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Sitting up, at once recovered) She's made up her
+          mind. When her eyes shine like that it's no use to argue.
+          And all of Roger's fortune in Mr. Truelord's hands! We've
+          considered it a family resource for years!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          What a fool Roger was to bring Edgar Poe to the house!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          He's crazy about the man. Says he's a genius, and all
+          that stuff.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, he is. But to introduce him to a girl like
+          Helen! They'll be off before morning!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          Oh-h! Don't, Kate! Roger actually wants me to ask him
+          to stay in the house.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Idiot! He deserves to lose her.... But your guest!
+          (Laughs) Poor Madela! How he would upset your nice,
+          comfortable theories of life! Why, you couldn't hand him a
+          cup of tea without feeling the planet quake.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          But what are we to do? Kate, you _must_ help me.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I'm going to. You can't tell her father, because Helen
+          must be persuaded, not opposed. And don't speak about the
+          money. If she loved a beggar she would trudge barefoot
+          behind him.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Despairingly) O, don't I know it?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Now you leave this to me, Madela. I will say a few
+          things to Helen about meeting Mr. Poe in Europe--and--you
+          know--
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Kissing her violently) O, Kate! Tell her all--and
+          more, if necessary! Don't think about your reputation if
+          you can save Roger's fortune--
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Sh!--
+
+          (Enter Helen, with wine and a glass)
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Feebly) Thank you, dear, but I'm better now. (Rising)
+          I'll try to rest. (Goes to door)
+
+ Hel.     I would see you to your room, mamma, but I'm sure you
+          would rather have Catherine. (Mrs. Delormis makes no
+          move to go)
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          O, I am quite well--I mean--I need no one--no one at
+          all! Goodnight, my dears! (Exit)
+
+ Hel.     (Politely) And is there anything which you must have out
+          to-night, cousin Catherine?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Sit down, Helen. (Helen takes a chair) You have never
+          loved me, but I have always had a warm heart for you,
+          little girl. And you will take a warning from me in good
+          part, won't you?
+
+ Hel.     A good warning, yes.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I told you about meeting Mr. Poe last summer in
+          Normandy. But--I did not tell you how often I met him.
+          (Helen rises, then Mrs. Delormis rises) Helen, I prove my
+          love for you by saying what it is so hard to utter to your
+          pure self. My life has not been--all you would wish it to
+          be--and Mr. Poe knows more about it than any other man.
+
+ Hel.     You lie! I have seen his soul!
+
+          (She goes to door and opens it for Mrs. Delormis to pass
+          out. Mrs. Delormis sweeps through with an attempt at
+          majesty)
+
+ Hel.     (Motionless with clenched hands) Wicked, wicked woman!...
+          (Goes to window, rear, opens it, draws long breaths as if
+          stifling, and turns back into room) Edgar! My love! I was
+          a thing of clay. One look from your eyes has made me a
+          being of fire and air.... (Lies down on couch and takes up
+          her book) ... I can not read ... or sleep ... or pray.
+          There's too much whirling in my heart for prayer....
+          (Starts) What moan is that?... (Rises, takes light from
+          table, goes to window, leans out, casting the rays down)
+          Nothing.... I'm fanciful.... The moon is rising. (Goes
+          back, putting light on table) O, Edgar! God help me to be
+          what love must be to thee. Love that can look on miracles
+          and be sane. What a face when he said goodnight! Like an
+          angel's whose immortality is his wound.... Poor Roger!...
+          What will my father say?... (Moonlight floods the window)
+          Welcome, soft nurse of dreams! (Extinguishes lamp) A
+          little rest.... Ah, I know _he_ does not sleep.... (She
+          lies on couch in the moonlight, her eyes closed. Poe
+          enters by window, gazes at her, and throws up his arms in
+          gesture of prayer)
+
+ Hel.     (Looking up, and springing to her feet) Edgar! My God, you
+          must not come here!
+
+ Poe.     Is this love's welcome?
+
+ Hel.     Go! go!
+
+ Poe.     I was dying out there.
+
+ Hel.     Leave me!
+
+ Poe.     Life was passing from my veins. Only your eyes could draw
+          back the ebbing flood.
+
+ Hel.     I will light the lamp! (Turns hastily)
+
+ Poe.     And put out Heaven's! (She drops her hand)
+
+ Hel.     Go, O go at once!
+
+ Poe.     Again I am alone! The twin angel who put her hand in mine
+          is flown!
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, be calm!
+
+ Poe.     Calm! With such a look from you burning me as if I were a
+          devil to be branded? Such words from you hissing like
+          snakes through my brain?
+
+ Hel.     O, I beg you--
+
+ Poe.     I would but touch the hand that soothes my blood--look in
+          the eyes that wrap my soul in balm--and you cry out as
+          though some barbarous infidel had trampled you at prayers!
+
+ Hel.     My father--Roger--they will not understand.
+
+ Poe.     O, you would bring the world in to say how and when we
+          shall love! Take note of the hour, and kiss by the clock!
+          Great love is like death, Helen. It knows no time of day.
+          If a man were dying at your gates would you keep from him
+          because 'twas midnight and not noon, and you were robed
+          for sleep? It was your soul I sought. Must you array that
+          to receive me? O, these women! On Resurrection day they'll
+          not get up unless their clothes are called with them from
+          the dust! 'Excuse me, God, and send a dressmaker!' Ha! ha!
+          ha! (Walks the floor in maniac humor)
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, for love's sake hear me!
+
+ Poe.     Speak loud if you would drown the winds!
+
+ Hel.     Listen!
+
+ Poe.     (Turning upon her) If my body bled at your feet you would
+          stoop to me, but when my spirit lies in flames you cry
+          'Don't writhe! Don't be a spectacle!'
+
+ Hel.     (Putting her hands on his shoulders and speaking steadily)
+          The spirit does not murmur. Only the body cries.
+
+ Poe.     (Calming) Forgive me, Helen!
+
+ Hel.     Yes, love. (Draws him to couch and sits by him soothingly)
+          ... O, your forehead is on fire.
+
+ Poe.     No wonder, when I have just come out of hell.... Keep your
+          cool hand over my eyes.... O, this is peace!... (Takes her
+          hand from his forehead and holds it) I made you a song out
+          there, in the darkness. I was fainting for one gleam of
+          light when you opened the window and stood as beautiful as
+          Psyche leaning to the god of love. Listen ... and believe
+          that my heart was as pure as the lines. (Sings softly)
+
+                  Helen, thy beauty is to me
+                    Like those Nicean barks of yore
+                  That gently o'er a perfumed sea
+                    The weary, wayworn wanderer bore
+                    To his own native shore.
+
+                  On desperate seas long wont to roam,
+                    Thy hyacinth hair, thy classic face,
+                  Thy Naiad airs, have brought me home
+                    To the glory that was Greece
+                  And the grandeur that was Rome.
+
+                  Lo, in yon brilliant window-niche
+                    How statue-like I see thee stand,
+                    An agate lamp within thy hand,--
+                  Ah! Psyche, from the regions which
+                    Are holy-land!
+
+          (Drops his head to her hand and kisses it gently)
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, my life shall be my song to thee. (They are silent
+          for a second. His hand touches her book)
+
+ Poe.     A book! Who could write for such an hour? (Holds book in
+          moonlight) Shelley! Lark of the world! You would know!...
+          You will give me this book, Helen?
+
+ Hel.     It is precious. You will love it?
+
+ Poe.     Always! (Kisses book, and puts it inside his coat. Taking
+          her hand) O, all our life shall be a happy wonder! Wilt
+          lie with me on summer hills where pipings of dim Arcady
+          fall like Apollo's mantle on the soul? Dost know that
+          silence full of thoughts?--and then the swelling earth--the
+          throbbing heaven? Canst be a pulse in Nature's very body?
+          (Leaping up) Take forests in thy arms, and feel the little
+          leaf-veins beat thy blood?
+
+ Hel.     (Rising) Yes--yes--I know. Come to the window, love. The
+          soft Spring air begins to stir.
+
+          (They move to window)
+
+ Poe.     O, what a night! 'Tis like a poem flowing to the sea. Here
+          I shake death from my garments. Oh, had my soul a tongue
+          to trumpet thought, men from yon planets now would stare
+          and lean to earth with listening ears!... Hark! 'Tis
+          music!
+
+ Hel.     (Looking down) A serenade.
+
+ Poe.     Canst call it that? I hear nothing that comes not from the
+          stars. 'Tis Israfel! The angel whose lute is his own
+          heart!
+
+                    If I could dwell
+                    Where Israfel
+                      Hath dwelt, and he where I,
+                    He might not sing so wildly well
+                  A mortal melody,
+                    While a bolder note than his might swell
+                      From my lyre within the sky!
+
+          Some day we shall live there, Helen, and then I will sing
+          to thee!
+
+ Hel.     But now--my love--you must rest--you must sleep.
+
+ Poe.     Sleep! Nothing sleeps but mortality!
+
+ Hel.     And you are mortal, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     I! Nay, thy love has given me kinship with the deities!
+          Sleep? Ay, when Nature naps, and God looks for a bed! When
+          yonder moon forgets her starry whirl and nodding falls
+          from heaven! When Ocean's giant pulse is weary and grows
+          still! When Earth heaves up no seasons with their buds!
+          No, no, we will not sleep! But see--there gleams the
+          river--and yonder rise the hills touched new with Spring!
+          Wilt go there with me, Helen? Now!
+
+ Hel.     Now?
+
+ Poe.     To-night!
+
+ Hel.     To-night?
+
+ Poe.     Why not? You say it as though night and day were not the
+          same to the soul--except that night is more beautiful! Why
+          not go?
+
+ Hel.     I will tell you, love. (Drawing him back to the large
+          chair) Come, listen. (She sits in chair, and he kneels by
+          her, the moonlight covering them) Because I love you more
+          than you love beauty, God or night, and you must live for
+          me. And to live means--rest--sleep--
+
+ Poe.     Do you love me so much? O, 'tis like cool waters falling
+          about me to hear you say it.
+
+ Hel.     I will help you, Edgar. Already I feel my strength. Where
+          I may serve you I'll not meekly go, but go exultant. The
+          thorns and stones so harsh to human feet, I'll press as
+          they were buds, and leave my blood for kisses.
+
+ Poe.     Oh, go on.
+
+ Hel.     Yes, I've more to tell you. It is--that you must help me,
+          too. To-day--before you looked at me the first time--I was
+          dying. Ah, more,--I was about to set the seal of death on
+          my soul. My mother, who died at sea when I was born, gave
+          me a heritance with winds and waves and stars. But I was
+          nursed by hands through whose clay ran no immortal
+          streams. Cradled in convention, fed on sophistries, I wove
+          a shroud about my soul, and within that hardening
+          chrysalis it was dying away when you called it forth in
+          time to live--dear God, in time to live! Now you see how
+          much you are to me, Edgar. I must not lose you. But you
+          must be careful and patient with me, for my newly-bared
+          soul shrinks from the wonders so familiar to you, and I
+          may fly back to my chrysalis to escape the pain.
+
+ Poe.     I am not afraid. Would a mother leave her babe? And I am a
+          child now, Helen. This strange, new rest you give me is
+          like a gentle birth. I have been old all my life. Now the
+          longing comes for a little of the childhood that was never
+          mine. The years fall from me, and I have no wish but to
+          lie on a mother's bosom and hear her voice prattling above
+          me.
+
+ Hel.     (Archly, leaning over him as he sits at her feet) Does my
+          little boy want a story?
+
+ Poe.     (Smiling) About the fairies, mama?
+
+ Hel.     About the fairies--and a big giant--and a little girl lost
+          in a wood--
+
+ Poe.     And a little boy too?
+
+ Hel.     Yes, a little boy, too! And the little girl was crying--
+
+ Poe.     And the little boy found her?
+
+ Hel.     Yes, and he told her not to cry, that he could kill the
+          big giant, and he hid the little girl in a cave--
+
+ Poe.     Was it a dark cave, mama?
+
+ Hel.     No-_o-o_! It was a cave--with--windows in it! And by and
+          by he heard the giant coming--
+
+ Poe.     Oh! (Hides his face on her breast. She holds him to her,
+          her hands on his hair) And when the little boy heard the
+          leaves rustling closer and closer he climbed a great
+          tree--
+
+ Poe.     (Lifting his head) But he wasn't afraid, mama?
+
+ Hel.     O, _no-o_!
+
+ Poe.     Because that little boy was me!
+
+ Hel.     Yes. And when you got to the top of the tree--
+
+ Poe.     O, what did I do then?
+
+ Hel.     Why, you see this was the biggest giant that _e-v-e-r_
+          lived--and his head was just as high as the top of the
+          tree--so when he came by--
+
+ Poe.     I know! I know! I just out with my sword, and off went his
+          head!
+
+ Hel.     So it did! And then you climbed down from the tree--
+
+ Poe.     And the little girl came out of the cave--
+
+ Hel.     And you went off together happy ever after!
+
+ Poe.     What was that little girl's name, mama?
+
+ Hel.     Why, I don't think you ever told me that, did you?
+
+ Poe.     I was just thinking--
+
+ Hel.     What, darling?
+
+ Poe.     That I wish you weren't my mama, so you could be that
+          little girl!
+
+ Hel.     O, I can, dear. For there were the fairies. We forgot the
+          fairies. They gave me this pretty ring, so that when I put
+          it on I can be whoever I please, and I please to be just
+          whoever my little boy likes best.
+
+ Poe.     (Rises, and speaks in his own manner) Madonna, Oh,
+          Madonna! You will save me. (Kisses her forehead)
+          Good-night. To-morrow I will tell you about my work--our
+          work. There are miracles yet to be. And Poesy shall speak
+          them.
+
+ Hel.     But do not try to write out all your soul, Edgar. That
+          cannot be. Poetry is but one gate. The soul goes out by a
+          thousand ways.
+
+ Poe.     True. And we will find those ways together, Helen. We will
+          gather truth in every path,--truth that flowers out of the
+          struggle and carnage of life like the bloom of song on the
+          crimson of war.
+
+ Hel.     But we may not know all. Man's greatest knowledge is but
+          the alphabet of the eternal book. We must be content with
+          the letters, and not unhappily strive to read.
+
+ Poe.     I will remember. But what mortal can attain shall be mine.
+          Already thoughts that fled my agony come to me as gently
+          as the alighting of birds. Truths open about me like the
+          unfolding of roses yet warm with God's secret. Good-night.
+          (Takes her hand) I am not the greatest genius, Helen, for
+          I can not stand alone. (Drops her hand and goes to window.
+          Hesitates and turns back) One kiss. (Kisses her) O, look
+          at me! I lose divinity when you close your eyes! Look at
+          me, and I can not fall for Heaven bears me up!
+
+ Hel.     (In sudden alarm) I hear a step!
+
+ Poe.     (Looking at her reproachfully) Listen better, you will
+          hear God's footfall.
+
+ Hel.     Some one is up.
+
+ Poe.     And do you care? Would you put a stain upon this hour?
+          This flower of love blown perfect from the skies?
+
+ Hel.     Ah, it is gone.
+
+ Poe.     (Wildly) O, you will leave me, Helen! You can not stay!
+          For I will play the madman to thy sense when I am sanest,
+          and like a shivering Atlas shake thy world when most thou
+          wouldst be still. This body wraps more lives then one, my
+          girl. When I was born no pitying angel dipped my spirit-fire
+          in Lethe. I weep with all the dead as they my brothers
+          were, and haunt the track of time to shudder with his
+          ghosts. Wilt fare with me, brave Helen? Wilt tread the
+          nadir gloom and golden paths of suns? Canst gaze with me
+          into the fearful, grey infinitude--
+
+ Hel.     That grey infinitude is yet the circle of your being. The
+          mind can not leave itself. You are always in your own
+          country. Why should you fear?
+
+ Poe.     The mind that can not leave itself knows nothing. Not the
+          'I am' but 'Thou art' is God. O, there is a realm of which
+          imagination is but a shadow--where the mind is burnt away
+          in His vision's fire, and thought becomes celestial angel
+          of itself! And you turn back with the first step--already
+          I am alone--
+
+ Hel.     No! I, too, have hung upon the boundaries of the world to
+          catch God's flying dreams! O, trust me! Thou shalt fling
+          no lance but I will cast it on to gleam in a farther sun!
+          Bring me roses from Jupiter, I'll bring thee lilies from
+          Uranus! O,--
+
+ Poe.     Mine, by Heaven! (Catches her to him) Here we'll begin the
+          immortal pilgrimage! We need not wait for death! From
+          world to world--
+
+ Hel.     (Springing from him) It _is_ a step!
+          Go, Edgar! Go!
+
+ Poe.     No! By the god in my bosom, you are mine from this moment!
+
+ Hel.     My father! my father! He will tear me from you--You do not
+          know him!
+
+ Poe.     I know he's mortal. Heaven could not part us. I will not
+          move!
+
+          (He is standing in the window. She hastily draws the
+          curtain before him)
+
+ Hel.     Then keep your word!
+
+          (A knock at the door. Helen is silent)
+
+ Voice.   Helen?
+
+ Hel.     It is you, Roger? Come in.
+
+          (Roger enters, carrying a lamp. Looks about and sees
+          Helen.)
+
+ Rog.     I heard voices.... Who was with you, Helen?... I could not
+          be mistaken.... (puts lamp on a table, and comes nearer
+          Helen.) Look at me, Helen.... I am your brother. Who was
+          here?... I know that Love has laid his mighty hand upon
+          you, but yet you are an angel. I thought--it was--his
+          voice.... Tell me what this means.... _He_ was not here!
+          O, I shall die when I learn that you are but a woman!
+
+ Poe.     (Leaping out) I am here, sir, to defend that lady's honor!
+
+ Rog.     (Staggers back, regains composure, and bows ironically) I
+          rejoice to hear it, sir, for you alone can do it. It is
+          wholly in your keeping. (Turns to go)
+
+ Hel.     Roger!
+
+ Rog.     Madam.
+
+ Hel.     You forsake me?
+
+ Rog.     You have forsaken yourself.
+
+ Hel.     Oh! (Swoons. Poe bends over her wildly affectionate. Roger
+          stands apart, proud and despairing)
+
+ Poe.     Helen! Speak! Speak to me!
+
+ Hel.     Leave me! Leave me!
+
+ Poe.     It is I, Helen! Your lover! Edgar!
+
+ Hel.     You, you, I mean! (Rising) Thou wing of hell across my
+          life! Away from me!
+
+          (Poe stands back speechless with bewilderment. Roger goes
+          to Helen, takes her hand, and leads her from the room)
+
+ Poe.     Lost! lost! lost! (Looks about the room) This place!...
+          O, I was mad to come here!... She will never forgive me!
+          (Falls on the couch and lies motionless. After a moment
+          enter Mrs. Delormis.)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Where is the wild man?... Oh, he has fainted! The
+          wine! (Goes to the table and pours wine)
+
+ Poe.     Oh!
+
+          (Mrs. Delormis turns to him. He rises ceremoniously, with
+          effort) Well?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, indeed! Here I am to your rescue, and you reward
+          me with a 'well' (mimicking) up to ceiling.
+
+ Poe.     What are they saying to her? I must go to her! I must!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Must _not_! Listen! (Grasps his arm to detain him)
+
+ Poe.     (Releasing his arm and bowing stiffly) Mrs. Delormis.
+
+ Mrs. D.  (Copying his manner) Mr. Poe!... Mr. Truelord has not
+          yet been roused. No one will wake him unless you choose
+          to do it yourself by increasing the hubbub. Roger defends
+          you to Mrs. Truelord--says you are ill--out of your
+          senses--and other complimentary things. Both of them
+          are soothing and mothering Helen, and--(dropping into
+          tenderness) I wanted you to have a little mothering, too--
+
+ Poe.     Do you really want to help me?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          O, if you would only let me be your friend!
+
+ Poe.     You may! Stay here with me till she comes! I know she will
+          come. She can not let me go without one word. It would be
+          too terrible. She can not! Stay till she comes. Talk to
+          me. Do not let me think!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I'll make myself comfortable then, and we'll have a
+          good chat. You know I've been told that I talk my best
+          between two and three in the morning.
+
+          (Takes pillow from couch to make herself cosy in chair)
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch that pillow!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Dropping into chair) Well!
+
+ Poe.     Do not sit in that chair!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Rising) May I stand on the carpet, or shall I take
+          off my slippers before the burning bush of your love?
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me! Don't you see that I have lost her?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, you _were_ out of your senses to come here and
+          think Helen would understand it.
+
+ Poe.     I was not! She did understand! The vision that led me to
+          her feet was as clear as an archangel's! It is now that I
+          am mad, and see everything gross and darkened with earth
+          and flesh! (Overcome, sinks on couch. She hastily brings
+          wine)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Drink it. You must.
+
+ Poe.     No! You offer me hell! And you know it. Put it down. If
+          you want to help me, go to her and bring me one word.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Drink this for me, and I will.
+
+ Poe.     (Taking glass) You will?... No! (Puts glass down)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My dear boy, you are too weak to stand! It's that old
+          habit of not eating. I don't believe you have tasted food
+          for days.
+
+ Poe.     True ... but.... (Faints. Mrs. Delormis gives him wine. He
+          rouses)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Now will you kill me?
+
+ Poe.     (Brightening) No. You were right. 'Twas what I needed. 'T
+          will keep life in me till she comes. Go to her now. Tell
+          her I will leave her--I will go away for a year--a
+          thousand years--if she will only say I may come back some
+          day. I will live in a desert and pray myself to the bone!
+          Bring me one word from her--a curse--anything!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Pouring wine) A little more of this then, so I shall
+          be sure to find you alive when I return.
+
+ Poe.     (Drinks eagerly) 'Tis life! Life! I've drunk of Cretan
+          wines against whose fragrant tide the Venus-rose poured
+          all her flood in vain, but never thrilled my lips till now
+          with drop so ravishing! And you brought it to me! Helen
+          left me to die ... cruel ... cruel ... cruel.... (Sits on
+          couch, taking his head in his hands. Looks up) Florimel!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My Calidore!
+
+ Poe.     You are a very beautiful devil.
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Pouring wine) Thanks. I'm glad you like my style.
+          (Sips wine) It _is_ good, isn't it?
+
+ Poe.     'Tis an enchantment to pilot grief to new and festal
+          worlds! Another cup! (Drinks) O, 'tis a drink to rouse the
+          drooping soul for warrier quest till on the conquered
+          shores of dream man strides a god!... (Pours another
+          glass) Again? No ... no more!... (Sinks down) O, my bird
+          of Heaven, come quickly, or I am lost!... Florimel!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My knight of Normandy!
+
+ Poe.     Since we are going to hell let us be merry about it.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          At last you are sensible.
+
+ Poe.     Wine! wine!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Holding glass) I mean to have my price for this.
+
+ Poe.     Take my soul!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Something better--a kiss!
+
+ Poe.     'Tis yours! (Kisses her) Why not? For but a kiss did Jove
+          forsake the skies, and jeopard his high realm!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          For but a kiss did Dian leave her throne and waste her
+          goddess dower on shepherd lips! (Sits by him) Now you are
+          going to tell me something. Why did you fly from Normandy,
+          and not a word, not a word to me? Come, my Calidore! Why
+          did you fly from me?
+
+ Poe.     (Momentarily sober) Because--a woman shall never become
+          less holy than God made her through me. (Rises and walks
+          away) Helen ... my amaranth, I may not pluck thee!...
+          (Staggers) One cup more ... one.... (Pours wine, and holds
+          up glass apostrophizing as Roger and Helen enter unnoticed)
+          O, little ruby ocean that can drown all mortal sighs! Call
+          buried hope to put life's garland on, and limping woes to
+          trip like Nereids on a moonlit shore! For thee, frail
+          sickness casts her pallid chrysalis and blooms a rosy
+          angel! For thee, Death breaks his scythe and owns Life
+          conqueror! (Drinks) Were this Antonius' cup.... Ha! Are
+          you there, my devil? Another kiss, sweetheart! (Throws
+          his arm about Mrs. Delormis. Helen cries out. Poe turns
+          and faces her)
+
+ Hel.     (To Poe, speaking slowly and mechanically) I came, sir, to
+          ask you to forgive me. (Turns to Roger) It is to you,
+          Roger, that I make my plea.
+
+          (Poe looks at her helplessly, then understands, and with a
+          terrible face, turns and leaps through the open window.
+          Helen, with a sob, droops, and Roger takes her in his
+          arms)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+Scene: Lawn in front of Clemm cottage, near Richmond. Bony and Tat
+on a side porch shelling peas.
+
+ Tat.     Sho' Mars Edgah come in good time! Pea-vines jes a hangin'
+          low, an' sweet as honey!
+
+ Bony.    Mars Edgah hab peas ebry day wha' he came f'om! Big city
+          hab ebryting!
+
+ Tat.     Dey can't hab ebryting when it don' grow!
+
+ Bony.    Sho', dey hab it when it don' grow same lak when he do
+          grow!
+
+ Tat.     You nebah did hab no sense!
+
+ Bony.    I ain't got no sense? Take dat, Tatermally Clemm! (Strikes
+          at her. They scuffle and bring Zurie to side door)
+
+ Zu.      Dem chillun' jes kill me! Why de Lawd make ol' Zurie bring
+          dem two twins to dis heah worl' she nebah could tell! Dey
+          haint shell 'nuf fo' a hummin' bird's stomach, an' de pot
+          bilin' mad fo' 'm dis minute! Wha' yo' do, yo' black
+          niggahs? Come in heah! I make yo' sit still an' do nuffin'
+          an' yo' ol' mammy wu'kin' hussef to def! (Picks up basket
+          and drives children into the kitchen. Calls after them
+          beamingly) Wha' yo' reckon yo' ol' mammy cookin' in dat
+          ubbin fo' two little no 'count niggahs?
+
+ Children. (Within, scampering with delight) Cherry cobblah!
+          Cherry cobblah!
+
+ Zu.      (Shutting the door) Don' want dat wind blowin' on my poun'
+          cake! It'll fall sho'!
+
+          (Virginia comes out at the front door of cottage, and
+          walks across the lawn to the shade of a bay tree where Poe
+          lies in a hammock as if asleep. A book on the ground. She
+          goes up softly and sits on a garden chair near him. He
+          opens his eyes)
+
+ Vir.     O, I have waked you!
+
+ Poe.     No, little houri. I was not asleep. I would not give one
+          breath of this sweet world to cold, unconscious sleep.
+
+ Vir.     You are happy, cousin Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     No, Virginia. This is all too delicious to be called
+          happiness. Too calm, like the stilling of a condor's wings
+          above sea-guarding peaks. He flies when he is happy. When
+          more than happy, it is enough to pause in the blue and
+          breathe wonders.
+
+ Vir.     Is it wonderful here, Edgar? It has always seemed so to
+          me, but I have been afraid to tell anyone. It seems like a
+          great fairy house with God in it. Is it wonderful, cousin?
+
+ Poe.     _You_ are wonderful.
+
+ Vir.     O, no, no, no! I want to tell you too, Edgar, I have never
+          felt that I quite belong here. It is all too good for
+          me--so beautiful, and I am not beautiful.
+
+ Poe.     (Rising) Why, my little aspiring Venus, let me tell you
+          something. I have wandered somewhat in life--at home and
+          over sea--and I have never looked upon a woman fairer than
+          yourself.
+
+ Vir.     (Springing up in delight) O, I am so happy! You would not
+          flatter me! You are the soul of truth!
+
+ Poe.     It is no flattery, little maid, as the world will soon
+          teach you.
+
+ Vir.     I have nothing to do with that world, Edgar. My world is
+          the circuit of our mocking-bird's wing. O, where is he?
+          (Calls) Freddy! Freddy! He is not near or he would come.
+          But he never goes farther than the orchard. Freddy!... He
+          has not sung to me this morning. You haven't heard his
+          finest song yet. O, 'tis sweeter than--
+
+ Poe.     (Picking up book) Than Spenser?
+
+ Vir.     Yes--than Spenser. Though he makes music too, and we were
+          just coming to the siren's song. Shall I read?
+
+ Poe.     Do! I knew not how to love him till he warbled from your
+          tongue.
+
+ Vir.     'Tis where the mermaid calls the knight.
+
+          (Reads)
+
+                  O, thou fair son of gentle faery,
+                  That art in mighty arms most magnifyde
+                  Above all knights that ever battle tried,
+                  O, turn thy rudder hetherward awhile!
+                  Here may the storm-bett vessel safely ride;
+                  This is the port of ease from troublous toil,
+                  The world's sweet inn from pain and wearisome turmoyle!
+
+ Poe.     No more--no more!
+
+ Vir.     Why, cousin?
+
+ Poe.     I shall have the water about my ears presently. I thought
+          I was drowning on a mermaid's bosom. Read no more,
+          Virginia. One nibble at a time is enough of Spenser. He
+          ought to be made into a thousand little poems. Then we
+          should have a multitude of gems instead of a great granite
+          mountain that nobody can circuit without weariness.
+
+ Vir.     You know so much, Edgar. Will you teach me while you are
+          here, if I try very hard to learn?
+
+ Poe.     (Plucking a flower) My little girl, what lore would you
+          teach this bud? God makes some people so. Be happy that
+          you are a beautiful certainty and not a struggling
+          possibility.
+
+ Vir.     But the rose has no soul, Edgar--no heart, as I have. It
+          does not sigh to see you look so pale, and read these
+          lines of suffering here, (touching his brow) but I--it
+          kills me, cousin! (He hides his face) Forgive me! O, I am
+          so unkind!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm comes out of cottage and crosses to them. She
+          gently takes Poe's hand from his face and kisses him)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear boy!
+
+ Poe.     (Seizing her hand and holding it) Don't--don't be so kind
+          to me, aunt! It tells too much of what has never been
+          mine. Curious interest--passing friendship--love born in a
+          flash and dead in an hour--these I have had, while my
+          heart was crying from its depths for the firmly founded
+          love that shakes but with the globe itself.
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Taking his head on her breast) My dear Edgar! You will
+          be my son--Virginia's brother!
+
+ Poe.     (Lifting his face smiling) I _will_ be happy! No more of
+          that solitude lighted only by the eyes of ghouls! Here I
+          have come into the light. I have found the sun. I see what
+          my work should be--what Art is. She is beauty and joy. Her
+          light should fall on life like morning on the hills. The
+          clouds of passion and agony should never darken her face.
+          O, I can paint her now ready for the embrace of the soul!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I can not see things with your rapturous eyes, Edgar,
+          but I know that your work will be noble, and I love you.
+
+ Poe.     O, aunt, you and this little wonder-witch have enchanted
+          me back to happiness. I promise you never again shall you
+          see a tear on my face or a frown on my brow. (Virginia,
+          looking toward the road, bows as to some one passing)
+
+ Poe.     Blushing, cousin? Who is worth such a rosy flag? (Stands
+          up and looks down the road) Brackett! I do believe!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You know him, Edgar? He is staying with my
+          brother-in-law, Nelson Clemm, for a short time, and has
+          asked to call on us--on Virginia, I mean, for of course I
+          don't count, now that my little girl is suddenly turned
+          woman.
+
+ Poe.     Don't for Heaven's sake!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You don't like him, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     Like him! We were at West Point together. He refused to
+          accept a challenge after slandering me vilely, and I was
+          obliged to thrash him. That's all. (Turns suddenly to
+          Virginia) And you were blushing for him!
+
+ Vir.     It was not because I like him, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     (Looking into her eyes) You are a wise little piece.
+
+ Mrs. C.  This is painful, Edgar. Of course he must not call.
+
+ Poe.     Call! Let him but look toward the house again, and I'll
+          give him a drubbing that will make him forget the first
+          one! The coward! He wouldn't meet me--after--
+
+ Vir.     How about the frowns, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     (Smiling) Let him go!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You should not make such bitter enemies at the beginning
+          of life, my boy.
+
+ Poe.     He can not touch me. He is not of my world.
+
+ Mrs. C.  We are all of one world, Edgar, and never know when we
+          may lap fortunes with our foes. Mr. Brackett is going into
+          literature too.
+
+ Poe.     Yes. The trade and barter part of it. I shall be in the
+          holy temple while he keeps a changer's table on the steps.
+          (Shrugging) Brackett! Pah!... But goodbye for half an
+          hour. I'm going to the orchard to take counsel with the
+          birds on my new philosophy. (Starts away) Come, (turning
+          to Virginia) my mocking bird, there won't be a quorum
+          without you! (Virginia goes to him. Zurie puts her head
+          out of a window and calls.)
+
+ Mum Zurie.
+          Mars Nelson comin' up de lane!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Come back, Virginia, you must see your uncle. Edgar,
+          won't you wait and meet him?
+
+ Poe.     Thank you aunt, but I don't think it would give him any
+          pleasure. (Exit)
+
+ Vir.     (Coming back reluctantly) O mama, we _will_ make him
+          happy!
+
+ Mrs. C.  We'll try, my dear. But you must get ready for the picnic.
+          The girls will be here soon. Is Edgar going with you?
+
+ Vir.     No, mother. He said he would go to a picnic only with
+          nymphs and naiads.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Here is uncle.
+
+          (Enter, from the road, Nelson Clemm)
+
+ Mr. C.   How d' do, Maria! Howdy, girl! Go get your hat.
+
+ Mrs. C.  What now, Nelson?
+
+ Mr. C.   Nothin'. Only I'm tired o' foolin' and talkin' about that
+          girl's education. I've come to take her this time.
+
+ Vir.     To send me to school?
+
+ Mr. C.   High time, ain't it? I couldn't make up my mind before
+          whether 'twas to be the seminary at Bowville or Maryburg.
+          But I had a letter this morning which settled it for
+          Bowville. Suits me exactly--suits me _exactly_. So get
+          your hat and come along. I drove across the ridge and left
+          my trap at Judge Carroll's.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Her clothes, Nelson! There's nothing ready--
+
+ Mr. C.   You mean to say! When we've been talkin' this thing a
+          whole year? And you a thrifty woman tell me her clothes
+          ain't ready? Well, she'll come without 'em, that's all.
+          You can send 'em along afterwards. I've got it all
+          fixed up, I tell you. My brother's child shall have her
+          chance--she shall have her chance, so long as I've got
+          a dollar in my pocket and she walks exactly to please
+          me--walks _exactly_ to please me. It's for you to say,
+          Maria, whether you'll stand in the way o' your own flesh
+          and blood or not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Of course, Nelson, I am very grateful, and do not dream
+          of depriving Virginia of this opportunity, only--
+
+ Mr. C.   That's all there is to it then. No onlys about it. Go get
+          your hat, girl. (Virginia goes slowly into the house. At
+          the door she meets Zurie who turns back and goes in with
+          her)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Now, Nelson?
+
+ Mr. C.   It's just this. My brother's child shan't stay another
+          hour in the same house with Edgar Poe. That's the plain
+          tale of it, Maria.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nelson Clemm!
+
+ Mr. C.   O, I've been hearin' things--I've been hearin'! He didn't
+          cover all his tracks at West Point--or New York either!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Lies! All lies! Every one of them! He is the soul of
+          honor! Already Virginia loves him like a brother! I trust
+          her instinct! I trust my own!
+
+ Mr. C.   O, I'm not arguin', I'm just doin'. You can't turn him
+          out, of course. Wouldn't do it myself. Nobody'll ever say
+          Nelse Clemm was an inhospitable dog! But I can look out
+          for Virginia, and I will. She goes with me now, or I'm
+          done with you and yours--and you know that mortgage ain't
+          paid off yet.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, she shall go. She ought to be in school and again
+          I thank you for helping us. But you are wronging my
+          nephew,--one of the noblest of men. You don't know him!
+
+ Mr. C.   It's plain enough _you_ don't!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Has Mr. Brackett--
+
+ Mr. C.   Mr. Brackett is a guest in my house. Now, Maria, say what
+          you please. (Virginia comes out of cottage carrying a
+          small satchel) That's a good girl! We'll fix up a fine
+          trunk and send it after her, won't we, mother?
+
+ Vir.     (Putting her arms about her mother's neck) He--wasn't in
+          the orchard, mama. Won't you say goodbye to him for me?
+
+ Mr. C.   Come, come now! (Leads her away) Don't worry, Maria. I'll
+          drive you over to Bowville every Sunday Doctor Barlow
+          doesn't preach. (Half turning) By the by, I saw him down
+          the lane at the widow Simson's. Reckon he'll be along here
+          pretty soon. Seems to be on his widow's route to-day. Good
+          morning! (Exeunt)
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Looking after them) I shall go to her myself to-morrow.
+          My little daughter! A stately woman now, but always my
+          little daughter! (Starts into the house, pausing on steps)
+          Poor Edgar! How he is misjudged! (Goes in)
+
+          (Zurie, Tat following, comes out of the side door and sets
+          to work digging up a shrub)
+
+ Zu.      (Muttering) Wha' Mis' Clemm gwine ter say ter all dem
+          young ladies comin' heah fo' de picnic? An' who gwine ter
+          eat dem pies Zurie been two days makin'? An' sech a poun'
+          cake! It ought to be a weddin' cake, deed it ought! (Bony
+          comes out of kitchen with a knife in his hand) Heah,
+          niggah, gimme up dat knife an' don' be so slow-back! Dis
+          heah bush done grow an' bloom till yo' get heah!
+
+          (Enter Poe, left, singing)
+
+                  Old winter is a lie
+                    As every spring doth prove,
+                  And care is born to die
+                    If we but let in love--
+
+          Hey Mum Zurie, what are you doing?
+
+ Zu.      I's diggin', honey.
+
+ Poe.     That rosebay is the most graceful shrub in the yard. You
+          kill one leaf of it, if you dare!
+
+ Zu.      Miss Virginia she say how her bru'r Edgah lub dis heah
+          tree, an' she want it under her window.
+
+ Poe.     Oh! Can't I help you, Zurie? Tenderly now!
+
+ Zu.      Miss Babylam' ax me to move it yistiddy but I don't git no
+          time, an' I ain' gwine to leab it now jes cause she's gone
+          away.
+
+ Poe.     Gone away?
+
+ Zu.      O Lawd, I forgot you don' know! Why, honey, Mars Nelson he
+          come jes now an' frisk her off to school. Zip! an'
+          Babylam' gone! An' law, ef you seen dat po' chile cryin'!
+
+ Poe.     She cried, Zurie?
+
+ Zu.      Deed she did, and she ax me twenty hundred times to tell
+          her bru'r Edgah goodbye.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia gone?
+
+ Zu.      I done tol' yo, Mars Edgah! Sho' yo' don't think ol' Zurie
+          know how ter tell lies, does yo', honey?
+
+ Poe.     No, Zurie, I know she is gone. The birds have all stopped
+          singing.
+
+ Zu.      Law, Mars Edgah, dey jes be a chipperin'! Heah dat now?
+
+ Poe.     That is not a song, Zurie. It is a wail from Stygian
+          boughs.
+
+ Zu.      O, yo' go way!
+
+ Poe.     Gone! I'll not permit it! My aunt must bring her back!
+          (Hurries into house)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' make him ac' so now? An' wha' make Miss Babylam' cry
+          hussef sick when she's gwine away ter be a fine lady? Mars
+          Nelson he mighty good to gib her eddication, but true fo'
+          sho he might jes' well gib it to my Tatermally fer all de
+          thanks he's gittin'. Ol' Zurie reckon it a sin to cry ober
+          de goodness ob God!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm and Poe come out of cottage, both disturbed)
+
+ Poe.     But, aunt, how are we going to live without her?
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear Edgar, we must not let our affections root so
+          deep in mortal things.
+
+ Poe.     Mortal? Virginia mortal! She is a sister to Psyche,
+          immortal as the breath that blew her into beauteous bloom!
+
+ Mrs. C.  While I am glad, my son, to see you so devoted to your
+          sister--
+
+ Poe.     Sister! Thank Heaven she is not my sister! Aunt, Virginia
+          must be my wife!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Bewildered) Are you mad, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     No. Sane at last. I have been mad until now. I have drunk
+          loneliness and death. Here I breathe, grateful, glad as a
+          flower! My breast swells and falls as a bird's throat with
+          happy song! O, aunt, help me to accept this fair new
+          life--the only real life! Do not drive me back to gloom
+          and the devils! Give me your Virginia!
+
+ Mrs. C.  A child, Edgar! A child!
+
+ Poe.     To you--only to you. She has her full dower of
+          beauty--womanhood's portion.
+
+ Mrs. C.  She has a right to her education. I can not wrong my
+          child.
+
+ Poe.     I will teach her--teach her more than she will ever learn
+          at the great mess table of knowledge where the genius must
+          take his treacle and the blacksmith his ambrosia! O, aunt,
+          you will give her to me?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, I love you dearly,--but--my little girl--my
+          Virginia--
+
+ Poe.     (Bitterly) There is a difference then. She is yours, I am
+          not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Do not be cruel. I am a distracted mother!
+
+ Poe.     My dear aunt!
+
+          (Virginia runs into yard and flings her arms about her
+          mother)
+
+ Vir.     O, mama, uncle had to stop at Judge Carroll's and they got
+          into an argument and Mrs. Carroll said they would be at it
+          for hours--she knew by the way the judge was filling his
+          pipe--and told me to run back if I wanted to--Mama! Edgar!
+          What is the matter?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar does not want you to leave home, dear.
+
+ Poe.     Tell her all, aunt. (Mrs. Clemm is silent. Poe takes
+          Virginia's hand)
+
+ Poe.     Virginia, you who have the face of a houri, the form of a
+          sylph, and the heart of an angel, will you be my wife?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     My gentle one, can I not teach you to love me?
+
+ Vir.     Teach me? Ah, I love you now, Edgar!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     I do! I do, mama! And oh, what happiness beyond my
+          dream--to be--his wife!
+
+          (Poe embraces her gently and draws her toward the garden,
+          right. They go out slowly. Mrs. Clemm turns toward the
+          cottage, weeping. At the step she hesitates, looks toward
+          the garden, and slowly goes after them, murmuring
+          distractedly)
+
+ Zu.      (Who has observed the scene with growing horror) Fo' de
+          Lawd, fo' de Lawd, bless dem two babies! O, de signs am
+          all wrong! Miss Babylam' came back when she done start
+          away! An' Freddy bird hop right on my ol' wool dis
+          mawnin', kase why, he want tell me sumpin gwine happen to
+          Babylam'. An', oh, dis po' ol' niggah is kilt, kase dis is
+          de day Miss Babylam's fadder done die! De missus she go
+          'bout cryin' dis mawnin, an' I allus 'member she do dat
+          dis bery day! Wha' make Mars Nelson come fo' Babylam'? O,
+          fo de Lawd, fo de Lawd! (Tat and Bony stare at their
+          mother in terror as she proceeds) I see de black hawk what
+          flies outen de dead swamp! Ooo! I see knives a drippin'
+          an' guns a poppin'! Oooooooo! I see de coffin, de
+          coffin--an' it's all dark night, an' de rain comin' down
+          de chimney--an' de wind--de wind--it say "Ooooooooooo!"
+          (Bends her knees and body, and stares moaning. Tat and
+          Bony cling to her skirts. She turns on them with a scream,
+          at which they tumble to the ground) Wha' yo' doin' heah,
+          yo' black no 'count niggahs?
+
+          (Enter from the gate the old minister, Doctor Barlow)
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Good morning, Mum Zurie. You seem to be agitated. Can
+          I help you?
+
+ Zu.      Lawd, no! beg yo' pahdon, sah! I's jes so mighty tickled!
+          Dese heah two niggahs so comicky like! Lawd, no, I wasn't
+          alligated at all, beg yo' pahdon, sah!
+
+ Doctor B.
+          I'm glad to hear it, Zurie. Is your mistress at home?
+
+ Zu.      Yes, sah. Dey all be in de gahden.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          I'll just take a walk in there then.
+
+          (Exit, right)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' make me le'm go in de gahden? My brain it jes all
+          wool and no sense at all! Wha' now he fin' Mars Edgah
+          kissin' Miss Babylam'? Well, ain't dey gwine ter be
+          married? Married! O, lawd! (Throws her apron over her head
+          and sits on the ground. Re-enter Mrs. Clemm and Doctor
+          Barlow. He carries his hat in one hand and mops his brow
+          with the other)
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Well, well, well! Upon my word! Your nephew--pardon
+          me--is possessed of a rather impetuous spirit--rather
+          impetuous, pardon me!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Doctor Barlow, what must I do? You heard him! He
+          wants to be married now--this hour!
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Trust me, Mrs. Clemm, I shall perform no ceremony
+          without your full consent.
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, I am sure of that! But must I consent? If I refuse
+          him he may take her away from me. And Nelson will make
+          trouble if we wait. Edgar will let no one oppose him.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          _I_ should not attempt it, Mrs. Clemm.
+
+ Mrs. C.  If it _is_ to be, it is better to let it be now. What
+          makes me so helpless is the fact that Virginia is against
+          me. She loves him.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Naturally, Mrs. Clemm, naturally.
+
+          (They enter the cottage)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' dat man talk so now? He better quit preachin' ef he
+          can't hep folks no more 'n dat! Sho', ol' Zurie hussef
+          know dat much!
+
+          (Enter from the road a swarm of girls. They wear graceful
+          organdie gowns, and large ricestraw hats trimmed with bows
+          and streamers. Some carry baskets, which they drop, and
+          all troop about the yard)
+
+ Gertrude.
+          Where's Virginia, Mum Zurie?
+
+ Zu.      (Hesitating) She wa' in de house 'bout so long ago.
+
+ Ger.     I'll see!
+
+ Zu.      Wait a minute! Mis' Clemm she an' de minister talkin' on
+          impo'tant business. Maybe it's dat mortgage, I dunno!
+          (Grimaces)
+
+ Ger.     We'll go into the garden then. (All start, right)
+
+ Zu.      Law, you jes oughter see dat cherry tree hangin' full by
+          de back gate!
+
+ Girls.   O! O! O! (They rush off, disappearing behind the cottage.
+          Re-enter Poe and Virginia from the garden as Mrs. Clemm
+          appears at the front door)
+
+ Vir.     O, 'tis too sweet to be true! How have I won you, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     By beauty, that speaks loudest when most silent. (Mrs.
+          Clemm meets them) God bless you, aunt. I see 'yes' in your
+          eyes. You could not deny me.
+
+ Mrs. C.  No.
+
+ Poe.     Run, Virginia, and put on your fairy's dress! I want you
+          to look as if you were leaping out of a flower into my
+          heart! (Virginia goes in) O this beautiful world! Just to
+          live, my aunt! Is it not enough? Literature is disease!
+          The sick-robe of the soul! Who can write that does not
+          _live_--and who that _lives_ would write! But I must do
+          it--I must work for her. Not a wind shall blow upon my
+          Virginia! I will find the fairy paths for her feet! Not a
+          satyr shall leer from the wood! She will be ready soon. I
+          shall wait for her in the orchard. I would not see her
+          again until she is mine--all mine!
+
+          (Exit, left, singing)
+
+                  'Come, Apollo's pipes are merry--'
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm goes in)
+
+ Zu.      (Rising) I don' reckon it make no difference 'bout dis
+          heah bush now! (Goes to side door and sits on step
+          disconsolately. The girls come running back)
+
+ Mabel.   Here's the finest cherry on the tree for the prettiest
+          mouth! Open, who gets it! (Girls open their mouths. Mabel
+          eats cherry)
+
+ Gertrude.
+          O, vanity!
+
+ Mab.     No, I just took it for Virginia.
+
+ Annie.   Let's play _Ant'ny Over_ while we're waiting! Where's a
+          ball? Bony, get a ball!
+
+ Bony.    Can't do it, missis! Y'all los' it las' time yo's all
+          here!
+
+ Dora.    _Marlow Bright_ then! Half with me and half with Mabel!
+          (Girls divide, the two companies taking opposite bases
+          some distance apart)
+
+ Dora.    Marlow, marlow, marlow bright!
+          How many miles to the old turnpike?
+
+ Mab.     Three score and ten!
+
+ Dora.    Can we get there by candle light?
+
+ Mab.     Yes, if your toes are tripping light!
+
+ Dora.    Any robbers on the way?
+
+ Mab.     Three blind witches, so they say,
+          And Robin Hood with all his _men_!
+
+          (With the last word the girls exchange bases, the
+          travellers, with Dora, trying to reach the opposite
+          base without being caught by the robbers with Mabel.
+          Virginia comes to the door of cottage)
+
+ Annie.   There's Virginia! (Girls stop playing as Virginia joins
+          them)
+
+ Gert.    How pretty you look!
+
+ Mab.     You're a _real_ nymph!
+
+ Annie.   Come, let's be off now! (Picks up a basket)
+
+ Vir.     Girls--I--there isn't going to be any picnic.
+
+ Girls.   No picnic!
+
+ Vir.     But a wedding.
+
+ Girls.   A wedding! Where? Where?
+
+ Vir.     Right here--under the bay tree.
+
+ Girls.   Who? Who?
+
+ Vir.     Why--cousin Edgar--and--
+
+ Girls.   You! you! (All talk at once in excited babble. Virginia
+          breaks from them and runs into the house. Girls keep
+          tumultuous talk partly distinguishable)
+
+ Gert.    He's so handsome!
+
+ Sallie.  He's a prince!
+
+ Annie.   Too young to be married!
+
+ Ethel.   He's twenty!
+
+ Gladys.  Older!
+
+ Mab.     No!
+
+ Mamie.   Virginia is a baby!
+
+ Alma.    She's taller than any of us!
+
+ Annie.   But younger!
+
+ Sallie.  Yonder's Allie Kirby!
+
+ Mamie.   Won't she be surprised! I wasn't one bit!
+
+ Annie.   Nor I!
+
+ Other Girls.
+          Nor I! Nor I!
+
+ Ethel.   I'll tell her!
+
+ Annie.   No, let me!
+
+ Other Girls.
+          I will! I will!
+
+          (As Allie enters all the girls rush to her and talk at
+          once, trying to tell her the news. Mrs. Clemm and Virginia
+          come out of the house and join them)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My little yard never held so many flowers before.
+
+ Allie.   Is it true, Mrs. Clemm?
+
+ Annie.   Of course it is! But you're not going to let him take her
+          away from us!
+
+ Mrs. C.  No, my dears. She will be one of you still.
+
+ Vir.     Where is Edgar?
+
+ Bony.    'Deed, he wah in de orchard 'bout two drecklys ago.
+
+ Vir.     He doesn't know I'm ready. I'll go tell him!
+
+ Girls.   Do! do!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Daughter!
+
+ Girls.   Do let her go, Mrs. Clemm!
+
+ Mab.     We'll all go! What fun!
+
+ Gert.    We'll play 'hunt the bridegroom!'
+
+          (Girls run off, disappearing in various directions)
+
+ Mrs. C.  What will Doctor Barlow think? (Goes in. Allie, the last
+          of the girls, pauses as she passes to the side door where
+          Zurie is sitting)
+
+ Allie.   Why, Mum Zurie, you look as if Miss Virginia were going to
+          be buried instead of married.
+
+ Zu.      (Jumping at the word 'buried') Sho' now, can't Zurie hab
+          de toothache wheneber she please, missus?
+
+ Allie.   Toothache? O, I'm sorry, Mum Zurie.
+
+ Zu.      Mars Edgah he's a mighty fine young man! Yo' won't see no
+          sech grow up roun' _heah_!
+
+ Allie.   But what a pity he isn't rich!
+
+ Zu.      Rich? Wha' fo' Mars Edgah want to be rich? All he got to
+          do is jes scribble, scribble on a piece o' papah, an' de
+          gol' come rollin' down de chimney! Rich! Yo' better say
+          yo' prayers yo' get a Mars Edgah too!
+
+ Allie.   I'll get you to pray for me, Mum Zurie.
+
+          (Runs away laughing)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' fo' now she say I look lak Miss Babylam' gwine ter be
+          buried? O, de good Lawd hep ol' Zurie!
+
+          (Goes in. Enter Poe, left. He is moody and disturbed)
+
+ Poe.     I feel it--a wind from out that solitude. It calls me back
+          ... it calls me back....
+
+ Vir.     (Without, calling) Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Sweet voice from the fields of the sun! (Prays) Jehovah,
+          guide thou me! (Virginia peers around a shrub) Who could
+          lock life's door on such a face? It is God's gift. I take
+          it. (Virginia comes to him slowly. He takes her in his
+          arms. Mrs. Clemm and the minister come out of the house
+          and pause on the steps looking at them. The girls come
+          rushing back laughing and shouting, and at sight of Poe
+          and Virginia become suddenly silent)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene I: Interior of Clemm cottage. A large room simply furnished.
+Low fire burning in fireplace. Poe at table writing. Suddenly
+drops pen and picks up two letters)
+
+ Poe.     I must destroy these. She must not know.... My wife....
+          (drops letters absentmindedly) ... Married. Married? What
+          spirit so subtly fine can mingle here?... Back, back, ye
+          troops of devils damned or angels blest--I know not which
+          to call ye--summoning me to those lone regions of the mind
+          where none may follow! None?... Helen could tread those
+          airy worlds with me!... Helen!... Far, far as zenith stars
+          that ride the blue meridian thou art, and I, deep, deep,
+          to nadir sink! (Drops his head to the table)
+
+ Virginia. (Without) Edgar! (He lifts his head smiling as she
+          enters)
+
+ Vir.     (Holding out a book) O, I know the alphabet! I can say it
+          all! (Gives him the book) Watch now, and see if I make a
+          mistake!
+
+ Edgar.   (Smiling.) I'll hardly need the book, dear.
+
+ Vir.     (Pouting.) O, I forget that you know everything!
+
+ Poe.     Not everything. (Taking her face between his hands as she
+          sits on his knee, the book falling at their feet) I do not
+          know how to be happy when this beautiful face is gone. My
+          wife is the fairest lady in all the world.
+
+ Vir.     Then what does it matter about this old Greek, Edgar?
+          (Touching book with her foot)
+
+ Poe.     Just this. You can not always be young and beautiful, and
+          when you are no longer the fairest I want you to be the
+          wisest.
+
+ Vir.     And if I am you will love me always?
+
+ Poe.     Always.
+
+ Vir.     Give me the book! (Picks it up) O, I will eat Greek! I
+          will breakfast with the heroes, dine with the bards, and
+          sup with the gods! But what a pity one must begin with the
+          alphabet to end with--what were those lovely lines I found
+          in your book yesterday?
+
+                  And Helen on the walls rose like a star,
+                  And every Trojan said 'she's worth our blood,'
+                  And every Greek ploughed new his way to her--
+
+          Go on, Edgar! I'm sure you know them!
+
+          (As she repeats the lines he presses her head to his
+          shoulder and puts his hand over her eyes. His face is full
+          of agony, but there is only sweetness in his voice.)
+
+ Poe.     Not now, my little wife. Some other time.
+
+ Vir.     Helen is such a beautiful name. I wish I had been named
+          Helen.
+
+ Poe.     Thank God you are not!
+
+ Vir.     (Looking up hastily) Why--
+
+ Poe.     I mean that I want you to be just as you are--my
+          Virginia--nothing else!
+
+ Vir.     (Seeing he is troubled) I am keeping you from your work.
+          You should have sent me away. I'll be angry with you,
+          Edgar, if you let me disturb you. Now I'm going to find
+          the last rose of summer for you.
+
+ Poe.     But you haven't said your lesson.
+
+ Vir.     O! (begins) Alpha, beta,--now if I say them right you are
+          to give me a kiss for reward!
+
+ Poe.     And if you miss one, I'll give you a kiss for
+          encouragement.
+
+ Vir.     (Seeing letter) O, a letter from New York! You've made me
+          your secretary, you know, and of course I must read your
+          letters! (Picks it up and glances at it) He says Mr.
+          Willis will certainly give you a place on his paper.
+          (Drops letter and looks at him quietly) It is your chance
+          for fortune.
+
+ Poe.     I am not going, love.
+
+ Vir.     If you go now it means success, if you wait failure.
+
+ Poe.     I shall not go, Virginia.
+
+ Vir.     If you were not married you would go.
+
+ Poe.     Then I am glad I can not go.
+
+ Vir.     But you _can_ go, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     My darling, I will never take you away from your mocking
+          birds and roses. Don't you think any more about it. Run
+          away now and find me a flower. You will have to look sharp
+          under the leaves, for the wind is whistling to-day. Our
+          little sham winter has begun to bluster. (Exit Virginia)
+          She shall not suffer. She shall not! Though my heart
+          surges like a prisoned sea hers shall not move her bosom's
+          alabaster!... Why didn't I burn that letter. (Throws it
+          into the fire. Take up the other one) I must keep the
+          lawyer's. I shall need it. (Puts it in his pocket) Now
+          work--work--work--(Resumes writing) '_The Kingdom of the
+          Sun is peopled with beings whose distinguishing attribute
+          is color instead of form as with us. This color varies
+          with each thought of the spirit that it invests, and also
+          with the eye that beholds it. There is no need to pellet
+          the ear with rude words, for the most refined meanings and
+          emotions are conveyed by these subtle variations of color
+          coming and going like breathing light. Were--_' (Enter
+          Mrs. Clemm)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, dear, your breakfast has been waiting two hours.
+
+ Poe.     O, thank you, aunt. Don't trouble about me this morning. I
+          shall want nothing.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But, Edgar, my son, I must speak. You do not sleep and
+          eat as people should who wish to live long for those who
+          love them.
+
+ Poe.     Dear aunt, pray--we'll talk about it some other time. I
+          _must_ work now!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I am sorry to disturb you, love, but there is one question
+          I must ask you. Have you heard from the lawyer? (Poe is
+          silent) A letter came. I thought you would tell me, and
+          not force me to ask about what I must know. Is the place
+          sold?
+
+ Poe.     No.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But it will be? We must lose our home?
+
+ Poe.     No, darling mother! I am going to pay off everything! This
+          very article I am writing will bring me fame if I finish
+          it. So please help me by not worrying one bit, and don't
+          let our Virginia suspect anything.
+
+ Mrs. C.  It would kill her! O, Edgar, I have been wanting to tell
+          you how grateful I am to you for your gentleness to her.
+          Though she looks so strong, she has been frail from her
+          birth. I know that she must die early. I ought to have
+          told you--that day--but I could think of nothing. You will
+          forgive me, Edgar? She is such a child. I wonder at your
+          patience. But you will never be impatient with her, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     If I am, may God that moment end my villain's life! Go
+          now, sweet mother, for I must work, and remember that you
+          are to be troubled about nothing. (Exit Mrs. Clemm, right,
+          rear) Goodbye, Art! Thou pure chrystalline dream! I must
+          turn my brain into a mint and coin money! O, Poesy, thou
+          only divine mistress given to man, some day I will return
+          to thee! (Writes) '_Were zephyrs made visible by means of
+          ever changing hues--_' (Bony and Tat rush into the room.
+          Poe glares at them with a face of fury. They turn to fly
+          panic-stricken. Tat trips on a chair and lies moaning. Poe
+          goes to her)
+
+ Poe.     (Gently) Are you hurt, Tatsy?
+
+ Bony.    (At door, turning back, suddenly impudent at sound of
+          Poe's softened voice) She jes sullin', Mars Edgah. She
+          play possum like dat wid me!
+
+ Poe.     Get out, you little imp! (Bony vanishes) Where are you
+          hurt, Tatsy? (She moans bitterly) Poor little girl! Her
+          foot is twisted. A sprain perhaps. (Picks her up and
+          carries her to sofa) Never mind! I've got a fairy in a
+          bottle will cure that in a jiffy. Just rub it on, and ho,
+          Tatsy is well again!
+
+          (Enter Zurie, Bony clinging to her)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' my chile? Lawdy God, my chile sho' 'nuf hurt! (Goes
+          to Tatsy)
+
+ Poe.     It's the foot, Zurie. Be careful!
+
+ Zu.      Yas, I's seen dat foot befoh! (Gives foot a yank) Dat's
+          her ol' trick, Mars Edgah. She jes foolin' yo'! Don' yo'
+          be so soft hearted next time. Yo' jes take her by de back
+          ob de neck and wring her head off!
+
+ Poe.     I certainly will!
+
+          (Exit Zurie, drawing Tat. Poe goes back to his work.
+          Groans, and looks with desperation at his manuscript)
+
+ Poe.     O, if this eludes me! I must not lose it now! (Writes)
+          '_In this Kingdom of the Sun there is a central creating
+          light that plays upon these color-beings with its own
+          transmuting--_'
+
+          (Re-enter Mrs. Clemm, bearing a tray)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear, I've brought you some toast and an egg.
+
+ Poe.     (Jumping up and staring at her) They don't eat toast and
+          eggs in the Kingdom of the Sun!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me! It's just something I'm writing here. But for
+          God's sake take the stuff away!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm turns to go, the tray trembling in her hands.
+          Poe runs to her and kisses her) You sweetest and best of
+          mothers, don't you see that if I eat this I'll spend the
+          next two hours digesting toast and eggs, and if I don't
+          eat it I'll be making our fortune, putting a roof over our
+          heads, and keeping our Virginia happy!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I only meant to be kind, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     I know you did, and you're my darling mother,--but don't
+          be kind any more.
+
+          (Exit Mrs. Clemm. Poe sits despairingly at table. Enter
+          Ethel and Annie)
+
+ Eth.     O, Edgar, where is Virginia? We want her to go nutting
+          with us.
+
+ Annie.   We shall have her now! You shan't keep her all to yourself
+          just because you've married her!
+
+ Poe.     Take her by all means!
+
+ Eth.     You needn't be vicious about it. Where is she?
+
+ Poe.     I don't know,--and pardon if I say that just at this
+          moment I don't care!
+
+          (Gathers up papers and goes toward stairway in corner of
+          room)
+
+ Annie.   You needn't run from us. I'm sure we're glad to go. I'll
+          find Virginia.
+
+ Eth.     And I'll write that note to Gladys while you're gone.
+          (Seats herself in Poe's chair. Exit Annie, left, rear)
+          Come back, if you want to, Edgar. You won't disturb me at
+          all. (Writes. Poe pauses on stairway and looks at her.
+          Ethel lifts her eyes) You needn't look so far to see me.
+          I'm not the North Pole! What _are_ you thinking of, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     Of what Anacreon said to a fly that lighted on his brow
+          when he was composing an ode to Venus.
+
+ Ethel.   O! What was it?
+
+ Poe.             Away, thou rude and slight impertinence,
+                  That with thy puny and detested bill
+                  Dost think to feed on immortality.
+
+          (Goes upstairs)
+
+ Ethel.   Beast! (Writes) Virginia spoils him. If I had him now I'd
+          soon make a nice comfortable husband out of him!... An
+          envelope?... Yes.... (Takes one) Stamp?... Yes.... (Takes
+          one) I'll get Bony to mail this for me.
+
+          (Exit, right, rear. Poe comes down stairway)
+
+ Poe.     Gone? Deliverance! It's too chilly for work upstairs.
+          (Coughs) What shall I do here this winter with only one
+          comfortable room in the house? Keep warm by the fire in my
+          brain, I suppose. (Sits and writes. Virginia is heard
+          without, humming a song. She enters, left, front, with a
+          rose in her hand)
+
+ Vir.     Darling, I found it deep under the leaves--Oh! (Starts out
+          softly. Poe writes on without looking up. At the door she
+          turns and throws the rose towards him. It falls onto the
+          table and upsets ink over papers)
+
+ Poe.     (Leaping up) By every fiend in hell!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm rushes in, followed by Zurie, Tat and Bony)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My son, what is the matter?
+
+ Poe.     See what that child has done!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (With dignity) Your wife, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     My wife! Great God! O, Helen! Helen! (Rushes from the
+          room, left rear)
+
+ Bony.    I tol' yo' he wah mad! I done tol' yo' Mars Edgah gone
+          mad! He look at me jes so! (Mimics)
+
+ Tat.     (Looking through window) Dah he go now troo de orchard jes
+          a runnin'!
+
+ Bony.    Obah de fence!
+
+ Tat.     An' no hat on!
+
+ Zu.      Stop yo' mouf an' come out o' heah, yo' wussless niggahs!
+          I make yo' know wha' yo' b'longs!
+
+          (Takes them out)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Virginia! What an hour for you!
+
+ Vir.     What an hour for _him_, mamma!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Strange child! Not to think of yourself!
+
+ Vir.     How can I, when he is suffering so?
+
+ Mrs. C.  My angel daughter!
+
+ Vir.     (Kissing her) We will be brave, my mother. I hear the
+          girls. Go to them one moment--do! (Exit Mrs. Clemm) ...
+          Helen! Dear God above! (Drops on her knees by a chair.
+          After a moment of agony, rises, goes to table and looks at
+          papers) What is it I have ruined? (Reads silently) O, what
+          beauty!... I think I can make this out and copy it for
+          him. But now he may never finish it. The heavenly moment
+          is gone ... and I robbed him of it.... I, who should guard
+          him and keep the world away. That is my little part--too
+          little, God knows! O, if I could really help him!
+
+          (Enter Ethel and Annie)
+
+ Eth.     O, Virginia, now that we're rid of that troublesome
+          husband let's have one of our good old-fashioned times!
+          We'll sit by the fire and tell tales. It's too cold anyway
+          to go to the woods.
+
+ Vir.     (Absently) Edgar is there.
+
+ Annie.   And there let him stay! I'm sure it's better for both of
+          you. You hang about him too much, Virginia. He'll quit
+          loving you, mamma says he will, if you're not more
+          sensible. Help me draw up this sofa, Ethel. (They pull
+          sofa to the fire. Annie settles herself comfortably) I
+          feel just like giving you a lecture, Virginia. You must
+          make Edgar go out more. Anybody will get queer shut up
+          here. The other day when mamma asked him to come to our
+          party he wasn't more than half polite when he refused, and
+          we were going to have Mr. Melrose Libbie to meet him too.
+          Said his work would keep him at home! Now you know,
+          Virginia, that poetry isn't work. It's just dash off a
+          line now and then, and there you are! Mr. Libbie said so.
+          O, he had the sweetest thing on the woman's page in last
+          Sunday's paper! Did you see it? You'd better call Edgar's
+          attention to it. Mamma read it to all of us at the
+          breakfast table, and--
+
+ Eth.     O, stop your chatter, Annie, and let Virginia tell us one
+          of her fairy stories just as she used to do. We'll forget
+          all about Edgar and make believe she isn't married at all.
+
+ Vir.     (Painfully) Forgive me, dear girls, but I've some work
+          that I must do to-day.
+
+ Mabel.   Must do! Who ever heard the like?
+
+ Vir.     I was wrong. It is some work that I choose to do--that it
+          will be my happiness to do.
+
+ Ethel.   For Edgar?
+
+ Vir.     Yes.
+
+ Annie.   You are a little fool!
+
+ Vir.     Yes ... I am a little fool.
+
+ Ethel.   O, there's help for you if you know it!
+
+ Vir.     If I were not a little fool I could be of more help to
+          Edgar.
+
+ Ethel and Annie.
+          Oh!
+
+ Annie.   (Jumping up) Then we can't stay to-day!
+
+ Vir.     I am so sorry--but--
+
+ Annie.   O, we might as well give you up first as last!
+          (Exeunt girls)
+
+ Vir.     (Sits at table and stares at the papers) ... A little fool
+          ... a little fool.
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Same room as before. Night. Virginia sits motionless in
+the dim firelight. Mrs. Clemm comes softly down the stairs)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     Naughty mamma! You said you would sleep. What a story to
+          tell your little girl!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Advancing) The rain--wakes me. (Comes to fire) Did Edgar
+          take his cloak, dear?
+
+ Vir.     No, mother.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Are you not cold in that dress, darling?
+
+ Vir.     O no--quite comfortable--and Edgar likes me in white, you
+          know. (A window rattles. Both look anxiously toward the
+          door)
+
+ Mrs. C.  What a gust!... I wonder what winter is like at the north.
+          (Virginia looks at her quickly, and both drop their eyes)
+          ... To think of him out on a night like this! And he has
+          not been well lately. Had he no purpose? Did he say
+          _nothing_ when he went out?
+
+ Vir.     He said he was going to seek Truth.
+
+ Mrs. C.  And what does he mean by truth, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     O, I don't know. When he is talking I understand, but when
+          he is gone it all fades and I know nothing about it.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nor does Edgar, mark me, dear. He is trying to know things
+          that the wise God decreed should remain unknown to mortals.
+          That is what makes him so unhappy.... Did he eat his
+          breakfast this morning, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     No, mamma.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Did he take any food yesterday?... Tell me, daughter. I
+          can not help you if I do not know. (Virginia begins to
+          sob) There! there, darling! A little patience and we'll
+          get him over this.
+
+ Vir.     O, mother!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Come here, my little girl. (Takes Virginia in her arms)
+          Now tell me! Don't let the heart go heavy when mother ears
+          are waiting.
+
+ Vir.     He ... goes out at night ... and I follow him because it
+          kills me to think of him wandering alone. We were on
+          Burney hill last night.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Five miles!... Then that is what these pale cheeks and
+          dark eyes mean! And Edgar let you go!
+
+ Vir.     No! I _go_! I am not a child, mother. Ah, I knew you would
+          not understand!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, yes, I do, Virginia. I know he suffers, but you--
+
+ Vir.     Don't speak of me! You shame me! Were I to lie down on
+          those coals my torture would be less than his. Remember
+          that, mother. When you doubt, as you surely will, remember
+          that I told you, and I know. His mind is a _living_ thing,
+          throbbing through his body and leaving him no shield of
+          flesh. O, mamma, help him! Promise me! You will never
+          forsake him?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Never, my love.
+
+ Vir.     I would not have told you, but my strength is gone, and
+          somebody must know,--somebody who is strong. (A gust
+          shakes the window) O, my darling! Out in that blackness
+          alone! And if I were there I could say nothing. That is
+          the pity of it, mamma. I have no words, and thought
+          without tongue is nothing so long as we are mortal and
+          wear these bodies. Some day it may be enough just to _be_
+          a soul, but not now--not now!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my daughter!
+
+ Vir.     Promise me, mamma, that if I die you will find Helen.
+          _She_ could help him!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Rising) Virginia, if you say another word like that I
+          shall think you are mad--or I am! (Bursts into weeping)
+
+ Vir.     Darling, darling mother! Now I have given you all my
+          burdens you will grow weak under them, and I want
+          strength, strength by my side!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Calm) You must go to bed, dear. I will wait for Edgar.
+
+ Vir.     No, no!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I will coax him to eat something.
+
+ Vir.     (Smiling sadly) Coax him, mamma?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, dear. Go now.
+
+ Vir.     I can not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  I command you, my daughter.
+
+ Vir.     Please do not command me. You have never had to pardon
+          disobedience in me.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nor shall I have cause now. Obey me, Virginia.
+
+ Vir.     Would you send me into hell, mother?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Daughter!
+
+ Vir.     That is what a bed is to me when Edgar is out like this.
+
+ Mrs. C.  You make too much of these wanderings. Night and day are
+          alike to him.
+
+ Vir.     Ah, it is not the night that I fear!... Go, mamma! It is
+          you who must rest. O, how we need these strong arms--this
+          clear head! I shall nod in my chair for the thought of you
+          getting your needed rest will bring the winks to my own
+          eyes. Come! (Draws her toward stairway) I promise you that
+          I will sleep in the big chair as snug and tight as kitty
+          herself. (Kisses her)
+
+ Mrs. C.  (On the stairs) I can not leave my sick child to watch.
+          You ask me to do an inhuman thing, Virginia. I will not
+          go.
+
+ Vir.     Mother!... Do not let me hurt you ... the dearest, the
+          most unselfish of mothers ... but it is better for me to
+          meet my husband alone.
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm turns and goes slowly upstairs. Virginia goes
+          back to fire)
+
+ Vir.     Watch and pray! I can but watch and pray!... He said 'twas
+          love he wanted ... and I brought him that ... love that
+          shakes but with the globe itself. But it does not help ...
+          'twas all wrong ... all wrong! (Weeps. Rises, and busies
+          herself about an oven on the hearth) Three times I have
+          prepared his supper that it might be fresh enough to tempt
+          him. But now ... I am so tired. I must try to keep this
+          warm. The sight of it may make him angry ... but I must
+          try. (Arranges some clothes on a chair) He will be so wet
+          with the rain. Ah, I can do nothing ... nothing. (Looks
+          toward door) He is coming! Strength, strength. O my God!
+
+          (Poe throws door open. Turns and speaks as if to
+          companions outside)
+
+ Poe.     Goodnight, goodnight, brave Beauty's fearless angels!
+          (Comes in) Well, Dame Venus, what thoughts for your
+          hobbling Vulcan?
+
+ Vir.     (Brightly) My Hermes, you mean. I'm sure you're
+          feather-footed, you go so far and fast.
+
+ Poe.     Why, sweet-mouth, a kiss for that! (Kisses her)
+
+ Vir.     O, my love, you are dripping with the rain.
+
+ Poe.     Well, and so are the trees. Not a leaf out there but is
+          shaking her pearls. Who flies from Nature but man? Let her
+          be terrible, glorious, worthy of his eyes and his heart,
+          and forthwith he takes to his hole.
+
+ Vir.     I hate her to-night. She kept me from following you.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia! (Seizes her hands, crushing them in his, and
+          gazing at her with fierce earnestness) Never do that
+          again! Never again! (Lets her hands fall, and turns toward
+          door as if he must go out. Her eyes follow him eagerly,
+          but she tries to speak carelessly)
+
+ Vir.     Here are your dry things, dear, and I've kept something
+          hot for your supper.
+
+ Poe.     (Turning) Yes ... this is a very valuable skin of mine.
+          Make it comfortable. But what of me, Virginia? That
+          something here burning with fires that would brighten
+          Olympos' head! Have you no welcome for me? (Virginia is
+          silent) Why are you so pale? Light all the lamps! You
+          should not sit in the dark. There are no stars in this
+          den!
+
+ Vir.     (Hurriedly lighting lamp) I'm sorry, love, but last night
+          you wanted the dark--don't you remember?
+
+ Poe.     No, I don't remember. Memory is a hyena, always scratching
+          up our dead selves! You must not remember, Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear.
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me, love. O, I am driving myself mad! Selling
+          myself to the devil of prose that I may bring in that
+          fool's litter--money, money, money--and for what? That we
+          may feed the flesh that devours our souls, and hang such
+          rubbish as this on our backs! (Sweeps garments from chair)
+          O, Virginia, if you were brave enough we would forget
+          these rags of the body and go like spirits to meet our
+          brothers of the night! They are all out there! Will you go
+          with me, my bride?
+
+ Vir.     O, Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Ha! You would rather ask them in to have something dry and
+          something hot! But I must have the air! (Throws door open.
+          Lightning flashes on falling rain. Virginia shrinks from
+          the wind) Hear those winds! Gathering lost souls to the
+          bosom of Night! Feel those drops! Every one of them the
+          tear of a fallen god! O, is it nothing but rain? Ha! ha!
+          ha! (Virginia coughs. Poe closes the door hastily. She
+          coughs again)
+
+ Poe.     Don't, Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear.
+
+ Poe.     My angel! (Embraces her. She coughs) O, it is these wet
+          clothes! (Throws off coat, picks up dressing gown from the
+          door and puts it on hurriedly)
+
+ Vir.     (Eagerly) Your slippers too, dear!
+
+ Poe.     Yes, yes, my slippers! (Puts them on. Sits in big chair,
+          taking her on his knee, and embracing her tenderly) What
+          made you cough, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     O, 'twas nothing, dear. 'Tis all right now. Everything is
+          all right.
+
+ Poe.     Is it, little wisdom? O, ye gods!
+
+ Vir.     (Concealing anxiety) Darling?
+
+ Poe.     What, my beautiful earth-bird?
+
+ Vir.     You will take your supper now?
+
+ Poe.     (Impatiently) No, no! Is there any wine in the house?
+
+ Vir.     Yes, love, but--
+
+ Poe.     I must have it! Quick! I shall faint.
+
+ Vir.     (Rising) No, Edgar. It is food you need.
+
+ Poe.     (Rising) Where is it?
+
+ Vir.     O, my dearest!
+
+ Poe.     Tell me, Virginia! (Goes toward a closet)
+
+ Vir.     (Getting before him) If you were reaching for a cup of
+          poison, Edgar, I would risk my life, ay, risk your love,
+          to dash it from you. And wine is your poison. I can not
+          let you drink death.
+
+ Poe.     Death! It is all the life that is left to me, and you deny
+          it!
+
+ Vir.     Be quiet, love. You will wake our mother.
+
+ Poe.     Down, gods, and let the lady sleep!
+
+ Vir.     She is not well, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     But she will be well to-morrow, and I--I am immortally
+          sick and you deny me a drop of wine.
+
+ Vir.     O, my poor boy! I'm so sorry for you!
+
+ Poe.     And is that all, O Heaven? I'm her poor boy, and she is so
+          sorry for me! Why, here's a heart that loosens in its
+          throbs the birth-song of new stars! Come, strike thy chime
+          with mine, and though all bells upon the planet jingle, in
+          us will still be music!
+
+ Vir.     O, Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Well?
+
+ Vir.     I can not speak.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia, Virginia! I pour out my soul to you! I keep back
+          no drop of its sea! From the infinite, shrouded sources of
+          life I rush to you in a thousand singing rivers, only to
+          waste, to burn, to die on the sands of silence! (She
+          remains motionless, her head bowed) ... It is so still
+          upon the eternal peaks. Will you not come up with me and
+          be the bride of my dreams? You need not speak ... you need
+          not say a word. Only put the light of poesy in your eyes
+          and let me _see_ that through the channel of their beauty
+          course the mysteries that begin with God and end not with
+          time! (She looks at him. He gazes into her eyes) ... Tears
+          ... only tears. (Turns away) Can a soul's _eyes_ be dumb?
+          (She sits, weeping silently) ... Come then ... talk of
+          what you will. Only talk! You have read a little Byron
+          to-day? The new magazine came? And you have made me a
+          handkerchief? (She sobs. He looks at her remorsefully,
+          crosses the room, gets her harp and brings it to the
+          fireside) Come ... sing to me, Virginia. You can do that.
+
+ Vir.     (Taking harp) What shall I sing, dear?
+
+ Poe.     Something to charm the very heart of Æolus! That will turn
+          a tempest into a violet's breath!
+
+ Vir.     Ah, my love!
+
+ Poe.     O, sing--sing anything!
+
+ Vir.     (Sings)
+
+                  Great and calm, cool-bosomed blue,
+                  Take me to the heart of you!
+                  Not where thy blue mystery
+                  Sweeps the surface of the sea,
+                  Leaving in a dying gleam
+                  Living trouble of a dream;
+                  Not where loves of heaven lie
+                  Rosy 'gainst the upper sky
+                  Burning with an ardent touch
+
+                  Where an angel kissed too much;
+                  But where sight and sound come not,
+                  All of life and love forgot,
+                  All of Heaven forfeited
+                  For thy deep Nirvana bed.
+                  Wide and far enfolding blue,
+                  Take me to the heart--
+
+          (Her voice breaks suddenly)
+
+ Poe.     Virginia! (She coughs) Don't! (Her cough increases. She
+          puts her handkerchief to her lips. Poe takes it from her
+          hand and looks at it.) Blood! (Throws handkerchief into
+          the fire, and stands as if paralyzed, gazing at Virginia.
+          Falls at her feet and begins kissing her skirt) My angel!
+          my angel! I have killed my little bride!
+
+ Vir.     (Urging him gently up) No, dear. I was marked for this
+          from birth. My doom was written by Heaven, not you.
+
+ Poe.     Not doom, my Virginia! (Rising) I will save you, my
+          darling! You shall have everything! With the sickle of a
+          wish you shall harvest the earth! We will sail southern
+          seas! We will follow the Spring as she flies! I will knock
+          at the orient gates and bring thee the health of morning!
+          I'll make the world so bright for thee, Hyperion's self
+          shall wear new gold and shame remembered suns from
+          chronicle! Spring from perfection's heart shall pluck her
+          buds, and set such gloss on Nature she may laud her old
+          self in one violet's requiem! O, I'll sing the world into
+          a flower for thy bosom! My love, my love, my love! (She
+          coughs restrainedly. He hides his face till she stops)
+          Even the senseless oak velvets its rude sides to the
+          tender vine! But I--a man--O, beast too vile for hell! too
+          low to be damned!
+
+ Vir.     Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch me! is not the mark here? (Touching his brow)
+          O, where shall I hide it?
+
+ Vir.     (Drawing him to her) On my bosom, Edgar. (Presses him to
+          the large chair and sits on the arm of it, caressing him)
+          This forehead is as pure as heaven-lit ivory of angels'
+          brows!
+
+ Poe.     O, golden heart! (Kisses her over her heart) I will work
+          so hard, Virginia! We shall be rich, and I will take you
+          to some wonderful land where beauty can not die! Will you
+          forgive me then when you are bright and strong in some
+          happy isle of roses?
+
+ Vir.     I will forgive you now, dearest, if you will do one thing
+          for me.
+
+ Poe.     O, what, my darling?
+
+ Vir.     Eat the poor little supper I have cooked for you.
+
+ Poe.     Yes--yes--I'll eat it though it be hell's coals!
+
+ Vir.     Now that's a compliment to your cook, isn't it? (Takes
+          food from oven and puts it on table. Poe eats, at first
+          reluctantly, then hungrily)
+
+ Poe.     It is late--so late! O, my Lenore, you kept up for me!
+          Your weary eyes would not close until they had found their
+          lover! O, can you forgive me, and take me back to your
+          heart? You will love me again?
+
+ Vir.     Ah, Edgar, if love were enough we should always be happy.
+
+ Poe.     Love me, love me, dear! I want no more! And this cough ...
+          we shall stop all that, darling! O, how weary you must be,
+          and you tried to have everything so beautiful for me! How
+          pretty your dress is! You look like a Naiad smiling out of
+          a lily. But it's too cold! Here, I will wrap you! (Puts
+          shawl about her) Ah, little wife, little wife, what evil
+          power locked your gentle heart with mine? Bear with me,
+          love. It will all be different soon. I shall try so hard
+          the gods for pity will not let me fail! See how I have
+          eaten! You may give me more, love. You did not cook this,
+          I know. You stole it from Jove's kitchen.
+
+ Vir.     (Getting food) Yes, I did, and Jove caught me, but he let
+          me go when I told him it was for a poet.
+
+ Poe.     Little witch! (Kisses her) How happy we shall be,
+          Virginia, as soon as I have money. I shall go to New York
+          for a year. It will take only a year. Then I shall come
+          back bringing the lady Fame with me, and you must not be
+          jealous of her.
+
+ Vir.     (Slowly) You--would not--take me?
+
+ Poe.     Why, the north-wind would blow the Spring from my little
+          girl's cheek! Just a year! That is the first step--a cruel
+          one--but we shall be happy when it is over. Just a year,
+          sweetheart! I must take no chances now! I _must_ win!
+
+ Vir.     You shall not leave me! A year will not hurt me, Edgar!
+          But it would kill me to be left here ... and not know ...
+          every minute....
+
+ Poe.     Do you care so much, Lenore? Then we will both stay here.
+          It will take longer, but I will work harder--
+
+ Vir.     Enough for to-night. We are too happy for to-morrows,
+          Edgar. Now you must have a long, long sleep--
+
+ Poe.     No, no! No bed for me to-night! I must work!
+
+ Vir.     No bed, indeed! I did not say bed, my lord! You are going
+          to sit down here (Places him on footstool) and I shall sit
+          here, (settles in chair) and your head in my lap--my hands
+          on your head--and the crooningest of little songs will
+          bring you the sweetest snatch of sleep that you ever, ever
+          had!
+
+ Poe.     O, 'tis heaven, Virginia! But you are too tired, my angel.
+          _You_ must sleep.
+
+ Vir.     And so I shall when my lord shows me the way.
+
+          (Poe drops his head on her lap. She turns down light. He
+          falls asleep as she sings softly)
+
+                  Like a fallen star on the breast of the sea
+                  My lover rests on the heart of me;
+                  The lord of the tempest hies him down
+                  From his billow-crest to his cavern-throne,
+                  And 'tis peace as wide as the eye can see
+                  When my lover rests on the heart of me.
+
+          (Silence. Virginia droops in sleep. No light but dull red
+          coals.)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene I: An old bookstore, New York. Bookseller arranging books.
+Helen at one side looking over shelves. Poe enters. He wears a
+military cloak and jaunty cap. Throws book on table and whistles
+carelessly.
+
+ Bookseller. (Looking book over doubtfully)
+          Forty cents.
+
+ Poe.     (Loudly) Forty devils! (Helen turns and recognizes him. He
+          does not see her) Look at that binding. You can't get a
+          Shelley put up like that for less than ten dollars.
+
+ Hel.     (Aside) My book!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          It's badly marked.
+
+ Poe.     Marked! Of course it's marked. And every mark there worth
+          its dollar. In ten years you'll wish the marks were as
+          thick as the letters.
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Say fifty, and strike off. Not a cent more.
+
+ Poe.     Take it.
+
+ Hel.     To sell my book! (Moves slowly to door) How pale he is!
+          But he is neatly dressed. He can not need fifty cents. To
+          sell my book! I'll speak to him and see if he is past
+          shame. (Steps before Poe as he turns to go out)
+
+ Hel.     Mr. Poe! Don't you remember me? 'Tis delightful to meet an
+          old friend.
+
+ Poe.     (Bowing low) Mrs....
+
+ Hel.     Yes, I am Mrs. Bridgmore.
+
+ Poe.     My dear Mrs. Bridgmore! The pleasure of years gathers in
+          this happy moment. Are you making holiday purchases?
+
+ Hel.     No ... just poking about. I love these old stores. I see
+          you've made a sale. 'Tis a relief to get rid of old books
+          when we've lost our love for them, isn't it? They take up
+          good room on our shelves pretty much as people do in our
+          lives long after we have ceased to care for their
+          friendship. But what one is weary of another is ready to
+          take up. (To bookseller) May I see the book the gentleman
+          has just disposed of? (To Poe) Anything you have liked
+          will be sure to please me.
+
+ Poe.     O, you are mistaken! I am simply leaving the book to be
+          duplicated if possible for a friend of mine who has taken
+          a fancy to my copy. (Gesticulates to bookseller) One
+          glance, Mrs. Bridgmore, will tell you that the book is not
+          for sale.
+
+ Hel.     Ah ... of course not. Pardon the mistake. It seems to be
+          my fate to blunder where you are concerned. (Icily) Good
+          morning, Mr. Poe.
+
+          (As she is going out she drops her purse. Poe hastens to
+          pick it up and restores it to her with a bow. In doing so
+          he forgets his shabby coat and throws back his cloak over
+          his arm, exposing a badly worn sleeve. He becomes suddenly
+          conscious of her observation, and straightens up in his
+          most dignified fashion)
+
+ Hel.     Thank you. (Goes out)
+
+ Poe.     (Turning to bookseller) Here! Take your damned silver!
+          Give me my book!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          A bargain's a bargain, sir.
+
+ Poe.     Bargain! bargain! Do you call that theft a bargain? You
+          parasite! you bookgnat! You insect feeding on men's
+          brains! You worm in the corpse of genius! My book, I say,
+          or by Hector I'll tear your goose-liver from your body,
+          you pocket-itching Jacob!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Here! take it!
+
+ Poe.     There's your Judas' blood! (Throws down money and starts
+          out with the book. Enter Brackett)
+
+ Brackett. (Stopping Poe) Mr. Poe, I believe.
+
+ Poe.     Right, sir. And Brackett, I think your name was when I
+          knew you.
+
+ Bra.     Quite right, Mr. Poe. I saw you coming in here, and though
+          you have changed somewhat with the help of years I was
+          sure it was you.
+
+ Poe.     And how, Mr. Brackett, may that knowledge be of interest
+          to you?
+
+ Bra.     Well, perhaps it does concern you more than myself.
+
+ Poe.     Kindly tell me in what way that I may regret it.
+
+ Bra.     Your pen has been supplying matter for _The Comet_, I
+          believe.
+
+ Poe.     If you have any doubt of it a perusal of that magazine's
+          issues for the past two years will satisfy you.
+
+ Bra.     The returns therefrom have contributed somewhat to your
+          comfort, I suppose.
+
+ Poe.     Do you?
+
+ Bra.     Ah, I am mistaken? Then I have less hesitation to tell you
+          that the articles recently submitted are unavailable.
+
+ Poe.     _You_ tell me! What have you to do with it? Who are you?
+
+ Bra.     I am the present editor of _The Comet_.
+
+ Poe.     You!
+
+ Bra.     I! You see I am in a position to speak with
+          authority,--and it is only just to tell you that your
+          articles will meet with no further recognition in that
+          quarter.
+
+ Poe.     Brackett ... I have been very ill. I wrote those things on
+          what I believed to be my death bed. My wife....
+
+ Bra.     I should say then that you are in great need of money.
+
+ Poe.     God help me, I am! You know I am not one to beg!
+
+ Bra.     But it's beg or starve with you, eh? (Poe looks at him
+          silently) Well, I should advise you to make application
+          without loss of time to some one who does not know you
+          quite so well as the new editor of _The Comet_. Good
+          morning.
+
+ Poe.     (Calling to him as he stands in door) I say, Brackett!
+          (Brackett turns) _I_ should advise _you_ to change the
+          name of _The Comet_ as well as its editor. Suppose you
+          call it _The Falling Star_? Ha! ha! (Exit Brackett) Curse
+          me for a whining dog--but Virginia--
+
+          (Goes out)
+
+ Bookseller. (Arranging books) Queer chap. We public men get to
+          know all sorts. That book will be mine yet. It's a good
+          seller at ten dollars, and blest if I wouldn't like to
+          help the wretch out with fifty cents. He'll be back.
+
+          (Enter Helen)
+
+ Hel.     I wish to buy the book the gentleman has just left with
+          you.
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Why ma'am, he's gone and took it with him.
+
+ Hel.     Took it with him?
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Yes, ma'am, and thereby I've lost time and trade.
+          (Aside) She'd give fifteen!
+
+ Hel.     He needed money?
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Well, I should _guess_ so, ma'am. That's the last
+          book he had. He told me about it before. He's been
+          bringin' them all here. I _think_ he'll be back, ma'am,
+          and I'll keep the book for you.
+
+ Hel.     Thank you. (Turns to go. Sees letter on the floor and
+          picks it up) Why, 'tis ... he dropped it! I wonder if I
+          may ... he is suffering ... that shabby coat ... and he is
+          so proud. I think I ought to read it. I must know where to
+          find him. (Looks at letter) Fordham! (Reads)
+
+              My Dear Son: One last prayer the mother of your
+              Virginia makes to you. She is dying. Come and sit by
+              her and she will carry a smile to her grave. Do not
+              stay away because you can not bear to witness her
+              suffering,--because you have nothing to give her.
+              Come, and by your loving presence lessen her pain.
+              God bless you! Your devoted mother,
+                                                    MARIA CLEMM.
+
+          (Helen stands trembling and holding the letter) ...
+          And I hurt him ... I hurt him....
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Poe's cottage, Fordham. A room almost bare. Virginia
+sleeping on bed. Poe's cloak over her. Mrs. Clemm kneeling in
+prayer beside her. Poe enters, carrying a bundle of broken sticks
+which he lays down softly, one by one, on the hearth, looking
+anxiously toward the bed. Mrs. Clemm rises and comes to the fire)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My child, you have been out in the snow without your
+          cloak! (Brushes snow from his shoulders)
+
+ Poe.     Could I take the least warmth from yon shivering angel?
+
+ Mrs. C.  You forget that you, too, are ill. O, my boy, be careful,
+          or I shall soon be childless in the world. One is already
+          lost....
+
+ Poe.     Not lost. See how she sleeps! She is better. I know she is
+          better.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Since you came. We will hope so, dear.
+
+ Poe.     If she would only speak to us! O, why does she not speak?
+          Not once to-day.
+
+ Mrs. C.  She is very weak, my son.
+
+ Poe.     I could bear it so long as she could tell us there was no
+          pain ... but now she only looks at us.... Oh--
+
+ Mrs. C.  You will control yourself for her sake.
+
+ Poe.     Yes, yes, for her sake.
+
+ Mrs. C.  It will take her last breath to see you disturbed.
+
+ Poe.     I know! I know! Have no fear, mother. I am strong now.
+
+ Vir.     Edgar! (He flies to the bed)
+
+ Poe.     My darling!
+
+ Vir.     I am better, dear. Mamma! (Mrs. Clemm goes to her) I feel
+          so rested, mamma.
+
+ Poe.     I told you! She is better! And you will sit up a little
+          now, dear? I will carry you to the fire.
+
+ Mrs. C.  My boy!
+
+ Poe.     O, mother, don't you see how well she is? Look at her
+          cheeks--her eyes--how beautiful!
+
+ Vir.     (Smiling) Hear him, mamma! How proud he is! He must always
+          have it that his wife is beautiful.
+
+ Poe.     But it is so true, my dearest!
+
+ Vir.     Let me believe it, for it is sweet to think that I have
+          been that, at least, to you.
+
+ Poe.     O, my darling, you have been everything!
+
+ Vir.     You think so now, dear, and I love to hear you say it.
+
+ Poe.     And you will get well for me?
+
+ Vir.     No, O no! That would bring all your troubles back. You
+          will live a great life, Edgar, when you have left this
+          little care-bundle of a wife behind you.
+
+ Poe.     O, don't, Virginia! I shall do nothing without you!
+
+ Vir.     You will do everything. I am the wise one now, Edgar. And,
+          dear, while I can talk ... I must ask you ... must beg you
+          ... I must hear you say that you forgive me.
+
+ Poe.     Forgive you!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear. I was so young ... I thought I could help you
+          ... and so I let you marry me. I did not know. I thought
+          because I loved you so much that I could make you happy.
+          But women who can only love are not the women who help.
+          They must be wise and strong too, and oh, so many other
+          wonderful things. If they are not, then all the love only
+          hurts and makes things go wrong.
+
+ Poe.     O, little angel!
+
+ Vir.     Yes ... little angel ... when I ought to have been a
+          brave, great angel who could bear heaven on her wings.
+          Long ago I knew it, Edgar. When the truth came I looked
+          every way and there was no help. Then when I found I was
+          to die, it seemed that God had pitied and helped me. For
+          that was the only way.... O, these little women who can do
+          nothing but love! I wish I could take them all with me.
+          These tears are for them, not for myself, darling. O, I am
+          happy, but they must wait ... they can not die. How you
+          shiver! You must take your cloak. I am warm now. Indeed, I
+          am quite comfortable.... Don't--don't weep. You must be
+          happy because I am. Let us smile the rest of the time,
+          darling,--it--is such a little while.
+
+ Poe.     (Brokenly) Yes ... yes.... O little flower, little flower,
+          dropping back to God's bosom, how have I dared to touch
+          thee!
+
+ Vir.     (Rubbing her hand on his arm) 'Tis damp! You have been
+          out? O, my dear, you must, must take your cloak! I am
+          quite, quite warm! See, feel my hands! (Smiling)
+
+ Poe.     (Taking her hands) Little icicles!
+
+ Vir.     You have been out! O, save yourself for the great things
+          ... now I am going out of your way. Don't let my death be
+          as vain as my life. Let that count for something, Edgar.
+          O, promise me you will live for your genius' sake, you
+          will be true to your heavenly gift! Kneel by me and
+          promise!
+
+ Poe.     I ... promise.
+
+ Vir.     Dear husband ... I.... (faints)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, she is gone!
+
+ Poe.     No! She faints! My beautiful idol! O, some wine! Heaven
+          and earth for some wine!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She looks at us! My daughter!
+
+ Poe.     O, do not try to speak! Let your beautiful eyes do all the
+          talking!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She looks toward the fire. She would have you go, Edgar,
+          and try to keep warm. Come, dear. (Poe kisses Virginia
+          gently, and goes to fireside, looking back adoringly) Do
+          not look at her, and she will sleep again.
+
+ Poe.     Ah, God! It will take more than sleep to help her. And I
+          can give her nothing--nothing!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Don't, Edgar! Remember your terrible illness--how you
+          worked for her when fever was burning your brain--until
+          your pen fell from your hand.
+
+ Poe.     I brought her to this land of ice and snow!
+
+ Mrs. C.  No. Destiny brought her. We lost our home. Your work was
+          here--and she would not stay behind you.
+
+ Poe.     A _man_ would have saved her!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my boy, do not take this burden on your soul! For
+          once spare yourself!
+
+ Poe.     I can not even give her food!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Restraining him) My son, she sleeps.
+
+ Poe.     Yes ... sleep ... let me not rob her of that too! Be quiet
+          ... just be quiet ... while she dies. (Seats himself with
+          strange calmness) Come, mother, let us be cheerful. Take
+          this chair. Let us be rational. Let us think. Death is
+          strange only because we do not think enough. God must
+          breathe. Life is the exhalation, death the inhalation of
+          deity. He breathes out, and the Universe flames forth with
+          all her wings--her suns and clusters of suns--down to her
+          mote-like earth, the butterfly of space, trimmed with its
+          gaudy seasons, and nourishing on its back the parasitical
+          ephemeran, Man!
+
+ Mrs. C.  My love--
+
+ Poe.     Be calm, mother. Be calm. Then the great inbreathing
+          begins. The creative warmth no longer goes out. The
+          parasites vanish first, then the worlds on which they
+          ride, and last the mighty suns,--all sink into the still,
+          potential unity, and await the recurrent breath which may
+          bear another universe, unlike our own, where the animate
+          may control the inanimate, the organic triumph over the
+          inorganic,--(rising) ay, man himself may dominate nature,
+          control the relentless ecliptic, and say to the ages of
+          ice and fire 'Ye shall not tread on me!'
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     I beg your pardon. We must be calm. (Resumes his seat) But
+          God will not stop breathing (with bitter sarcasm) though
+          your daughter--and my wife--is dying. (Mrs. Clemm weeps.
+          He turns to the window) Do you know that elephants once
+          nibbled boughs out there where the snow is falling? They
+          ran a mighty race--and died--but no tears were shed. In
+          the records of the cosmos, if man is written down at all,
+          I think he will be designated as the 'weeping animal.'
+
+ Mrs. C.  Are you human?
+
+ Poe.     I regret that I belong to that feeble and limited variety
+          of creation, but with the next self-diffusion of the
+          concentrated Infinite I may be the Sun himself!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my mother-heart!
+
+ Poe.     Think a little more and you will forget it. The heart
+          makes the being there on the bed your daughter--my
+          wife--but the mind makes her a part of the divine force
+          which has chosen her shape for its visible flower. The
+          heart is wrung by the falling of the bloom, for it is
+          endeared to that only, but the mind rejoices in its
+          reunited divinity. Come.... (Moves a step toward the bed)
+          I can look on her now ... and be quiet. Sweet rose, I can
+          watch your petals fall. But they fall early ... they fall
+          early ... blasted in the May. Not by the divine breath
+          drawing you home, but by my mortal, shattering hand! I
+          promised you sun and dew.... I have given you frost and
+          shadows. O God! O God! let me _not_ think! Keep me a
+          little, weeping child!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Dear son, cast out this bitterness. Only your love and
+          devotion have kept her alive so long.
+
+ Poe.     No! I touched her like a wing of doom, and she fell
+          blasted! (She tries to soothe him) No, no! Call devils
+          from hell to curse me!
+
+          (A knock at the door. Mrs. Clemm opens it and a basket is
+          delivered to her. Poe, deep in agony, does not notice. She
+          takes things from the basket)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Edgar! Wine, and soft blankets!
+
+          (He looks up, and rushes across to her)
+
+ Poe.     Wine! wine! O, spirit that bendest from pitying clouds, a
+          mortal thanks thee! Quick, mother, these drops of strength
+          will give her back to us!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She sleeps, my son, which is ease more precious than
+          these drops can give.
+
+ Poe.     (Taking bottle) Give it to me!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, Edgar, do not wake her!
+
+ Poe.     Lenore, Lenore, out of thy dream, though 't were the
+          fairest ever blown to mortal from Elysium! This will put
+          thee to such smiles that dreams--
+
+ Mrs. C.  Be quiet, for God's sake!
+
+ Poe.     Quiet! 'Tis a word for clods and stones! You'd hold me
+          from her when my hand brings life? (Rushes to cupboard and
+          gets a glass which he fills)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Just a little, Edgar. Too much would--
+
+ Poe.     She shall drink it all, by Heaven! I will save her!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm sinks to a chair, helpless and sobbing. A
+          knock at the door which neither hears. Enter Helen. As Poe
+          turns to approach the bed he faces her, stares, and lets
+          the glass drop shivering)
+
+ Poe.     You!
+
+ Hel.     I, Edgar. You see I can remember my friends--and I've come
+          to scold you for not--letting me know--
+
+ Poe.     It was you who sent--
+
+ Hel.     Some blankets soft as summer clouds for the most beautiful
+          lady in the world? And wine delicate enough for a fairy's
+          throat? I knew you would not have it else. (Turns to Mrs.
+          Clemm) You do not know me, but--
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Taking her hand) I know you are a good woman reaching a
+          hand to me in my sorrow.
+
+ Hel.     (Embracing her) No ... my arms!
+
+          (Poe goes to bed and kneels by Virginia. Speaks softly to
+          her, then rises and brings a little wine)
+
+ Poe.     Just a drop, dear,--a butterfly's portion.
+
+          (Virginia drinks)
+
+ Hel.     (To Mrs. Clemm) How is she?
+
+ Mrs. C.  She will have but one more word for us--goodbye.
+
+ Hel.     Can I--may-- O, you must let me do something for her--for
+          you! Do not make me miserable by saying there is nothing I
+          can do.
+
+ Mrs. C.  There is ... something. I have never begged--
+
+ Hel.     Do not use such a word. It is you who give--make me happy.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But I will beg this. Some linen for her last robe.
+
+ Hel.     God bless you for telling me!
+
+ Poe.     (Rising from his knees by Virginia) Helen, Virginia would
+          speak to you.
+
+ Hel.     O, save the precious breath! (Approaches bed) Ah ... how
+          lovely ... I understand....
+
+ Vir.     (Lifting her head) Helen ... help my Edgar. (Sinks back.
+          Poe lays his head on her pillow. Helen stands with her arm
+          about Mrs. Clemm. Curtain falls, and rises on same room at
+          night. Virginia's body lies on the bed. Poe watches alone.
+          A candle burns on table)
+
+ Poe.     (Standing by bed) ... So low in sleep, little girl?... I
+          took thee mid thy roses. O, broken gentleness, little
+          saint-love, move but a hand, a finger, to tell me thou art
+          still my pleading angel!... Not one breath's life. Still
+          ... quite still. O, might such rest be mine! (Turns away)
+          I'll write. (Goes to table) I promised. Yes ... I'll
+          write. Behind the glorious chancel of the mind still
+          swings the incense to the deathless gods!... (Sits and
+          writes) ... No. (Rising) No rhymes--for Poesy must mourn
+          to-night. (Goes toward bed) Too much of her is dead.
+          (Gazes at Virginia) Cold ... cold. What art thou death? Ye
+          demons of a mind distraught, keep ye apace till I have
+          fathomed this!... Ha! What scene is that? (Stares as at
+          visions) A valley laid in the foundations of darkness! The
+          unscalable cliffs jut to heaven, and on the amethystine
+          peaks sit angels weeping into the abyss where creatures
+          run to and fro without escape! Some eat, some laugh, some
+          weep, some wonder. Now they make themselves candles whose
+          little beams eclipse the warning stars ... and in the
+          pallid light they dance and think it sun! But on the revel
+          creeps a serpent, fanned and crimson, with multitudinous
+          folds lapping the dancing creatures in one heaving
+          carnage! The candles die.... The stars cannot pierce the
+          writhing darkness.... Above on the immortal headlands sit
+          the angels, looking down no more, for the dismal heap no
+          longer throbs.... I must write this! Now! While I see it!
+          That moaning flood ebbing to silence ... those rosy
+          promontories lit with angel wings ... and over all as
+          large and still as heaven, the cold, unweeping eyes of
+          God!... (Writes.... A tapping at the door. He does not
+          hear. Another tapping. He looks up) Who's there?... This
+          is my vigil. Nor devil nor angel shall share it!...
+          (Listens. Tapping. He goes to door and throws it open) ...
+          Nothing ... nothing ... but darkness. (Stands peering, and
+          whispers) Lenore!... (Closes door, bolts it, returns to
+          table and writes silently. Utter stillness, then a
+          rattling at the window. Poe leaps up) What's that? (The
+          shutter is blown open. Poe stands watching. A raven flies
+          in and perches above door) Out, you night-wing! (He looks
+          at raven silently) You won't? Why, sit there then! You're
+          but a feather! (Sits and writes. After a moment rises and
+          reads)
+
+                  Out--out are the lights--out all!
+                    And over each quivering form,
+                  The curtain, a funeral pall,
+                  Comes down with the rush of a storm--
+                  And the angels all pallid and wan,
+                    Uprising, unveiling affirm
+                  That the play is the tragedy 'Man!'
+                  And its hero the Conqueror Worm!
+
+          Ah! the thought pales from these lines like light from
+          dying cinders. Poetry is but ashes telling that a fire has
+          passed. (Sits gloomily. Suddenly remembers the raven,
+          turns and stares at it) You bird of damnation, leave me in
+          peace with my dead!... O, dreaming fool, 'tis nothing....
+          My mind's a chaos that surges up this fancy. (Tries to
+          write, stops, goes on, trembles, and looks up) ... Can I
+          know fear? I, the very nursling of dreams? Who have lived
+          in a world more tenanted with ghosts than men? I can not
+          be afraid.... (Tries to write. Drops pen. Shudders,
+          looking with furtive fear at the raven) ... I am ... I am
+          afraid.... Virginia! (Creeps toward bed) Stay with me,
+          little bride. My little rose-bride! (Fingers along
+          coverlet, looking at raven) Do not leave me. Quick, little
+          love! Give me life in a kiss! (Touches her hand, shrinks,
+          and springs up) Dead!... (Leans against foot of bed,
+          wildly facing the raven) Speak, fiend! From what dim
+          region of unbodied souls hast come? What hell ungorged
+          thee for her messenger? What sentence have the devils
+          passed upon me? To what foul residence in some blasted
+          star am I condemned? Speak! By every sigh that poisons
+          happy breath!--by every misery that in me rocks and
+          genders her swart young!--by yonder life that now in
+          golden ruin lies!--I charge thee speak! How long shall I
+          wander without rest? How long whirl in the breath of
+          unforgiving winds? Or burn in the refining forges of the
+          sun? When will the Universe gather me to her heart and
+          give me of her still, unthrobbing peace? Speak! When--O
+          when will this driven spirit be at home?
+
+          (Silence. Poe listens with intense expectation and fear.
+          The raven flies out) It spoke! (Hoarsely) It spoke! I
+          heard it! (Whispers) Nevermore! (He falls in a swoon.
+          Candle flickers in the wind and goes out. Darkness)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT V.
+
+
+Scene I: Poe's lodging, Baltimore. Small room. Cot, table, and one
+chair. Poe writing)
+
+ Poe.     (Pressing his temples) Throb--throb--but you shall finish
+          this. (Writes) You, too, rebel, old pen? On, on like a
+          lusty cripple, and we'll scratch out of this hole.
+          (Lifting pen) Why, old fellow, this will buy bread. O,
+          bread, bread, bread, for one sweet crumb of thee to feed
+          an angel here! (Touching his forehead) Gordon will not
+          fail me. His letter will come to-day. And with his help
+          I'll get on good ground once more. And _then_!... (Writes.
+          Drops pen with a groan) ... Gordon's letter _must_ come
+          to-day. O, I would live, would live, for seeds are
+          gendering in my mind that might their branches throw above
+          the clouds and shake immortal buds to this bare earth!...
+          (Looks at writing) Words! Ye are but coffins for
+          imagination! No more of you! (Crushes paper) Eternity's in
+          labor with this hour! (Leaps up) I could make Time my page
+          to carry memories from star to star! O Heaven, wouldst
+          thou vouchsafe thy visions to these eyes, then fill them
+          with cold clay? Pour to these ears thine own philosophies,
+          then send the crawling worm to pluck their treasure out?
+          (Falls to chair. Enter Mrs. Schmidt)
+
+ Mrs. S.  (Holding out letter) Here it is, sir.
+
+ Poe.     (Rousing) What, Smidgkin?
+
+ Mrs. S.  The letter's come, sir.
+
+ Poe.     Thank you. (Takes letter. Mrs. Schmidt waits expectantly)
+          If you will be so good, Smidgkin--I mean if you will be so
+          cruel as to bereave me of your presence while I break this
+          very personal seal--very personal, I assure you--
+
+ Mrs. S.  No, sir. I stay to see what's inside o' that!
+
+ Poe.     Since you desire it, madam. (Starts to open letter and
+          hesitates) I--hope you are well, my good Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Always am. Hadn't you better see what's in it?
+
+ Poe.     To be sure.... I hope you have a good fire in your room
+          this chilly weather, Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Always do. I'll break it for you, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     O, no, no! I couldn't think of troubling you. The rain
+          beats very heavily. I hope your-er-roof will not be
+          injured.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Law me, I had every leaf tinkered up them sunny days
+          last week. I believe in preparin' for a rainy day, _I_ do,
+          Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Indeed, yes,--if only we were all so wise, but, alas, my
+          dear Smidgkin, some of us build so high that the angels
+          have to come down and tinker our roofs ... and when they
+          won't, Smidgkin ... when they won't (Lays letter on the
+          table) ... I hope you have no errands to take you from
+          your cheerful fireside in weather like this, Mrs.
+          Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  My name is Schmidt, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Pardon me, madam.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Air you a goin' to open that letter or air you not?
+
+ Poe.     Why, good woman, to be sure I am. I did not know you were
+          particularly interested. Excuse me. Here goes--and God
+          mend the devil's work. (Opens letter and reads) 'I have
+          talked with Brackett--' Brackett! (Drops letter and sits
+          dumb)
+
+ Mrs. S.  He sent you the ten dollars, hey? Where is it, hey?
+          Seems to me that's white paper with mighty few marks on
+          it! Not much like a ten dollar bill! Where is it, I say?
+          Lost in the mailbags, I reckon! It will come by next post!
+          You're certain--quite certain, Smidgkin! I tell you, Mr.
+          Poe, this is once too often!
+
+ Poe.     A bare, unfurnished room like this--
+
+ Mrs. S.  Is worth just a dollar a week to me, which is exactly a
+          dollar more than you can pay!
+
+ Poe.     Mrs. Smidgkin, there is a legend in the world that pity
+          never wholly leaves the breast of woman.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Shame to your tongue, Mr. Poe, that says I haven't been
+          as kind to you as your own mother--sister! Haven't you had
+          this room nigh to a month since I've seen a cent for it?
+          Didn't I give you stale bread a whole week, an' coffee a
+          Sunday mornin'? An' you dare say I'm not a Christian,
+          merciful woman? You come out o' here, or I'll put hands on
+          you, I will!
+
+ Poe.     Mrs. Smidgkin, Mrs. Smidgkin, are you aware that the rain
+          pours outside like the tears of the Danaides on their
+          wedding night? And speaking of weddings, Smidgkin--
+
+ Mrs. S.  Schmidt! As you'll find on my good man's tombstone, an'
+          some day on my own, bless God!
+
+ Poe.     O, don't talk so, I beg you!
+
+ Mrs. S.  Why now, Mr. Poe! Law me, who'd a thought you could be
+          so softhearted--about a tombstone, too!
+
+ Poe.     As I said, my dear madam--speaking of weddings--pray take
+          this chair. 'Tis all I have to offer. Gladly will I stand
+          before you, though I am but slightly bolstered within for
+          the attitude. Speak to me, madam. Let one thought fly from
+          thy caging brow to me a beggar vile.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, Mr. Poe!
+
+ Poe.     Thanks for the burden of those syllables.
+
+ Mrs. S.  My dear Mr. Poe!
+
+ Poe.     Again? You overwhelm me? Dare I speak? You have suspected?
+          You know why I linger in this dear room--dear as the
+          barrier that staves off guttery death? This kindness is
+          sincere? I may trust it and speak?
+
+ Mrs. S.  You may, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Well then, sweet Smidgkin, will you open the broad gates
+          of genial widowhood to admit a fallen wretch to the warmth
+          of your bosom and hearthstone--particularly the latter?
+
+ Mrs. S.  (With dignity) I presume, Mr. Poe, that I am addressed
+          by an offer of marriage. I have had offers before, Mr.
+          Poe,--one an undertaker who drove a good business, but he
+          looked for all the world like one of his own corpses an'
+          what is business says I to a woman in good circumstances
+          with a longin' heart? I don't mind sayin' it, Mr. Poe, a
+          nice lookin' man always did take my eye, an' you'll be a
+          pretty figure when you're plumped out a bit, indeed you
+          will, but your addresses of this offer is somewhat
+          unusual, an' if you'll give me time--
+
+ Poe.     The weather, madam, will admit of no delay. Since you are
+          so determined, I must give up hope and seek shelter under
+          Jove's great canopy.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, don't go there, Mr. Poe--it's a bad place, that Canpy
+          house, an' I've heard Jove talked about for a vile
+          barkeep! I guess since you're so impetus I'll say yes to
+          these addresses of marriage, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Ha! ha! ha!
+
+ Mrs. S.  What do you mean, Mr. Poe? My dear Eddie, I should say!
+
+ Poe.     I mean, madam, that death loves a joke.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, my sweet Eddie, don't be talkin' about death. You're
+          so pale I don't wonder--and a'most starved out I'll
+          venture my word for it. But you won't know yourself in a
+          week. I've got the sweetest room downstairs--all in blue
+          an' white, with a bed three feet o' feathers, soft as a
+          goosebreast, I warrant, an' I'll tuck you in an' bring you
+          a toddy that'll warm you to your toes, it will, an'--
+
+ Poe.     Ha! ha! ha! Well, why not? I seize this wretched plank or
+          sink with all that in me is. Men have done it. But not
+          Edgar Poe! Sell my soul for a broth-dish--a saucepan--a
+          feather-bed--
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, he's out of his mind, sure he is! My sweet Eddie, he's
+          loved me distracted!
+
+ Poe.     Can this be woman?
+
+ Mrs. S.  Law me!
+
+ Poe.     The sex that knew a Virginia--that knows a Helen? No!
+          there are men, women ... and angels!
+
+ Mrs. S.  Look here, Mr. Poe, don't you mention no women 'round me!
+          O, Eddy, my Eddy! (Offers to caress him)
+
+ Poe.     Away! You wench from Venus' kitchen! (Going) This weather
+          ... once I could have braved it with the wildest wing that
+          ever flew. But now.... (coughs wretchedly)
+
+ Mrs. S.  No rent an' no husband either!
+
+ Poe.     Up, heart, we go! Henceforth I live by spirit-bread! Lead
+          me, ye unseen comrades, to immortal feasts! (Exit)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: An hour later. A bar-room. Door in center, rear. Four
+men at table, left, rear, playing cards.
+
+ Haines.  Was afraid you wouldn't show up to-night, Juggy.
+
+ Juggers.
+          Nothing like a stormy night for a good game. Never miss
+          one. Rain brings me luck.
+
+ Black.   Then, by Jacks, you'll have it all your way to-night. It's
+          pouring hogsheads. Your deal, Sharp. (They play in
+          silence. Poe enters, rear, walks uncertainly across the
+          room and takes a seat, right, front. There seems to be
+          life only in his eyes, their burning light revealing a
+          soul struggling free from a corpse. He sits unnoticed for
+          a short time)
+
+ Sharp.   (To barkeeper) Say, Thomas, I thought this was a
+          gentleman's house. What's that in the corner? Looks like a
+          coffin might 'a' spilt it on the way to the graveyard.
+
+ Bark.    (In lower tone) He's one o' these writin' fellers in hard
+          luck. I've let him hang around here a good deal, for he's
+          always quiet and gives me no show for kickin' him out. But
+          say the word and he goes.
+
+ Haines.  Looks more like a sick man than a bum.
+
+ Sharp.   Bah! He can drink till he wets his boots. I know that sort
+          of a face.
+
+ Bark.    Never drinks anything 'round here.
+
+ Sharp.   Good reason. You don't wear a charity medal.
+
+ Jug.     Let him stay for luck.
+
+ Sharp.   Whose luck? You're doing all the winning to-night,
+          Juggers. He's a Jonah for the rest of us. I want his eye
+          off me, I say.
+
+ Black.   O, let him alone. I'd ask a burglar to have a seat in my
+          house a night like this--'pon honor, I would. Play up.
+          (They play on)
+
+ Poe.     What a noble palace is here! How the gleaming vault
+          reaches to heaven and mocks the stars! What resplendent
+          lights! As though the master had taken burning planets for
+          his candles! How far they throw their beams--around the
+          world and into the nether sea!
+
+ Jug.     (To Haines, who is looking at Poe) Mind your play there,
+          Haines.
+
+ Poe.     I know this place. It is the poet's house of dream that
+          all my life I've sought to reach. I am dying now, and they
+          let me in, because I have been true to them. The master
+          will read it in my face. I have not eaten of the
+          flesh-pots! I have beggared my body, but I have not
+          beggared my soul!
+
+ Sharp.   Curse it, Juggers! It's yours again!
+
+ Haines.  Take your medicine, Sharp. A man must know how to lose
+          as well as win.
+
+ Poe.     Yonder is the master, arrayed all in white and gold and
+          sapphire. Those angels that attend him are poets wrapped
+          in fires of love. They talk about me now, and ask if I am
+          worthy to come in. O, I have loved ye well, immortal dead!
+          Through noons that burnt the world I've tracked your dewy
+          shadows! No day died in my eyes but ye were whispering
+          priests! And midnight stars have learned your names of me!
+
+ Sharp.   (Throwing down cards) It's that hoodoo in the corner!
+
+ Poe.     How wonderful their voices! They speak a strange language,
+          but I can interpret it.
+
+ Sharp.   I'll not play another card until he goes!
+
+ Poe.     He says that by the trembling of the planet-lights an
+          earth-soul come this way. He sees me!
+
+ Black.   Well, by Jacks, I've got a dollar for his supper and bed.
+
+ Poe.     He says that 'tis a strange creature carrying a burning
+          brand in his bosom.
+
+ Sharp.   You can afford to be a fool. You've helped Juggers rake
+          in.
+
+ Poe.     Not a brand, he says, but an immortal star.
+
+ Sharp.   Thomas, set that oil painting outside, will you?
+
+ Poe.     They ask the master if they may come to meet me.
+          (Barkeeper approaches Poe) Ah, the master comes himself,
+          for I am one of the chosen.
+
+ Barkeeper.
+          Get out o' this!
+
+ Poe.     (Rising slowly) Thou mighty one, thy servant hears thee!
+
+ Bark.    Eh?
+
+ Poe.     I'll be the humblest round thy throne.
+
+ Bark.    Look here, I was a little soft about you, but now you just
+          shove along!
+
+ Poe.     I beg your pardon,--may I ask the name of this planet?
+
+ Bark.    Eh?
+
+ Poe.     Is it--the earth?
+
+ Bark.    (Shaking him) None o' your squibs!
+
+ Poe.     (Recognizing and throwing him off with momentary strength)
+          Do not touch me, George Thomas. I will go.
+
+ Black.   (Flinging him a piece of silver, which falls to the floor)
+          There's a bed for you.
+
+ Poe.     I dare not touch it, sir, lest I be infected, for the
+          angels who look upon us know that I shall be in health
+          when fever shall sit on your bones and agues make their
+          bed in your marrow!
+
+ Jug.     A gentleman can't stand that jaw. Kick him out, Thomas, or
+          I will.
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch me! You walking clay! who button your coats
+          about three meals a day and think you have belted in the
+          universe! Go listen to the sea lapping rock and bone to
+          her oblivious mill, and know your hearts shall sleep as
+          sand within her shells! By the dead worlds that drift in
+          yonder void, and long have sung the swan-song of their
+          deities, this too shall pass, and ere it passes flesh
+          shall learn its impotence! Grey stalkers from the past
+          shall clutch the throat of days! All wrongs shall rise and
+          gather their revenge! And man--
+
+ Sharp.   Here you crazy Tom! That's just enough!
+
+          (Tries to take hold of Poe)
+
+ Poe.     Off! See what I see! The Conqueror Worm! Fold on fold the
+          red-fanged monster creeps! Look! your doom, ye swine with
+          sodden eyes fast shut against sublimities! Ye--
+
+ Jug.     (Taking Poe by the throat) I'll stop your croaking!
+
+          (Haines and Black pull Juggers from Poe, who falls to seat
+          utterly exhausted)
+
+ Haines.  Can't you keep your hands off a sick man?
+
+ Jug.     Sick! He's the devil!
+
+ Haines.  Then you might as well make his acquaintance.
+
+ Poe.     'Tis here ... death ... and all is yet to say. O, I have
+          chattered as a babe! Now, I could speak, and dust is in my
+          mouth!... Helen, you told me to be content with the
+          letters.... I have tried to read ... to steal God's book.
+          He has punished ... but death pays my bond. Soon I shall
+          read with His eyes and be at peace. Peace! (Gives a dying
+          shudder) Nevermore!... (Rises, staggers to door and opens
+          it wide) O, Night, with thy minstrel winds, blow gently on
+          me dead ... for I have been thy lover! (Looks back at the
+          men who are gazing at him intently, and speaks lowly,
+          erect and godlike) In His own image created He man!...
+          (Turns and steps into the darkness.)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
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+
+Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Semiramis and Other Plays
+       Semiramis, Carlotta And The Poet
+
+Author: Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+Release Date: October 29, 2007 [EBook #23234]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Daniel Griffith and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Kentuckiana Digital Library)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<div class="titlepage">
+<h1><a class="page" name="page1" id="page1" title="1"></a>SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS</h1>
+
+<p>BY<br />
+OLIVE TILFORD DARGAN</p>
+
+<p><img src="images/mask.png" alt="Image of a dramatic mask" width="114" height="131" /></p>
+
+<p>BRENTANO&#8217;S<br />
+<em class="sc">New York</em><br />
+1904</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page2" id="page2" title="2"></a>Copyright 1904<br />
+By Olive Tilford Dargan<br />
+[Stage rights reserved]</p>
+
+<p>THE LITERARY COLLECTOR PRESS<br />
+GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT</p>
+</div>
+
+<h2><a class="page" name="page3" id="page3" title="3"></a>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<table summary="">
+<tr><td>SEMIRAMIS</td><td class="right"><a href="#page5">5</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td>CARLOTTA</td><td class="right"><a href="#page75">75</a></td></tr>
+<tr><td>THE POET</td><td class="right"><a href="#page175">175</a></td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page4" id="page4" title="4"></a><!--
+ERRATA (already corrected in text)
+
+Page  33, line  2, for  No more!    read  No more?
+Page  95, line 30, for  unpalling   read  unpaling
+Page 123, line 32, for  sacrifices  read  sacrifice
+Page 190, line  6, for  bloom       read  blown
+Page 196, line 22, for  mummy       read  mammy
+--></p>
+
+<div class="plays">
+<h2><a class="page" name="page5" id="page5" title="5"></a>SEMIRAMIS</h2>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page6" id="page6" title="6"></a></p>
+
+<table summary="">
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a class="page" name="page7" id="page7" title="7"></a><a href="#play1act1">ACT I.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play1act1scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>The tent of Menones</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play1act2">ACT II.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play1act2scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Hall in the palace of Ninus</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play1act3">ACT III.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play1act3scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>The gardens over the lake</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play1act4">ACT IV.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play1act4scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>The tent of Husak</td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page8" id="page8" title="8"></a>CHARACTERS</h3>
+
+<p><span><em class="sc">Ninus</em>, king of Assyria</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Husak</em>, king of Armenia</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Khosrove</em>, son of Husak</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Menones</em>, governor of Nineveh</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Artavan</em>, son of Menones</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Sumbat</em>, friend of Artavan</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Vassin</em>, officer of the king</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Haddo</em>, a guard</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Armin</em>, a guard</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Dokahra</em>, woman to Semiramis</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Sola</em>, wife of Artavan</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Semiramis</em>, daughter of Menones</span><br />
+<span>Officers, heralds, messengers, guards, soldiers, dancers, &amp;c.</span></p>
+
+<p class="play"><a class="page" name="page9" id="page9" title="9"></a>SEMIRAMIS</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play1act1" id="play1act1"></a>ACT I.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play1act1scene1" id="play1act1scene1"></a>Scene: Within the tent of Menones, on the plain
+before Nineveh. Left, centre, entrance to tent from the
+plain. Curtains rear, forming partition with exits right
+and left of centre. The same at right, with one exit,
+centre. Couch rear, between exits. From a tent-pole
+near exit, right centre, hang helmet and a suit of chain
+armor.</p>
+
+<p class="italic">Sola parts curtains rear, left, and looks out, showing
+effort to keep awake. She steps forward.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Hist! Armin! Haddo!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter two guards, left centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Still no news?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Arm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;None, lady.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Oh, Artavan, what keeps thee?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Haddo.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He will come.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Semiramis is sleeping. I am weary,</span><br />
+<span>But <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not sleep.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page10" id="page10" title="10"></a><strong class="i8">Arm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rest, madam; we will call you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> My lord shall find me watching, night or day!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Arm.</strong> Two nights you have not slept.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ten thousand nights,</span><br />
+<span>I think, good Armin.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Had.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will call you, madam.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Arm.</strong> With the first hoof-beat ringing from the north!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> (<i>At curtains, drowsily</i>)</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be&mdash;awake.</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i8">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Goes in</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Had.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>She &#8217;ll</abbr> sleep now.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Arm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, she must.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Had.</strong> And <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> not call her for god Bel himself!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Arm.</strong> Hark! (<i>Goes to entrance</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i6">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8217;Tis a horseman!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Had.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Following him</i>) Two!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Arm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Right! We must rouse</span><br />
+<span>The lady Semiramis.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Had.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Make sure &#8217;tis he. (<i>They step out</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice without.</strong> Is this Menones&#8217; tent?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Arm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Without</i>) Ay, Sir! The word!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice.</strong> God Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis enters, through curtains right centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Artavan! His voice!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Artavan, followed by Sumbat who waits
+near entrance</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> Semiramis! (<i>Embracing her</i>) Three years this kiss</span><br />
+<span>Has gathered love for thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>Has &#8217;t</abbr> been so long</span><br />
+<span>Since I left Gazim?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay,&mdash;since Ninus called</span><br />
+<span>Our father here, and Gazim lost her dove.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>On his bosom, laughing softly</i>) The dove of Gazim,&mdash;so they called me then.</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page11" id="page11" title="11"></a>But now&mdash;(<i>proudly, moving from him</i>) the lioness of Nineveh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> A warrior&#8217;s daughter!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And a warrior&#8217;s sister!</span><br />
+<span>O, I have prayed that you might come! The king</span><br />
+<span>Is gracious&mdash;loves the brave&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our father?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> well?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>Is &#8217;t</abbr> day?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Almost.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At dawn he meets</span><br />
+<span>The Armenians on the plain.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then he is well!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> He went forth well,&mdash;and brave as when he drove</span><br />
+<span>The Ghees from Gazim with his single sword!</span><br />
+<span>But&mdash;oh&mdash;he needs you, Artavan, he needs you!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Comes closer speaking rapidly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> with him night and day but when he battles&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>I buckle on his arms&mdash;cheer him away&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And wipe the foe&#8217;s blood from his mighty sword</span><br />
+<span>When he returns! But <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> a fear so strange!</span><br />
+<span>At times <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> moved quite from himself,&mdash;so far</span><br />
+<span>That I look on him and see not our father!</span><br />
+<span>If I dared speak <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> almost say that he</span><br />
+<span>Who never lost a battle shrinks from war!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> (<i>Starting</i>) No, no! Not that! You borrow eyes of fear</span><br />
+<span>And see what is not!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> felt the drops</span><br />
+<span>Cold on his brow, and raised his lifeless arms</span><br />
+<span>Whose corded strength hung slack as a sick child&#8217;s!</span><br />
+<span>O, it is true! And you must stand by him!</span><br />
+<span>Fight at his side! I thought to do it! I!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page12" id="page12" title="12"></a>See here, my armor!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Moving with him to where the armor hangs</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i10">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When I had this made</span><br />
+<span>And swore to wear it in the fight, <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> then</span><br />
+<span>He yielded&mdash;said that you might come&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sound of trumpets at distance. They listen</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i20">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The charge!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> I go to him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Taking a paper from her bosom</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i9">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Take this! <abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> understand!</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis some direction later thought upon!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> My wife is safe&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With me! Three days ago</span><br />
+<span>She came. And now she sleeps&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Points to curtains, rear left</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In there? One kiss&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Nay, nay, you go to battle, and should keep</span><br />
+<span>Steel in your eye, not woman&#8217;s tears!... Who comes</span><br />
+<span>With you?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks toward entrance where Sumbat stands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, Sumbat!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>He advances and drops on knee. She gives him
+both hands and he rises</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i11">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome! But no time</span><br />
+<span>For gallant greetings! We are warriors here!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A roll of battle is heard</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> We go!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ride! ride! The battle over, ye</span><br />
+<span>Shall meet the king!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Artavan and Sumbat hasten out. The noise of departure
+brings Sola to curtains</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What is it? Who was here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Absorbed</i>) <abbr>They &#8217;ll</abbr> reach my father!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Not Artavan?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay&mdash;he.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page13" id="page13" title="13"></a><strong class="i11">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And gone&mdash;my husband!</span><br />
+<span>Without a word&mdash;a look!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The battle calls,</span><br />
+<span>And he who wears ambition&#8217;s spur must ride!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Ambition! O, you think of naught but war</span><br />
+<span>And glory! Hast thou no heart, Semiramis?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I&#8217; faith, and love thee with it! (<i>kisses her</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trifle not!</span><br />
+<span>Hadst thou a heart thou couldst not live a maid,</span><br />
+<span>So beautiful, and never dream of love!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> some strange thing&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What, wilt be angry? Come!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> tell thee all he said&mdash;thy Artavan,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Ay, every word, and how his eyes grew soft</span><br />
+<span>With dimness sweeter than their vanquished light</span><br />
+<span>When thou wert his dear theme!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>They move to curtains. Semiramis stops and listens</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go in. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> come. (<i>Sola goes in</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Listening</i>) Is that a chariot? My father!... Nay!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> safe with Artavan! Whatever comes</span><br />
+<span>His son will be his heart and bear him up!</span><br />
+<span>Safe, safe, Menones, and thy grizzled locks</span><br />
+<span>Shall wear their laurels to an honored grave!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Noise of approaching chariot</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>It <em>is</em> a chariot! Can it be the king?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Chariot stops without</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Armin, who is it comes?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Arm.</strong> (<i>Appearing at entrance</i>) The Lord Menones.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis sways, steadies herself, and waits.
+Menones enters, livid and trembling. In form he is large
+and mighty, but is grey with age. He staggers over to
+couch and sits upon it, groaning heavily. Semiramis
+looks at him in silence. Then approaches and speaks in
+a low terrified tone</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page14" id="page14" title="14"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> You fled the battle!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You must go back!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> Too late!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Gaining courage and putting her hands
+sternly on his shoulders</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i8">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We must fly!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fly! Never!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Rising</i>) Come!</span><br />
+<span>The chariot! The king will leave my race</span><br />
+<span>No blood on earth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If it be coward&#8217;s blood</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis better lost!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Come, come! We yet can fly!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Back to the battle! There <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go with thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> I can not! Oh, the <abbr>terror &#8217;s</abbr> here&mdash;here&mdash;here!</span><br />
+<span>It clutches at my heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tear out thy heart</span><br />
+<span>And keep thy honor whole!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>He falls on the couch, shaken with suffering. She
+kneels by him pleading passionately</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Up, father, up!</span><br />
+<span>You must go back! You know not what <abbr>you &#8217;ve</abbr> done!</span><br />
+<span>Our Artavan&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Praise Bel, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> safe in Gazim!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> No ... he is here ... he came, and rode to find you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> He came? Gods, no!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, true! <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> in the battle!</span><br />
+<span>Now you will go! You will go back, my father!</span><br />
+<span>He does not know the plan! He can not lead</span><br />
+<span>Without your counsel! Come&mdash;your voice&mdash;his arm&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And all is safe!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>He rises; noise of battle; he sinks shuddering</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No&mdash;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> die here&mdash;not there!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page15" id="page15" title="15"></a>(<i>Semiramis stands in despair; then lifts her arms
+praying</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O mighty Belus, give me back my father!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>She listens with sudden eagerness and goes to tent
+door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>False! false! They&#8217;re verging south! North, north, ye cowards!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Rushes to her armor and takes it down. Shakes the
+curtains right, and calls</i>)</p>
+
+<p>Dokahra! (<i>Throws off her robe and begins putting
+on armor. Enter Dokahra, right centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dok.</strong> Mistress!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Buckle here! Be quick!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> You shall not go!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You have no might or right</span><br />
+<span>To stay me now!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You will be lost!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lost? No!</span><br />
+<span>Did I not plan this battle? Haste, Dokahra!</span><br />
+<span>Our lives are in your fingers! Courage, father!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Going, Dokahra still adjusting armor</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>The king has smiled on me&mdash;I do not know&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>But there was such a promise in his smile&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And if the <abbr>victory &#8217;s</abbr> mine he will forgive!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dok.</strong> This rivet, mistress!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Noise of battle</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Artavan, I come!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Rushes out. Sound of chariot rolling away.
+Dokahra looks stolidly at Menones for a moment, then
+turns through curtains, right. Menones presses his heart
+in pain, moans wretchedly, and draws a blanket over his
+body</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> Is this the form that bright Decreto loved?</span><br />
+<span>But where the soul, O, gods! (<i>Lies shuddering</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Voice without.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The King!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page16" id="page16" title="16"></a>(<i>Menones draws blanket over his face and becomes
+motionless. Enter the king, with Vassin</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>At entrance</i>) Stand here!</span><br />
+<span>Godagon, haste! Ride to Menones; say</span><br />
+<span>We wait within his tent; his messengers</span><br />
+<span>Will reach us here.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A rider spurs off without. Ninus and Vassin advance
+within the tent</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty, suppose</span><br />
+<span>The Armenians gain, <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> be in danger here.</span><br />
+<span>Why come so near for news?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For news, good Vassin?</span><br />
+<span>I had a better reason. Semiramis</span><br />
+<span>Tents with her father.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Points to curtains</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The sun will break</span><br />
+<span>Through there!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She stirs! She comes! Wait&mdash;see!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Dokahra&#8217;s gaunt figure appears at curtains</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> A false dawn, is it not?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your mistress sleeps?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dok.</strong> (<i>Abasing herself</i>)</span><br />
+<span>No, mighty king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> up? Then give her word</span><br />
+<span>We&#8217;re here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Dok.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> not within, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Abroad!</span><br />
+<span>So soon? <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> on the general&#8217;s business?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dok.</strong> And yours, O king! <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> joined the battle!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i22">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> Ha! ha! Do you believe this?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay ... &#8217;tis so.</span><br />
+<span>I know her spirit. <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> mettle for a queen!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page17" id="page17" title="17"></a>(<i>Menones uncovers and half rises</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> You would not make her one, your majesty!</span><br />
+<span>Though she should lead your troops to victory,</span><br />
+<span>Still is she but your general&#8217;s daughter, and</span><br />
+<span>Assyria&#8217;s crown is given of gods to gods!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> And Ninus knows to keep his race untainted.</span><br />
+<span>But all the jewels of a king, my Vassin,</span><br />
+<span>Are not worn in his crown. Some in the heart</span><br />
+<span>Are casketed, and there this maid shall shine</span><br />
+<span>For me alone. Were she of heavenly race&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> (<i>Starting up</i>)</span><br />
+<span>She is, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus regards him in astonishment</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What do you here, Menones?</span><br />
+<span>Speak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> (<i>Trembling</i>) I am ill.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ill, sir? Ha! Now I know!</span><br />
+<span>Your daughter leads while you couch safe in tent!</span><br />
+<span>She sought to hide your shame! O, what a heart!</span><br />
+<span>But you&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I led, my lord, till illness seized&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Too ill to fight, but not too ill to fly!</span><br />
+<span>Hound! hound! My troops are lost! <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> kill you now</span><br />
+<span>But &#8217;tis an hour too soon! First you must be</span><br />
+<span>Of every honor stript!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Kneeling</i>) My lord and king,</span><br />
+<span>I know that I must die, but hear a prayer</span><br />
+<span>For my brave daughter&#8217;s sake! Betray her not,</span><br />
+<span>Lest thou offend the gods that gave thee life,</span><br />
+<span>For she, too, is of heaven!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ha!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Men.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I swear</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis true! My lord, Decreto was her mother!</span><br />
+<span>She met me on the plains of Gazim when</span><br />
+<span>This aged figure was called fair, and youth</span><br />
+<span>Still fed its fire to manhood&#8217;s prime;</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page18" id="page18" title="18"></a>Our babe she left upon a mountain crest</span><br />
+<span>And sent her doves to tend it through a year,</span><br />
+<span>Then bade me scale the mount and take my own.</span><br />
+<span>I did, and named her for Decreto&#8217;s dove&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What precious tale is this?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> He thinks to fright you from the maid, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dok.</strong> (<i>Falling at the king&#8217;s feet</i>)</span><br />
+<span>O king, &#8217;tis true! Ask thou in Gazim&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Dokahra vanishes through curtains left rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> take a better lie to save your head!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> My head? <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> welcome to it! &#8217;Tis not that!</span><br />
+<span>But she&mdash;my daughter&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will spare her life.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> (<i>Calmly</i>) It is my prayer that she may die with me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Not while we love. If e&#8217;er she lose her charm,</span><br />
+<span>We may remember that you were her father.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> (<i>Furiously, forgetting himself</i>)</span><br />
+<span>She has a brother yet!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A brother! So!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> look to him as well! Thanks for your news!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Men.</strong> (<i>Towering up</i>) Though every god in heaven gave thee blood</span><br />
+<span>Yet would I spill it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Lifts his sword; suddenly drops it and falls, pressing
+his heart. Ninus and Vassin watch him silently until
+he is still</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dead?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Stooping</i>) Ay, dead, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> I would have spared him though I threatened death.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page19" id="page19" title="19"></a><strong>Vas.</strong> Have spared the coward? Why, your majesty?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Semiramis has spirit passing woman&#8217;s;</span><br />
+<span>I have no hope to force her to my arms,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> have wrought her heart to tenderness</span><br />
+<span>By mercy to her father. Love is my aim!</span><br />
+<span>All else I can command&mdash;but that&mdash;Guards here!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Armin and Haddo</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Not you&mdash;my own! But wait&mdash;a word! Where sleeps</span><br />
+<span>Menones?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Arm.</strong> (<i>Pointing</i>) There, O king!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The body of Menones lies behind the king and
+Vassin, unseen by the <ins title="Original reads 'gaurds'">guards</ins>. Exeunt Armin and Haddo.
+Enter the king&#8217;s guards</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Take up this body.</span><br />
+<span>Place it within.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards go in with Menones&#8217; body</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What would you do, my lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> know in time.</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i4">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Re-enter guards</i>) Hark! You saw nothing!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Guards.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Bowing to floor</i>) Nothing.</span><br />
+<span>O mighty Ninus! (<i>Exeunt</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I will have her love!</span><br />
+<span>Vassin, this story of her goddess birth</span><br />
+<span>Is true!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How knows your majesty?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It speaks</span><br />
+<span>In all her motions. Every glance and grace</span><br />
+<span>Revouches it. E&#8217;en your dull eye must know</span><br />
+<span>Her beauty is immortal, though her life</span><br />
+<span>Is forfeit to the clay and must have end.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> <abbr>Thou &#8217;lt</abbr> find another fair! Youth blooms and goes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Not such as hers! Her <abbr>brow &#8217;s</abbr> a holy page</span><br />
+<span>Where chiselling Time dare never set a mark!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page20" id="page20" title="20"></a>The sun hath been her lover, and so deep</span><br />
+<span>Hath touched her locks with fire no winter hand</span><br />
+<span>May shake his kisses out!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Why, <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> in love!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Confused voices without. A messenger runs in and
+falls at the feet of the king</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Speak, sir!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Mes.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Assyria wins! The Armenians fly!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>They &#8217;ve</abbr> lost their leader&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Khosrove! Is he taken?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mes.</strong> Taken or slain, I know not which, but know</span><br />
+<span>He leads no more the enemy! They fly</span><br />
+<span>Before Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mes.</strong> Ay, all was rout until she reached the field</span><br />
+<span>And spurred the&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice of herald without.</strong> Victory! A victory!</span><br />
+<span>Ninus is god and king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Cries.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A victory!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter herald</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Herald.</strong> Assyria triumphs o&#8217;er his enemies!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Is Khosrove taken?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Her.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Slain, the people cry!</span><br />
+<span>The soldiers hail Semiramis their chief,</span><br />
+<span>Call her a goddess, drag her chariot,</span><br />
+<span>And shout and swear by Belus&#8217; ruling star</span><br />
+<span>To be her slaves forever!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So they shall.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> Your majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peace, Vassin! Wait and see!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Noise and cries without as Semiramis is drawn
+toward the tent in her chariot</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Ho! Guards!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The king&#8217;s guards enter. Ninus passes to right
+centre, facing entrance opposite. Guards station themselves
+<a class="page" name="page21" id="page21" title="21"></a>on each side of him and in his rear. Semiramis enters,
+followed by officers and soldiers. Her helmet is off,
+her hair falling</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hail goddess!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis looks at the king in astonishment then
+glances fearfully toward Menones&#8217; room</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hail, Assyria&#8217;s queen!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Faintly</i>) O king&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus advances to her. She kneels before him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Kneel down, Menones&#8217; daughter! Rise,</span><br />
+<span>The bride of Ninus, nevermore to kneel!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i20">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Raises her</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span>This victory is proof, if proof I need,</span><br />
+<span>That you are a true daughter of the skies,</span><br />
+<span>Mate for the mightiest throne!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i9">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To soldiers</i>) Cry festival!</span><br />
+<span>The feast of triumph and the wedding revel</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> hold together! Go!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt soldiers, cheering without</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Taking the hand of Semiramis</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To-day <abbr>thou &#8217;lt</abbr> come?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Withdrawing her hand and bowing her head</i>)</span><br />
+<span>I am my king&#8217;s.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Passing to exit</i>) The royal chariot,</span><br />
+<span>Within the hour, will take you from the tent</span><br />
+<span>Unto our palace.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt Ninus and attendants. Semiramis stands
+dazed. Sola comes out softly and looks at her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>In rapture</i>) Ah, my <abbr>father &#8217;s</abbr> safe!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> tell him!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Hurries toward curtains right, rear, and stops at exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i8">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No ... <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> wait. This joy is dead</span><br />
+<span>If Artavan be lost!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sola springs toward her with a cry</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Be lost? Ah, no!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page22" id="page22" title="22"></a>Where is he? Oh, not lost!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He pushed too far</span><br />
+<span>Amid the flying troops.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And you&mdash;you stole</span><br />
+<span>His last look from my eyes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He may be saved.</span><br />
+<span>For Sumbat followed him. He must be saved!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> hope till Sumbat comes.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, you know naught</span><br />
+<span>Of love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I was his sister, Sola, ere</span><br />
+<span>He made thee wife.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A sister! O, such love</span><br />
+<span>Is nothing! Thou wilt smile at it</span><br />
+<span>If ever <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> a wife!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis is removing her armor. She stops and
+looks questioningly at Sola; then shakes her head</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, Sola, nay!...</span><br />
+<span>Help me with this.... Somehow my heart is gone</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>armor &#8217;s</abbr> for the brave.</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i3">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Putting on her robe</i>) Now <abbr>&#8217;t has</abbr> come back.</span><br />
+<span>But beats and whispers like a maiden&#8217;s own.</span><br />
+<span>I am but half a warrior.... Do not sob.</span><br />
+<span>Sumbat will bring us news.... Ah, he has come!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Sumbat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> (<i>Rushing to him and looking into his face</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Oh, lost! (<i>Flies, sobbing, through the curtains, rear left</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speak.... Is it true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I fear it is.</span><br />
+<span>I could not save him, and they bore him off.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Alive?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alive!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A prisoner! Not slain!</span><br />
+<span>Then we may hope! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> captured Husak&#8217;s son!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page23" id="page23" title="23"></a><strong>Sum.</strong> Khosrove! Is he not under guard without?</span><br />
+<span>A man most fair ... of lordly form, and young?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> &#8217;Tis he! Have him brought hither instantly!</span><br />
+<span>To Husak word shall go on swiftest steed</span><br />
+<span>That I will yield the prince for Artavan!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Sumbat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> safe ... if there be time ... if there be time!...</span><br />
+<span>Husak, the Fierce ... but he must love his son,</span><br />
+<span>And will be merciful to save him. Ay....</span><br />
+<span>So brave a son. Now I recall his face,</span><br />
+<span>It would have made me pause had not my eyes</span><br />
+<span>Been dim with triumph.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Sumbat, followed by officers with Khosrove.
+The officers fall back, leaving the captive before Semiramis.
+He is stripped of all armor, and clothed in a
+scant tunic revealing a figure of marked strength and
+grace. He stands erect, but with head bowed, and
+his arms bound to his sides</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Gazes at him</i>) Ah!... (<i>She advances a step</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Armenian!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>At sound of her voice he lifts his head and looks at
+her with eager recognition</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Stepping back</i>) Armenian!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Proudly</i>) Armenia, by your leave!</span><br />
+<span>I am my father&#8217;s house.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> glad &#8217;tis so.</span><br />
+<span>Then he should value thee.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He does.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So much</span><br />
+<span>That he will spare the life of Artavan</span><br />
+<span>If we spare yours?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who is this Artavan</span><br />
+<span>Who evens me in price?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Menones&#8217; son.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page24" id="page24" title="24"></a><strong>Khos.</strong> Menones? Governor of Nineveh?</span><br />
+<span>Who fled my sword, fear-cold, and pale with terror?</span><br />
+<span>Insult not Husak with so poor a suit!</span><br />
+<span>That coward&#8217;s race&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Am I a coward, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>In sudden dejection</i>)</span><br />
+<span>These fettered arms make answer, princess.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay,</span><br />
+<span>I am Menones&#8217; daughter,&mdash;Artavan</span><br />
+<span>My brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not the Assyrian princess? O,</span><br />
+<span>Forgive me, lady! I am proud to be</span><br />
+<span>Thy brother&#8217;s price!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What surety have I</span><br />
+<span>That Artavan still lives?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My word.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Officer.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His word!</span><br />
+<span>O, noble madam, it is known to all</span><br />
+<span>That Husak takes no prisoners of war.</span><br />
+<span>They die before his tent.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Such is the custom&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O me, my brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But I can avouch</span><br />
+<span>That Artavan still lives.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trust not the word</span><br />
+<span>Of captive foes, my lady. By what means</span><br />
+<span>Can he know this?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speak, sir.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To you alone</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> speak.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay&mdash;before all!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unto no ear</span><br />
+<span>But thine.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wouldst save thy life?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Perhaps. Wouldst save</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page25" id="page25" title="25"></a>Thy brother?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sumbat, wilt advise me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trust him,</span><br />
+<span>And hear what he would say.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Out then, my friends,</span><br />
+<span>I pray you.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All go out but Semiramis and Khosrove.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i6">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My father swore to me</span><br />
+<span>Before I led his troops &#8217;gainst Nineveh,</span><br />
+<span>All captives should be held at my disposal</span><br />
+<span>And bloody custom waived. I would not speak</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Fore all, lest I should rob fierce Husak&#8217;s name</span><br />
+<span>Of terror which is half his sword.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But now</span><br />
+<span>He thinks you dead.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not so. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> sent him word</span><br />
+<span>By a sure mouth that <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> unhurt and held</span><br />
+<span>A prisoner.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O then my <abbr>brother &#8217;s</abbr> safe!</span><br />
+<span>How gracious art thou, Heaven!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i3">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Steps towards entrance</i>) Sumbat!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Stepping before her</i>) Wait!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> What more?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All&mdash;everything&mdash;<abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> nothing said!</span><br />
+<span>Ninus will spare me not! &#8217;Tis thou must save me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I! No! The king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not he! Is Artavan</span><br />
+<span>Grown dearer than his hate to Husak? Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Sir, fear not Ninus. He will grant my suit.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> He will? You&mdash;you&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> saved his army!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Relieved</i>) Ah!</span><br />
+<span>No more than that?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enough!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page26" id="page26" title="26"></a><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No! <abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> not wipe</span><br />
+<span>Revenge from out his heart,&mdash;and you have saved</span><br />
+<span>But that your father threw away.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peace, sir!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> but one way for me&mdash;escape!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No more!</span><br />
+<span>Nay&mdash;not another word!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I must escape&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not one!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> That word unsaid slays Artavan,</span><br />
+<span>Spoken it saves him! Once in Ninus&#8217; power</span><br />
+<span>I have no hope of life, and with me dies</span><br />
+<span>Your brother.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Scornfully</i>) Do not fear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I fear? By Heaven!</span><br />
+<span>Think you this heart is not a soldier&#8217;s own</span><br />
+<span>Because &#8217;tis captive to a woman&#8217;s sword?</span><br />
+<span>A woman&#8217;s sword! O little had thy sword</span><br />
+<span>To do with my defeat! Unarmed thou wouldst</span><br />
+<span>Have taken me&mdash;for <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> thy beauty struck</span><br />
+<span>My weapon to my side! (<i>rapidly and passionately</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i11">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When I bore down</span><br />
+<span>Upon your chariot, I could have swept you</span><br />
+<span>With one arm from the world! But suddenly</span><br />
+<span>A missile struck your helmet and dislodged</span><br />
+<span>The glory of your face before my eyes,</span><br />
+<span>Your hair ran gold, the shining East looked black</span><br />
+<span>Behind the star you made upon its breast!</span><br />
+<span>I knew thee for a goddess, and stood still</span><br />
+<span>Meek captive to thy wish! O blest am I</span><br />
+<span>To learn thou art not greater than myself,</span><br />
+<span>But so much less that I may lift thee up!</span><br />
+<span>Fly with me&mdash;be my queen&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis tries to speak</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i14">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go, call them in!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page27" id="page27" title="27"></a><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> shout above their heads to reach thine ears!</span><br />
+<span>O, trust to me! In me thy brother lives!</span><br />
+<span>Come, and thy fallen father shall be brave</span><br />
+<span>Beneath Armenia&#8217;s smile! Here thou mayst save</span><br />
+<span>His life, but ne&#8217;er again will he know honor!</span><br />
+<span>Help me to fly and save three lives in one!</span><br />
+<span>Give me to Ninus&mdash;give me up to death,</span><br />
+<span>And with a father and a brother lost,</span><br />
+<span>Though thou wert worshipped &#8217;mong thy country&#8217;s gods</span><br />
+<span>Still thou couldst not be happy!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But come,</span><br />
+<span>And they are safe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Bewildered</i>) What do I hear?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, come!</span><br />
+<span>Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?</span><br />
+<span>It is the fire that dead puts out the light</span><br />
+<span>On every hearth, living makes all the world</span><br />
+<span>One altar feeding incense unto Heaven!</span><br />
+<span>It gives the soul to life, breath to the soul,</span><br />
+<span>Pulse to ambition, strength to warrior arms,&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Struggling with his fetters</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Such strength that they may break all captive bonds</span><br />
+<span>To clasp their own!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Breaks his fetters and attempts to embrace her as
+she retreats gazing at him as if fascinated. She escapes
+him, and throws off her bewilderment. He drops to his
+knees holding out his arms to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i10">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And love I offer thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Sir, I forgive thee, for thou knowest not</span><br />
+<span>To whom you speak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Know not!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I who am now</span><br />
+<span>Menones&#8217; daughter, ere the night shall be</span><br />
+<span>The bride of Ninus, king of all Assyria!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page28" id="page28" title="28"></a>(<i>Khosrove rises, bows before her, and stands with
+silent dignity</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> You&mdash;you&mdash;were saying&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nothing, royal madam.</span><br />
+<span>Have you not friends without?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis hesitates, goes to door and calls</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sumbat!</span><br />
+<span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Khosrove</i>) <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> safe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Ironically</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Assyria&#8217;s queen should know!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She does!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Sumbat and officers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unbound!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Ay, he is free! We only wait the word</span><br />
+<span>Of gracious Ninus. Guard him until then,</span><br />
+<span>We charge you, Sumbat. Keep you nearest him.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt Sumbat and officers with Khosrove</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> My father now! He must have heard the shouts</span><br />
+<span>Of victory, yet still he hides himself.</span><br />
+<span>... The king asked not for love. He is Assyria.</span><br />
+<span>I would not lessen him by love. Not yet....</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis my triumphant arms he weds. The heart</span><br />
+<span>Must sleep....</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice of guard at entrance.</strong> The king approaches!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i22">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!... The king!</span><br />
+<span>His word, and all is done. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> speak to him</span><br />
+<span>Before I see my father. Then I may say</span><br />
+<span>&lsquo;Thou art forgiven, and Artavan is safe!&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>... And Khosrove ... safe.... The royal chariot!...</span><br />
+<span>O, mother, send thy doves&mdash;I am once more</span><br />
+<span>A babe!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The king enters alone</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Art ready for thy king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And yet&mdash;a word before I go! Thou know&#8217;st</span><br />
+<span>That Khosrove is my prisoner&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page29" id="page29" title="29"></a><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Khosrove! He!</span><br />
+<span>We thought him slain!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, sir&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A prisoner!</span><br />
+<span>O, welcome gift! We ask no other dower!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> But, gracious lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Turning to entrance</i>) Ho, Vassin! <abbr>Khosrove &#8217;s</abbr> taken!</span><br />
+<span>Go! Find him out and drag him straight to dungeon!</span><br />
+<span>Bind him with chains until he can not move,</span><br />
+<span>Till <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> devised some bitter way of death!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> (<i>Without</i>) I haste, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong><ins title="Original reads 'Sem.'">Nin.</ins></strong> At last my enemy is &#8217;neath my feet!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Returning to Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>And &#8217;tis to thee we owe this gift of fortune!</span><br />
+<span>... You&#8217;re pale, Semiramis.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O king&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Taking her hands</i>) And trembling.</span><br />
+<span>Dost fear my greatness? Nay, thou ledst my army&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O, if for that thou ow&#8217;st me aught, grant me&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Whate&#8217;er thou wouldst!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My brother, Artavan,</span><br />
+<span>Is Husak&#8217;s captive! Thou canst save him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I?</span><br />
+<span>Then he is saved! But how! Tell me the way!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Husak will yield him up for Khosrove!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What</span><br />
+<span>Send Khosrove back alive! Not though the gods</span><br />
+<span>Commanded it! Alive! <abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> Husak slew</span><br />
+<span>My father, and his son shall die! Ten years</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> sought for this revenge! And give it up</span><br />
+<span>For a green lad fresh from the fields of Gazim?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> A warrior, sir, <abbr>who &#8217;ll</abbr> win thee many a battle!</span><br />
+<span>And crest thy glory with meridian stars!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> worth the price though pity lent no coin!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page30" id="page30" title="30"></a>Save him, my lord! A bridal boon I ask!</span><br />
+<span>Give me my brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A bridal boon <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> grant.</span><br />
+<span>Thou lov&#8217;st thy father?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Choking</i>) You know&mdash;that he&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I know.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Great king&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;One thou mayst save.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O gods!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Thy brother, or thy father? Thou mayst choose.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I know my duty, sir. I choose my father.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> A noble choice. We are not harsh, my queen.</span><br />
+<span>The people know Menones&#8217; life is forfeit,</span><br />
+<span>And know how I have sought for Khosrove&#8217;s death;</span><br />
+<span>Did I spare both for your sake they would say</span><br />
+<span>That Ninus&#8217; scepter is a woman&#8217;s hand.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Shouts of rejoicing without</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>But come! The chariot waits. The people call.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> First will I tell my father that he lives.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> waiting there the summons to his death.</span><br />
+<span>Ah, I must thank you sir.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes the king&#8217;s hand and kisses it. Goes through
+curtains, right, rear. Her cry is heard within. She
+returns.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Too late! <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> dead!</span><br />
+<span>Cold, cold, my father! Oh!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sobs, her hands covering her face</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Removing her hands and putting his arm about her</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i14">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> not alone,</span><br />
+<span>My bride!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Withdrawing and kneeling to him, her hands upraised</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O king, leave me my brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay!</span><br />
+<span>Did you not have your choice? You ask too much.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page31" id="page31" title="31"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) Ah, so I do! I should demand, not ask!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Demand!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, king! ... &#8217;Tis true <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not alone.</span><br />
+<span>My goddess mother is again with me</span><br />
+<span>As when this morn my heart exultant rode</span><br />
+<span>The tides of triumph! When the heavens rolled</span><br />
+<span>And like a stooping sea caught up my soul</span><br />
+<span>Till ranged with the applauding gods it clapped</span><br />
+<span>My courage on below! You offer me</span><br />
+<span>A place beside your throne. I offer you</span><br />
+<span>The hearts of all your subjects now my own,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The love&mdash;the worship of your mighty army!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Cries without</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>They shout my name&mdash;not yours&mdash;great Ninus! Hear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Shouts:</strong> Semiramis is queen! Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I bring a hand, with yours inlocked, shall reach</span><br />
+<span>O&#8217;er Asia&#8217;s breadth and draw her glory in!</span><br />
+<span>A heart ambitious with immortal beat</span><br />
+<span>To make Assyria greatest &#8217;neath the stars!</span><br />
+<span>And in return I ask my brother&#8217;s life!</span><br />
+<span>Give me your promise Khosrove goes to Husak,</span><br />
+<span>Or leave me where I stand&mdash;Menones&#8217; daughter!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Slowly, reading the determination in her face</i>)</span><br />
+<span>I promise.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Swear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I swear it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Relaxes, falls at his feet, and reaches up, clasping his hands</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, god Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page32" id="page32" title="32"></a><a name="play1act2" id="play1act2"></a>ACT II.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play1act2scene1" id="play1act2scene1"></a>The great hall in the palace of Nineveh. The rear is
+open, showing the sky and the towers of the city.
+Along the floor, which is high above the ground court,
+rear, are sculptured lions. On each side of hall where
+right and left reach open rear are large entrances, with
+steps leading up to hall, guarded by spearmen and
+archers. Within the hall, between winged bulls, are
+entrances to chambers, right centre and left centre. Near
+front, right, smaller entrance between figures of men
+with lion heads. The same opposite, left. The walls of
+the hall are lined with alabaster slabs on which are
+sculptured and colored the conquests of Assyrian kings.</p>
+
+<p class="italic">Ninus alone. Enter Vassin, left centre.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>As Vassin enters</i>)</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> told her?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What does she say?</span><br />
+<span>Does she suspect we ordered Khosrove&#8217;s torture?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> I can not answer that.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then answer this!</span><br />
+<span>You&#8217;re sure that he will die? You made good work?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> Good work, my lord. He can not live a day.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> A day! <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> hurried then! I bade you fill</span><br />
+<span>His wounds with mortal but a lingering bane!</span><br />
+<span>Go, have him brought within! He must not die</span><br />
+<span>Without my foot upon his neck!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>As Vassin is going</i>) What said</span><br />
+<span>The queen?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page33" id="page33" title="33"></a><strong>Vas.</strong> She cried &lsquo;My <abbr>brother &#8217;s</abbr> lost!&rsquo;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<ins title="Corrected from Errata">No more?</ins></span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> O, then her soul put sorrow&#8217;s grandeur on,</span><br />
+<span>And those about her saw a noble storm;</span><br />
+<span>But yet so proud her royal eyes, each drop</span><br />
+<span>That fell from them were worth a world</span><br />
+<span>To him for whom they fell!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Aside</i>) He loves the queen!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Semiramis, left, centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Is this thing true my lord? O, surely Heaven</span><br />
+<span>Will cry out &lsquo;No&rsquo; though thou must answer &lsquo;Ay!&rsquo;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>To Vassin</i>) Go! (<i>Exit Vassin, right front</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Is it true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Too true, my queen!</span><br />
+<span>Khosrove is maimed beyond all hope of life,</span><br />
+<span>And thou must make thy husband heir to love</span><br />
+<span>That was thy brother&#8217;s.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thy grief is mine.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I will not weep, though I could shed such streams</span><br />
+<span>As when the clouds from riven breast pour down</span><br />
+<span>Their torrent agonies!... How strange, my lord,</span><br />
+<span>The guards should venture so without your warrant!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> had their heads for it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Shocked</i>) Their heads!... Why, this</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis to be royal! Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Put by these thoughts,</span><br />
+<span>Semiramis. No theme to-day but love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Love, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, that! Thou lov&#8217;st me, dost thou not?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Thou art great Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> be loved as man!</span><br />
+<span>Forget my kingdom, and put arms about me</span><br />
+<span>As doth the peasant maid her beggar lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page34" id="page34" title="34"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Moving from him</i>) I thought thy greatness married my ambition</span><br />
+<span>To make Assyria brave e&#8217;en to the gods!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> keep my promise ... howsoever thine</span><br />
+<span>Is broken. Crowned, my glorious purpose beats</span><br />
+<span>Higher than any dream my maiden heart</span><br />
+<span>Could nourish! I will keep my word. But love?</span><br />
+<span>If thou wouldst have it&mdash;win it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Starts away, then turns back to him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i17">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hast yet found</span><br />
+<span>A governor for the city?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Delay</span><br />
+<span>At this unsettled time? Dost think it safe?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> ordered every tower-watch redoubled,</span><br />
+<span>Each gate close-locked, and keep the keys myself!</span><br />
+<span>None goes or comes till I have found the man</span><br />
+<span>For governor.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Would not Vassin serve?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>With suspicion</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> other use for him. Perchance <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> go</span><br />
+<span>From Nineveh.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord, <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> one from Gazim,</span><br />
+<span>Sumbat, <abbr>thou &#8217;lt</abbr> find as true as thine own heart.</span><br />
+<span>Who with some aid from me&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From you? So, so!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>In surprise</i>) I was my father&#8217;s head and hand, my lord.</span><br />
+<span>Who knows the guardian locks and wards and plans</span><br />
+<span>Secretive for thy safety but myself?</span><br />
+<span>Whom thou dost choose must learn somewhat of me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Ay, <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> nob heads together!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, well&mdash;</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> choose a man!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page35" id="page35" title="35"></a>(<i>Exit moodily, right centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Strange ... but he is the king!</span><br />
+<span>... Ah, Khosrove! Artavan!... Nay, I will think</span><br />
+<span>Of nothing but my duty to the crown!...</span><br />
+<span>... &ldquo;And with a father and a brother lost&mdash;&rdquo;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Sola, left, front. She sees that Semiramis is
+alone and advances</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> &ldquo;Though thou wert worshipped, thou couldst not be happy!&rdquo;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Tell me! When does he come?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who, child?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You ask?</span><br />
+<span>My husband&mdash;Artavan!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He will not come.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Art thou not queen?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And Ninus king.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> He will not save thy brother?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, he can not.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> O monster king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hush, Sola ... he forgave</span><br />
+<span>My father.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh!&mdash;because he knew him dead!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> He knew him dead!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, I will tell you now!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks about guardedly, and speaks in a low tone</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>I saw your father die&mdash;and Ninus saw him!</span><br />
+<span>Dokahra waked me&mdash;and unseen we watched!</span><br />
+<span>The king came to the tent&mdash;discovered all&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Doomed him to death&mdash;you to dishonor! Then</span><br />
+<span>Your father rose to strike him&mdash;and fell dead.</span><br />
+<span>The king&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go! Leave me, Sola! Leave me! Go!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Sola, left, near front</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Stands in silent horror, then speaks slowly</i>)</span><br />
+<span>... <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> keep my oath ... and crown. Still will I make</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page36" id="page36" title="36"></a>Assyria great. Assyria is the army,</span><br />
+<span>And I ... am queen of arms ... not love! Not love!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Ninus</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Softly, not seeing Ninus</i>)</span><br />
+<span>&ldquo;Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?&rdquo;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Advancing</i>) My bride!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Turning to him</i>) My lord, I would see Sumbat. Pray</span><br />
+<span>Let him be summoned.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> sworn this day</span><br />
+<span>Shall be for us alone!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> he I charged</span><br />
+<span>With care of the Armenian prince.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My queen</span><br />
+<span>Shall not be troubled.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;t will</abbr> not trouble me,</span><br />
+<span>My lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enough it troubles me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>He &#8217;d</abbr> know</span><br />
+<span>Of this foul fault, against your will&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Again</span><br />
+<span>That theme! Forget it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, my lord, forget</span><br />
+<span>That noble prince? So brave&mdash;so proud&mdash;so fair&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> What do you say? O, you changed eyes with him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> My lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This is your grief! Your brother! Ha!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Your majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not majesty! Fool! Fool!</span><br />
+<span>Ho, there! Bring in the Armenian! You shall see</span><br />
+<span>This noble prince! So brave&mdash;so proud&mdash;so fair!</span><br />
+<span>Her brother! O, fool, fool, fool!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This the king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Why, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> a fool, my lady!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page37" id="page37" title="37"></a>(<i>Guards enter right front with a half lifeless body</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Look on him!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> had some kisses since you saw him last</span><br />
+<span>That struck full deep!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Staggering back</i>) Is that&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, it is he!</span><br />
+<span>Look on him! &#8217;Tis your Khosrove! Your&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Majestically</i>) Peace Ninus!</span><br />
+<span>When you have knelt to me <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> hear you speak!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit left centre</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Stares after her and becomes calm</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Now I have ruined all. <abbr>She &#8217;ll</abbr> not forgive!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Vassin, left, rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> My lord, the brother of the queen has come.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Not Artavan?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, Artavan.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> When Husak had your oath <abbr>you &#8217;d</abbr> free his son,</span><br />
+<span>Prince Khosrove, Artavan was sent at once</span><br />
+<span>To Nineveh.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How could he pass</span><br />
+<span>The gates?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He passed before your order fell.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> welcome him.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks toward the queen&#8217;s room</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> make my peace with this.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes out with Vassin, left, rear. Semiramis enters
+hesitatingly, sees that Ninus is gone and advances
+fearfully toward the figure on the floor. The guards
+stand back, right front. She retreats, covering her eyes;
+then approaches and bends over the body. Searches
+his face, and throws up her hands in sudden joy</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Not Khosrove! O, it is not Khosrove!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Leaves him and hurries to exit, trying to suppress
+her emotion. Returns to the body</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page38" id="page38" title="38"></a>Where is the prince? Poor wretch! Can you not speak?</span><br />
+<span>... Are these thy ways, ambition?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Voice without.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Way! Make way!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis hurries to her room. Enter the king, left
+rear, walking with Khosrove, and followed by Vassin and
+Sumbat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Speak not of going, Artavan!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I must,</span><br />
+<span>O king! I pray your leave to go at once</span><br />
+<span>To Gazim. Sudden troubles urge me there.</span><br />
+<span>I beg your kingly warrant I may pass</span><br />
+<span>The gates&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, you shall stay! We shall persuade you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span>(<i>To attendant</i>) Summon the queen. Her voice <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> add to ours.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We like you, Artavan! By Bel,</span><br />
+<span>We do! You&#8217;re worthy of your sister queen!</span><br />
+<span>No more&mdash;<abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> stay! ... See! This is Khosrove!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i9">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Bends over body on the floor</i>) Is&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span>Or was? ... He lives.... Think you these bones will hold</span><br />
+<span>Until they reach old Husak? Now <abbr>you &#8217;ve</abbr> come,</span><br />
+<span>We must keep faith! Ha! ha!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And that&mdash;is Khosrove?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Truth, &#8217;tis! ... Bear out the dog!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards bear off body, right front. Enter Semiramis.
+Sumbat crosses to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> My brother? Where?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here! (<i>Advancing to her</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Semiramis</i>) Be not amazed</span><br />
+<span>And Artavan is safe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This <abbr>welcome &#8217;s</abbr> cold</span><br />
+<span>Methinks. We gave him warmer greeting.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir,</span><br />
+<span>Such sudden joy&mdash;My brother knows <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> none</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page39" id="page39" title="39"></a>I hold more dear.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How now? Not one?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Dropping her eyes from Khosrove</i>) Yes&mdash;one&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Perhaps.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Pleased, taking her hand</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We are forgiven?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indeed, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> And for your brother, hear our royal word.</span><br />
+<span>We make him governor of Nineveh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>In alarm</i>) No! no!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8217;Tis done! Go, Vassin, bring the keys!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Vassin, right front</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>And wear this ring, my general!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord,</span><br />
+<span>I could not undertake&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You shall!&mdash;The queen</span><br />
+<span>Will charge you with all duties.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No! I will not!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Ay, ay! We know we please you &#8217;gainst your word</span><br />
+<span>And not your will.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He is too young, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Menones was too old. And <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> yourself</span><br />
+<span>Who taught us how to prize your brother.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Vassin with a chain of great keys, which
+the king takes</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i21">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Come!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Throws chains about Khosrove&#8217;s neck, and singles
+out the keys</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>The citadel! The southern arsenal!</span><br />
+<span>The northern wall&mdash;the secret passages&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And these the tunnel locks and river gates!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> take command at once, and so relieve</span><br />
+<span>The city which <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> shut fast as a tomb,</span><br />
+<span>Fearing that spies from Husak&#8217;s camp might creep</span><br />
+<span>Into our bosom.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page40" id="page40" title="40"></a><strong class="i5">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wisely done, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O king, <abbr>if &#8217;t</abbr> must be so, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> map for him</span><br />
+<span>My fathers safe division of the city.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> To you we leave him.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Talks apart with Vassin and Sumbat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir, what do you mean?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Hurriedly</i>) When Vassin came to take me into charge,</span><br />
+<span>Sumbat contrived another should be sent&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> We know the rest! But how save Artavan?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> When I have entered Husak&#8217;s camp <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> free!</span><br />
+<span>You trust me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, I must! I do! But not</span><br />
+<span>To save my brother may I trust to you</span><br />
+<span>The city&#8217;s keys! You are Assyria&#8217;s foe&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Not now! No more a foe, but truest friend!</span><br />
+<span>For in my heart you are Assyria,</span><br />
+<span>And you <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> serve&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cut short thy schooling, for</span><br />
+<span>The city waits.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Aloud, mapping in her hand</i>) The river here divides</span><br />
+<span>The eastern guard&mdash;(<i>lowers her voice</i>) I must not do this! No!</span><br />
+<span>Risk every soul in Nineveh&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Did I</span><br />
+<span>Not trust thee when I entered here? I knew</span><br />
+<span>The face that shone upon me in the battle</span><br />
+<span>Would not betray me! Who gives perfect trust</span><br />
+<span>Is worthy of it! Thou dost know me true</span><br />
+<span>By Heaven&#8217;s sign that only souls may read!</span><br />
+<span>I can not say what I would say because</span><br />
+<span>Thou art a wife, but wert thou not a wife,</span><br />
+<span>Though thou wert thousand times a queen, <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> pour</span><br />
+<span>Such worship to your ears you would believe</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page41" id="page41" title="41"></a>My heart would rend my body&#8217;s walls and leap</span><br />
+<span>Out of my bosom sooner than beat once</span><br />
+<span>A traitor to your trust! Take Ninus&#8217; ring!</span><br />
+<span>Give me this little one&mdash;(<i>slipping a ring from her finger</i>) that hath enclosed</span><br />
+<span>The sovereign rose and ruby of thy veins</span><br />
+<span>That dims his purple power&mdash;and thee I serve&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Your general&mdash;not his! Whate&#8217;er you would</span><br />
+<span>I will! Command me now&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enough! Go, go!</span><br />
+<span>Lose no more time!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, in some dream to come,</span><br />
+<span>When innocence may wear what form it will</span><br />
+<span>And on thy waking nature leave no blush,</span><br />
+<span>May words I must not speak take life and pay</span><br />
+<span>The debt they owe this hour!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I beg you go!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Assyria &#8217;s</abbr> in your hands!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, in my heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Come, Artavan! No more delay! Your troops</span><br />
+<span>Await before the citadel.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I go,</span><br />
+<span>My lord.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Confusion without, left rear. Enter an officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pardon, your majesty! A man</span><br />
+<span>Who says <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> brother to the queen, makes bold</span><br />
+<span>To press before you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yet another brother?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> No, no, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He comes from Husak&#8217;s camp.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> It is some madman surely, or a spy</span><br />
+<span>Who plays his wits are lost and takes this way</span><br />
+<span>To force into the court!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> thrust him out!</span><br />
+<span>He may mean danger to your person.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page42" id="page42" title="42"></a><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> sport with him. Let him come in!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Your brother! Ho, ho, ho!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Artavan</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My sister!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Staring</i>) Sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> Though queen, art thou not still my sister?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i22">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> (<i>Bowing with scornful ceremony</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Your majesty!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ha! ha! His sister! Then</span><br />
+<span>Thou wouldst be brother to the king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Bitterly</i>) My hope</span><br />
+<span>Runs not so high, and even to her I now</span><br />
+<span>Give up all claim. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> own no blood but that</span><br />
+<span>In my own veins keeps honor! So farewell!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Be not so fast! Whence comest thou, my man?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> From Husak&#8217;s camp. When he received thy word</span><br />
+<span>His son should go to him, he set me free.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Oh, set you free!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And now, O king&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Seeing that the king is impressed</i>) My lord,</span><br />
+<span>If he came from the camp how has he passed</span><br />
+<span>The city gates?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah ... true ... he could not pass.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Mockingly</i>) Perhaps he scaled the hundred feet of wall,</span><br />
+<span>And crossed the rampart &#8217;neath the arrow watch</span><br />
+<span>Of towers eighty-score!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I found a way,</span><br />
+<span>Proud woman!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How?</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page43" id="page43" title="43"></a>(<i>As Artavan speaks Sola enters left front, and is held
+aside by Sumbat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This morning ere the battle</span><br />
+<span>She who was then my sister gave me this.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Shows paper</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> some direction sent unto my father,</span><br />
+<span>The lord Menones. (<i>Turning paper</i>) On this side I found</span><br />
+<span>A map whose secret key I knew, that marked</span><br />
+<span>A passage &#8217;neath the river. This I sought,</span><br />
+<span>Found it unguarded&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By the seven winds!&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter an officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> O king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You&#8217;re of the northern watch?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am,</span><br />
+<span>O king! The Armenians advance upon</span><br />
+<span>The northern wall, but come with lances down!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> They come in peace to meet the son of Husak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O, haste, my lord! Haste, Artavan to duty!</span><br />
+<span>Their rage when they shall learn the fate of Khosrove</span><br />
+<span>May give them courage to assail our walls!</span><br />
+<span>Go, brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hold! This man speaks not as madmen!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Should I not know my brother, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You should.</span><br />
+<span>Choose which is he. The other we condemn</span><br />
+<span>To death.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> (<i>Holding out his arms</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Save me, Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Holding out his arms</i>) Save me,</span><br />
+<span>My sister!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Going to Khosrove&#8217;s arms</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i6">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Khosrove</i>) Haste thee to thy office!</span><br />
+<span>Vassin, attend him! Sumbat, be his chief!</span><br />
+<span>We trust where trusts the queen!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Khosrove</i>) Give up the keys</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page44" id="page44" title="44"></a>To Sumbat!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt Khosrove, Vassin, Sumbat, left rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>To Artavan</i>) You to death! (<i>Signs to guards</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My royal lord,</span><br />
+<span>First would I question him alone, and learn</span><br />
+<span>The truth about this passage. He may be</span><br />
+<span>In league with traitors subtler than himself.</span><br />
+<span>One moment, sir, I pray.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, ever wise!</span><br />
+<span>Bribe him with any promise death may keep</span><br />
+<span>To tell you all. But do not linger, love;</span><br />
+<span>We lose our bridal day!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit, right centre. Semiramis
+looks at Artavan with the greatest tenderness. He
+gazes coldly upon her, Sola clinging to him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What would the queen?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> To be again thy sister. Dost not guess?</span><br />
+<span>That man&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who can he be you prize above</span><br />
+<span>Your honor and my life?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The son of him</span><br />
+<span>Who set you free on Ninus&#8217; oath, an oath</span><br />
+<span>Broke in the heart ere it had left the lips!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> My brave Semiramis! <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> saved the prince,</span><br />
+<span>And with his life my honor! O, pardon me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> He was escaping in your name when you</span><br />
+<span>Arrived too soon&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgive me that!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And now</span><br />
+<span>To save my brother!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hope it not. Be glad</span><br />
+<span>That one is safe. Had Khosrove lost his life</span><br />
+<span>In Ninus&#8217; court, my oath had driven me back</span><br />
+<span>To Husak&mdash;and to death. No power then</span><br />
+<span>Had saved me. Now&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now thou shalt live!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page45" id="page45" title="45"></a><strong class="i19">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, see!</span><br />
+<span>His guards watch well! There is no way.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No way</span><br />
+<span>But through the will of Ninus. He shall save thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> O, for your own dear life, Semiramis,</span><br />
+<span>Let Ninus know not I am Artavan!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> He dare not touch me, for the <abbr>army &#8217;s</abbr> mine!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes into Ninus&#8217; chamber</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> My love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8217;Tis welcome and farewell, my Sola!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> O, she will save thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Teach me not to hope.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A band of dancing maidens enter, left, and sing a
+bridal chorus before the doors of Ninus&#8217; chamber</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p><span>Love and Beauty now are one,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;No more wandering away!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Love &#8217;s</abbr> the sky to Beauty&#8217;s sun,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;From him she can not stray.</span><br />
+<span>And he is bright by her fair light or none!</span></p>
+
+<p><span>Love and Beauty dreaming lie,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Who shall say it is not meet?</span><br />
+<span>Who shall say, O fie, O fie,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;To the favor sweet</span><br />
+<span>That Love will ask and Beauty not deny?</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Maidens dance out, right. Re-enter Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> wild with rage! I can not calm him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh,</span><br />
+<span>To lose thee now!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Ninus. He advances upon Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who is he, then&mdash;that man&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>If not thy brother? To whose arms you went</span><br />
+<span>As you have never come to mine?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A man</span><br />
+<span>Whose life you owed to me by holiest promise</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page46" id="page46" title="46"></a>And oath unto the gods! I saved your soul</span><br />
+<span>When I so saved&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speak! Who?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The son of Husak,</span><br />
+<span>Prince Khosrove, of Armenia!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Utter silence. Ninus stands choked and dumb; then
+moves to strike Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Strike me</span><br />
+<span>You strike your army!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus drops his hand and stares at her, livid and
+shaken, then turns fiercely upon Artavan</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Rushes before him and falls, clinging to his knees</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i11">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wait, O wait, my lord!</span><br />
+<span>If thou dost Hope to know my love! Dost dream</span><br />
+<span>Of bridal joy! Wouldst rest thy head in peace</span><br />
+<span>Upon my bosom, say thou wilt forgive!</span><br />
+<span>And I, too, will forgive! No more will ask</span><br />
+<span>What thou hast done or not done! All thy past</span><br />
+<span>Is fair as Heaven by this moment&#8217;s sun!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> love thee as thou hadst been born this hour</span><br />
+<span>That gives my brother life! O, speak the word,</span><br />
+<span>And take me to thy heart&mdash;thy wife&mdash;thy slave&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> By earth and heaven, he shall die&mdash;and now!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Raises his dagger to strike. Enter Vassin</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> (<i>Excitedly</i>) My lord, this is the strangest governor!</span><br />
+<span>He ordered me with Sumbat to lead out</span><br />
+<span>The city troops beyond the southern gate,</span><br />
+<span>Then spurred to north! Sumbat obeyed, but I,</span><br />
+<span>Not liking this, returned to you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8217;Tis Khosrove!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> (<i>Staggered</i>) Then we are lost!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pursue him! Fly! Call back</span><br />
+<span>Our troops!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Vas.</strong> Too late! By now they&#8217;re locked without</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page47" id="page47" title="47"></a>The southern wall, and Khosrove rides to ope</span><br />
+<span>The north to Husak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Aside</i>) False! Down, slanderous thought</span><br />
+<span>That darkens me not him! That face that looked</span><br />
+<span>As Truth had chosen it to show her own</span><br />
+<span>To man! That voice&mdash;each word the enchanted door</span><br />
+<span>To holier worlds unspoken! No. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> trust!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter an officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> O, great Assyria, the Armenians come!</span><br />
+<span>The Gazim <abbr>traitor &#8217;s</abbr> sold thee unto Husak!</span><br />
+<span>Thy foes are pouring through the northern gate</span><br />
+<span>And bear down on the palace! Sumbat holds</span><br />
+<span>Thy troops upon the southern plain And bars</span><br />
+<span>All passage! <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> no help!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus listens speechless</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Attendants.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Running in</i>) O, we are lost!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> The city will be sacked! The palace guards</span><br />
+<span>Are but a handful!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;False? O, Khosrove! False?</span><br />
+<span>Then there is no man true? E&#8217;en Sumbat lost</span><br />
+<span>To thy sweet promises! False! false!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter a second officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Prostrating himself</i>) Oh Ninus!</span><br />
+<span>Call on thy gods! Thy enemies are at thee!</span><br />
+<span>The palace is enclosed, and every foe</span><br />
+<span>Bears in his hand a torch that blazes death</span><br />
+<span>To all within!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The inmates of the palace are running to and fro,
+rear, and looking fearfully out into the court below</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O beauteous gods, is this</span><br />
+<span>Your earth? Where Falsehood steals your garments, nay</span><br />
+<span>Your smile, seduces with your voice, and stamps</span><br />
+<span>Your semblance upon fiends?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Voices.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Save us, O king!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus stands immovable,
+as if made deaf and dumb by impending disaster</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page48" id="page48" title="48"></a><strong>Voice.</strong> We burn! They cast the brands!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Another.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not yet! They wait!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voices of prostrate figures.</strong> Save us, O king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice.</strong> See! see! The leader speaks!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Another.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His herald! Hear!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A trumpet sounds below</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voice of Khosrove&#8217;s herald.</strong> Assyria, come forth!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All within listen, silent, eager, fearful</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Hear thou, O Ninus! Hear the word of Khosrove!</span><br />
+<span>He will depart with the Armenian troops,</span><br />
+<span>And leave the city free of sword and fire,</span><br />
+<span>If <abbr>thou &#8217;lt</abbr> decree that Artavan shall live</span><br />
+<span>Free and unharmed!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The face of Semiramis illumines with joy</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i10">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deny and Nineveh</span><br />
+<span>Shall flame!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My herald there! Stand forth!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The herald of Ninus takes station centre rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i22">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Decree</span><br />
+<span>As Khosrove wills!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Her. of Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Appear, O Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Her. of Khos.</strong> Appear, O Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ninus goes slowly to rear and stands by his herald</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Her. of Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear, all Nineveh!</span><br />
+<span>Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god!</span><br />
+<span>That Artavan, the brother of the queen,</span><br />
+<span>Shall freely live, and die by no man&#8217;s hand!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Her. of Ninus.</strong> (<i>Blows trumpet, then speaks</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god,</span><br />
+<span>That Artavan, the brother of the queen,</span><br />
+<span>Shall freely live, and die by no man&#8217;s hand!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. The voice of Khosrove below</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Assyria, speak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I, Ninus, so decree!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page49" id="page49" title="49"></a>(<i>Staggers back toward front as all press to rear to
+see the troops go out. Semiramis, Artavan and Sola
+stand together gazing out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O, Khosrove! See&mdash;he rides&mdash;away&mdash;away!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Leans forward waving her scarf. Ninus, alone in
+front, goes toward his chamber, falls on the steps <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">overpowered</ins>
+with rage and lifts his clenched hands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> O, vengeance! Vengeance for a king!</span></p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play1act3" id="play1act3"></a>ACT III.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play1act3scene1" id="play1act3scene1"></a>Scene: The gardens over the lake. A wide bridge
+extends from the bank of the lake, left, to the gardens
+which are partly visible on the right. At the rear, right,
+is a garlanded archway. At the left, front, steps lead
+from the bridge to the bank and top of the bridge. Beyond
+the bridge, rear, clouds show that the sun is setting.</p>
+
+<p class="italic">A score of spearmen, with lances down, march in
+right, front, and out through archway, right, rear.</p>
+
+<p class="italic">Enter, right, front, the king and Sumbat. The king
+is royally clad and crowned; Sumbat in official robe.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sumbat.</strong> Khosrove delays.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But do not doubt <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> come.</span><br />
+<span>I have his word, and couriers have seen</span><br />
+<span>His horsemen on the plain.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How noble, sir,</span><br />
+<span>To close the Feast of Peace with supreme revel</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page50" id="page50" title="50"></a>In honor of your foe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not foe, good Sumbat.</span><br />
+<span>We have no foes. Our queen&#8217;s triumphant arms</span><br />
+<span>Have made glad subjects of all enemies</span><br />
+<span>But one, and him we make our friend. To-night</span><br />
+<span>Assyria and Armenia sup as one!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Turns toward right, rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> see if <abbr>all &#8217;s</abbr> prepared as we gave order.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt under the arch of garlands. Dancers enter,
+right, front, and pass out through arch. Following
+them, Semiramis with her women. All are in rich attire
+but the queen who wears simple white robe. A dove
+nestles on her bosom. She gives the women leave to pass
+on and they go out merrily through arch, right, rear.
+Semiramis lingers; comes to the railing of the bridge,
+centre, and leans upon it</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Will Khosrove come? I do not doubt the king,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And yet&mdash;I pray he will not come!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Sumbat, through arch. He comes out to
+the queen</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You, Sumbat?</span><br />
+<span>Where is the king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I left him in the garden,</span><br />
+<span>Giving new orders for Prince Khosrove&#8217;s honor.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Sumbat, you trust the king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I do. <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> wrought</span><br />
+<span>Such noble change in him that drop by drop</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> mated all his blood unto your virtues.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I must believe it, lest a doubt should breed</span><br />
+<span>The weakness it suspects. But <abbr>is &#8217;t</abbr> not strange</span><br />
+<span>Khosrove should trust him too?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He knows that you</span><br />
+<span>Would warn him if there lay a danger here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I warn him? But suppose the warning false?</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page51" id="page51" title="51"></a><abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> wrong the king, whose purpose seems so pure</span><br />
+<span>It might have journeyed with his soul when first</span><br />
+<span>It came from Heaven! No. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> answer for him!</span><br />
+<span>He could not counterfeit so deep my eyes</span><br />
+<span>Would find no bottom to deceit!... But now</span><br />
+<span>What hast thou heard of Artavan?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No word.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I fear&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sum.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> safe. Be sure of that. No man</span><br />
+<span>Would dare lay finger on him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But to go</span><br />
+<span>Without a word! Poor Sola grieves, and weeps</span><br />
+<span>As though <abbr>she &#8217;d</abbr> drown her wits in tears.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A boat glides from under the bridge and over the
+water beneath them</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i21">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;See there!</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis she! Alone below!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sola alights from boat and runs up steps to the bridge</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> speak to her.</span></p>
+
+<p><span>Go, Sumbat! (<i>Sumbat goes off right</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i6">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sister, stay.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Stops Sola as she is passing</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Why do you run?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> running from the king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The king, my love?</span><br />
+<span><abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> no king here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> below!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Below?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Under the bridge with Vassin!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Vassin? No.</span><br />
+<span>The king has sent him out of Nineveh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> He did not go. I swear that <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> below!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> What were you doing &#8217;neath the bridge?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah me,</span><br />
+<span>I seek in every place for Artavan.</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page52" id="page52" title="52"></a><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> save him from the king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So kind a king?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> O, kind! As death, or plague, or leprosy!</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis he has taken revenge on Artavan!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> kill the prince, too, when he comes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My child&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> (<i>Pointing down</i>)</span><br />
+<span>I heard them talking there!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thy <abbr>husband &#8217;s</abbr> safe.</span><br />
+<span>Bethink thee that the king&#8217;s decree protects him.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> Not from the king! From man, not from the gods,</span><br />
+<span>And Ninus is a god, or dreams he is!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> From man&mdash;not from&mdash;no, no! I will not say</span><br />
+<span>Or think it! My poor child&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> save the prince?</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis you he trusts, not Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sweet, be calm.</span><br />
+<span>You did not see the king.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hear all, and save him!</span><br />
+<span>When Khosrove takes the seat of highest honor,</span><br />
+<span>Lord of the Revels by Assyria&#8217;s favor,</span><br />
+<span>The floor will part, the chair fall to the lake,</span><br />
+<span>Where Vassin waits to slay him, while the king</span><br />
+<span>Strikes down in wrath the master of the feast</span><br />
+<span>For fault of accident!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Where are your wits?</span><br />
+<span>See, yonder comes the king!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Ninus through archway</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>As he approaches</i>) Is all prepared,</span><br />
+<span>My lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> (<i>To Semiramis</i>) &#8217;Tis true&mdash;true&mdash;true!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Runs off, right</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, all is ready</span><br />
+<span>Except the queen. What means these simple robes,</span><br />
+<span>Semiramis?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page53" id="page53" title="53"></a><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A compliment unto</span><br />
+<span>Your majesty.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It shows more like affront!</span><br />
+<span>I would have Khosrove see a splendor here</span><br />
+<span>Unpainted in the daring of his dream,</span><br />
+<span>And thou the star of it! A merchant&#8217;s daughter</span><br />
+<span>Would robe her handmaid with more care&mdash;lend her</span><br />
+<span>A pearl or two&mdash;a bit of scarf&mdash;or scrap</span><br />
+<span>Of tinsel sun&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A compliment!</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis your disdain&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It grieves me, sir, that you</span><br />
+<span>Should read in outward sign what never yet</span><br />
+<span>Was in my soul. Our wars are done, my lord;</span><br />
+<span>And exultation of the conquering hour</span><br />
+<span>Calms into peace; as I laid armor by</span><br />
+<span>For victor robes and symbol of my glory,</span><br />
+<span>I now cast off the purple of the queen,</span><br />
+<span>And but remember that I am a wife.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Embracing her</i>) Beloved Semiramis! Forgive thy slave!</span><br />
+<span>No royal dye could shine so to my eyes</span><br />
+<span>As this soft white put on for me alone!</span><br />
+<span>Thy pardon, love, and thou shalt shortly learn</span><br />
+<span>A king, too, knows how best to compliment!</span><br />
+<span>An honor waits for thee&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter officer, left</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We hear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> The Armenian approaches.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Khosrove comes?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis watches the king closely</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> He comes, great Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, and more than well!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page54" id="page54" title="54"></a>Summon our train. (<i>Exit officer, right</i>) But one is lacking here,</span><br />
+<span>Our brother&mdash;Artavan.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;you think&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Who would dare harm him? He is safe.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Coming very near him</i>) From man,</span><br />
+<span>Not from the gods.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Stepping back</i>) What do you mean?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The truth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Seizing her arm</i>) It is not so! I do deny it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Calmly</i>) What,</span><br />
+<span>My lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What meant you when you said &lsquo;the truth&rsquo;!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> That gods may work some harm to Artavan.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>At ease</i>) True, love! Uncertain is their favor. Look!</span><br />
+<span>He comes! (<i>Gazing off left</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> false! And if <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> false in this&mdash;then is&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>O, Khosrove, thou art lured to death! And I</span><br />
+<span>Have been thy traitorous star!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Khosrove, left, attended by Armenians</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hail, Khosrove! Hail!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Assyrians.</strong> Hail to Armenia! Hail!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, Ninus, hail!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Armenians.</strong> Hail to Assyria, greatest over kings!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> welcome, and we thank thee for thy trust,</span><br />
+<span>Which <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> betray when Heaven has no god</span><br />
+<span>To damn our treachery! In proof of faith,</span><br />
+<span>Wear thou the royal dagger with thy own.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Detaches his weapon, which he gives to Khosrove</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Our queen&mdash;has she no word?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Khosrove bows low before Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Peace and long life</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page55" id="page55" title="55"></a>To Khosrove.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now to revel! Sound the trumpets!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt officers through archway. Trumpets sound
+from the gardens. Dancing maidens in white robes, each
+with a dove resting on her hand, enter right front, reach
+the centre of the stage, and begin the dance of doves. As
+the maidens describe circles in the dance the doves rise
+and fly in similar circles above their heads, and re-alight
+on their extended hands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Who has stood aside during the dance, apparently disturbed</i>)</span><br />
+<span>It is not true! Were any man so vile</span><br />
+<span>Nature would spurn him back to chaos ere</span><br />
+<span>His mother had beheld him!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The dance ends. The maidens pass out under arch.
+All move to follow when Ninus speaks</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay! Hear, all!</span><br />
+<span>Before we feast in honor of our guest,</span><br />
+<span>We would do honor to our noble queen,</span><br />
+<span>Whose arms of might have brought our land to peace.</span><br />
+<span>Whose looks of love have brought our heart to rest!</span><br />
+<span>To-night we doff our crown that she may wear it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Removing crown</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>And here decree her word shall be obeyed</span><br />
+<span>Above our own.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Puts crown on the queen&#8217;s head</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i8">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dost like our compliment?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> It is too much, my king.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Kneeling</i>) Nay, nay, thy subject!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis seems gay with a sudden resolve</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> If it so please thee then <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be the king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) We have decreed. If any here refuse</span><br />
+<span>To honor thy command, though thou shouldst doom</span><br />
+<span>My death, himself that instant dies. (<i>To officer</i>) You, sir,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page56" id="page56" title="56"></a>Take order for it, and if your own hand fail,</span><br />
+<span>When we are king again <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> have your head!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Off.</strong> My arm be as your will, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, then</span><br />
+<span>I have a wish I did not dare to voice.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> Command it now.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It hath much troubled me</span><br />
+<span>That Khosrove should be honored over you,</span><br />
+<span>Lord of the Revels.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Astonished</i>) Lady&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;King, <abbr>if &#8217;t</abbr> please you!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> laid my purple by, but I have still</span><br />
+<span>The royal color in my heart. Think&#8217;st thou</span><br />
+<span>To sit above Assyria, who wearest not</span><br />
+<span>The brave investment of the gods? who hold&#8217;st</span><br />
+<span>Thy sceptre still from warrior chiefs, not from</span><br />
+<span>Anointed kings?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Because my race is proud!</span><br />
+<span>Too proud to kneel to any earthly king</span><br />
+<span>And take the sacred vestment from his hands!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> You see, my lord, that even in his heart</span><br />
+<span>He ranks himself above you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But, my love&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Farewell! Thou didst me service once, and here</span><br />
+<span>I thought to thank thee, but&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay, Khosrove, stay!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Farewell, with all my heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, my lord.</span><br />
+<span>Let him depart. He mocks our glory, and bears</span><br />
+<span>A challenge in his proud simplicity</span><br />
+<span>That puts our splendor to defense.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, madam!</span><br />
+<span>I came to lay my duty at your feet,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page57" id="page57" title="57"></a>And lift my eyes no higher than your hand</span><br />
+<span>Without your royal leave! But now <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> cast</span><br />
+<span>My gaze upon the stars, forgetting that</span><br />
+<span>You walk beneath them! (<i>Going</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stay, O prince!</span></p>
+
+<p><span>(<i>To Semiramis</i>) A boon, your majesty! <abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> blot our honor</span><br />
+<span>To send him from us thus! We shall be plunged</span><br />
+<span>Anew in wars, for Husak will avenge it!</span><br />
+<span>I am thy most unhappy subject, and</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Thou &#8217;lt</abbr> hear my prayer!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes after Khosrove and leads him back</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> stay, O Khosrove?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i22">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay,</span><br />
+<span>On one condition.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Name it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That you will take</span><br />
+<span>Our seat at feast.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That is our command!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> No, no!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> have it so!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Nin.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not consent!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> It is our royal order! Guards for Ninus!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> What do you mean?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To have our way! Guards here!</span><br />
+<span>You shall not do this wrong to your high self!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> look unto your honor! (<i>To guards</i>) Bear him in!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards stand in amazement</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Did ye not hear the king&#8217;s decree? I reign!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards take hold of Ninus</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Nin.</strong> By Hut and Nim!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Place him in Khosrove&#8217;s seat!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards draw Ninus through the archway. Khosrove
+<a class="page" name="page58" id="page58" title="58"></a>follows, then all but Semiramis, who lingers fearfully,
+runs toward front, then back and listens</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> &#8217;Tis true! What have I done? Ye gods! &#8217;tis true!</span><br />
+<span>He would not so rebel if <abbr>&#8217;t were</abbr> not true!</span><br />
+<span>But Vassin is below! <abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> know his king</span><br />
+<span>And save him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i3">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Kneels</i>) Belus, mighty Belus, pardon!</span></p>
+
+<p><!-- ( missing in original -->(<i>The sun has set, and red clouds show almost black
+over water, rear. The front of stage is nearly dark.
+Lights glimmer from the gardens, and a faint torch
+shows in the darkness under the bridge. Shouts and
+shrieks come from within. People rush out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voices.</strong> The king! the king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Retreating to railing, front</i>) &#8217;Tis done!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Officer.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Running across</i>) The king has fallen</span><br />
+<span>Into the lake! Lights there! below! (<i>Runs down steps leading under the bridge</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Other officers following.</strong> Lights! lights!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Torches flare under the bridge. Darkness above as
+the last light fades from the sky. A moment of noise and
+search, and officers appear on the bridge, right, rear,
+with Vassin. A guard bears torch which throws light on
+his face</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Confronting him</i>)</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> saved the king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Vas.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I have. For I have slain</span><br />
+<span>His foe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His foe? No&mdash;you have killed the king!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Falls back into the arms of her women. Complete
+darkness on stage. An instant later moonlight. Khosrove
+and Semiramis alone on the bridge, centre, front</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Bowing ceremoniously</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Farewell, Assyria!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, not that name!</span><br />
+<span>Not yet&mdash;not yet.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Does it not please your pride?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page59" id="page59" title="59"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> My pride? &#8217;Tis gone. Now I could lay my head</span><br />
+<span>Upon the dust.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In truth! But <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> not do it!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Humility &#8217;s</abbr> a word the great think sweet</span><br />
+<span>Upon the tongue, but near the heart they find</span><br />
+<span>It loseth flavor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah ... you do not know?</span><br />
+<span>You think the words I spoke were born of pride?</span><br />
+<span>So far from that&mdash;no, no&mdash;I will not tell,</span><br />
+<span>And yet you wrong me, prince.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Eagerly</i>) Did you suspect</span><br />
+<span>Some danger to me here, and seek to force</span><br />
+<span>My angry leave? You did not care so much?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> I cared so much that rather than betray you</span><br />
+<span>I would have let you go believing me</span><br />
+<span>A woman worth your scorn. Ah, there my pride</span><br />
+<span>In truth did suffer!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, Semiramis!</span><br />
+<span>Thou art the same as when I saw thee last?</span><br />
+<span>As when I rode away and left thy face&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The only face in Nineveh&mdash;nay&mdash;I&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Will go. Farewell, most noble queen!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Farewell!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>He lingers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Why go in haste?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I left my father sick.</span><br />
+<span>He will be troubled till I come again.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> How dared you trust&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What would I not have dared</span><br />
+<span>To look on thee again?... My horsemen wait....</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Waving toward left</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>I come!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Farewell!... Armenia is my friend?</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sad.... The manner of this death.... It weighs</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page60" id="page60" title="60"></a>Upon me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Let it not. <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> innocent</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O, some may doubt!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But who wrongs Virtue puts</span><br />
+<span>A crown upon her! If thou hadst foreknown</span><br />
+<span>The accident&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The accident?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> not</span><br />
+<span>Designed?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It was ... for you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By Ninus?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay.</span><br />
+<span>You were to die.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then you&mdash;you knew&mdash;that he&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Starts from her in horror</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> <abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> in thy mind? What thought doth paint thy face</span><br />
+<span>In dreadful silence? Oh! you think that I&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks at him with equal horror. Removes farther
+from him, regains composure, and speaks with haughty
+coldness</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>This serves me well! Right well, Armenian!</span><br />
+<span>Yes&mdash;yes&mdash;I knew&mdash;I knew the king would fall.</span><br />
+<span>But knew, too, sir, that Vassin was below,</span><br />
+<span>And, by my precious gods, I did not dream</span><br />
+<span>He would not save his king! While you&mdash;my guest&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>You would have gone to death!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgive me!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis walks farther, not heeding him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i21">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh,</span><br />
+<span>I found a stream that ran from heavenly springs</span><br />
+<span>And in it cast the soot of hell!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well served&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Well served, Semiramis!... I was so sad ...</span><br />
+<span>And would not be content to let him go ...</span><br />
+<span>I wanted but a word ... a word to cheer me ...</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page61" id="page61" title="61"></a>And now I have it&mdash;murderess!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Who has advanced to her</i>) No, no,</span><br />
+<span>I did not say it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The tongue may well keep silent</span><br />
+<span>When eyes speak lightning. I have heard too much!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T were</abbr> better I had let you die!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, better ...</span><br />
+<span>Better than this!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, now I am Assyria!</span><br />
+<span>No more a woman! Softness to the winds!</span><br />
+<span>And let my heart be as my armor&mdash;steel!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Thou canst not make it so by saying it.</span><br />
+<span>There is no cold or heat may temper hearts</span><br />
+<span>Away from their true nature. Mail thyself</span><br />
+<span>From head to foot, <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> still Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> A queen!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>An officer enters, left</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Off.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty, an urgent hand</span><br />
+<span>Brings this report.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Gives paper to her, which she reads</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Ghecs are in revolt!</span><br />
+<span>Thank them for me! They could not show me favor</span><br />
+<span>More to my heart!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit officer, left</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i9">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sick of peace&mdash;this peace</span><br />
+<span>That gives men time to brood and breed foul thoughts</span><br />
+<span>And fouler deeds! Give me the open war whose blows</span><br />
+<span>Rain down as free as moonbeams from the sun!</span><br />
+<span>Who meets me there I know, at least, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> brave,</span><br />
+<span>And there&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Proudly</i>) Armenia, speak!</span><br />
+<span>You have our leave.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These Ghecs&mdash;my father is</span><br />
+<span>Their ancient, sworn ally!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page62" id="page62" title="62"></a><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His oath</span><br />
+<span>Binds him to give them aid.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The braver then</span><br />
+<span>The battle!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> I am my father&#8217;s son!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You mean</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> meet upon the field!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I can not take</span><br />
+<span>The field against you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No? Why not?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You know!</span><br />
+<span>Because I love you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir, I am Assyria!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Nay, but Menones&#8217; daughter! She whose heart</span><br />
+<span>I touched&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You touched?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ere taint of pride or power</span><br />
+<span>Or mad ambition had laid a canker there!</span><br />
+<span>When she was maiden still, and knew no thought</span><br />
+<span>She might not whisper in her father&#8217;s ear!</span><br />
+<span>Gentle as Spring when hushing the young dove,</span><br />
+<span>But strong from virgin battle, with the flush</span><br />
+<span>Of valorous purpose pure as goddess&#8217; dream</span><br />
+<span>Starting the noble war-blood in her cheek!</span><br />
+<span>&#8217;Tis she I speak to now&mdash;she that I love&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Not the proud queen grown bold in blood and triumph!</span><br />
+<span>Love me, Semiramis! You shall have peace!</span><br />
+<span>Not this sick peace that turns your heart to hate,</span><br />
+<span>But peace that charms the beauty back to life</span><br />
+<span>And new dreams to the soul! O, no more war!</span><br />
+<span>Then lilies springing in thy steps shall say</span><br />
+<span>What fairer grace went by! These fingers shall</span><br />
+<span>Forget the sword whose music is men&#8217;s groans,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page63" id="page63" title="63"></a>And on sweet strings draw out the heart of love</span><br />
+<span>To give the world the key of melody!</span><br />
+<span>Ah, you shall war no more&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir, you forget!</span><br />
+<span>These Ghecs&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Will not revolt if I become</span><br />
+<span>Assyria&#8217;s head! They trust me as their&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You!</span><br />
+<span>Assyria&#8217;s head! You! you! O, now I see!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not yet blind, although my heart was fast</span><br />
+<span>Upstealing to my eyes to make me so!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> O clear thy sight a second time, my queen,</span><br />
+<span>And read me true!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And you had almost moved me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Melt, stony eyes&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The <abbr>magic &#8217;s</abbr> left the earth</span><br />
+<span>That had the power to soften them!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not so&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> keep me still the general&#8217;s humble daughter</span><br />
+<span>While you would wear the glory I have won!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Nay, by Mylitta&#8217;s fire!&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;d</abbr> war no more.</span><br />
+<span>For who has all may well hang by the sword!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> By Heaven, I&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, you are man as <em>he</em> was!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks toward the garden shuddering</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> trust no more! <abbr>Who &#8217;s</abbr> worthy trust will give it!</span><br />
+<span>So saidst thou once! But thou couldst doubt&mdash;so dark</span><br />
+<span>A doubt my soul&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, that&#8217;s not my offense!</span><br />
+<span>You are a woman, and you must forgive!</span><br />
+<span>But you are queen, too, and the queen in you</span><br />
+<span>Guards her ambition from my honest love</span><br />
+<span>Lest it divide her glory!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page64" id="page64" title="64"></a><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;True, she guards it!</span><br />
+<span>Out of Assyrian stone <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> make a heart</span><br />
+<span>And wear it in my bosom!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Do not say it!</span><br />
+<span>I did not mean the words! They are not so!</span><br />
+<span>Thou dost not know thyself! Hard are the lips</span><br />
+<span>That never know a kiss, and thine were made</span><br />
+<span>With softness of the rose! Though all the streams</span><br />
+<span>Of power on earth poured to thy sovereign sea,</span><br />
+<span>Still wouldst thou want, and empty be the heart</span><br />
+<span>One drop of love would fill!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You speak</span><br />
+<span>As to a woman!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, for so thou art!</span><br />
+<span>Be now thyself! Thy peace alone I plead!</span><br />
+<span>I can bear all but thy unhappiness!</span><br />
+<span>For love&mdash;true love&mdash;forgets itself and makes</span><br />
+<span>But one prayer unto Heaven&mdash;prayer for the good</span><br />
+<span>Of the beloved!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thou wouldst not share my throne?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Thy throne?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, so I said.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I care not for it,</span><br />
+<span>But since &#8217;tis thine, I could not be a man</span><br />
+<span>Worthy thyself and take a place beneath thee.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> be thy husband, and I know <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> not</span><br />
+<span>A woman to look down and love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O theft</span><br />
+<span>In argument! To make my monarch soul</span><br />
+<span>Speak from thy mouth against me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not against thee!</span><br />
+<span>To beg thee yield to love is but to plead</span><br />
+<span>Thy greater cause! Ah, days will come to thee</span><br />
+<span>When all the maiden in thy heart will rise</span><br />
+<span>And drown the queen&#8217;s! Thou canst not call me back!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page65" id="page65" title="65"></a>To-morrow is the battle! O, I lied</span><br />
+<span>To say thou wert ambitious and ungentle&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> No, thou didst not! &#8217;Tis true! I am&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, no!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> prove it is not so! See here&mdash;the dove&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>That nestles at your breast! Why is it here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Because I was a woman once&mdash;and dreamed</span><br />
+<span>On foolish, woman things! (<i>Frees bird from her bosom</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fly! fly!</span><br />
+<span>And as I pluck thee out I pluck away</span><br />
+<span>All thought of mortal love, and stand alone</span><br />
+<span>Beneath Assyria&#8217;s crown!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Gazes at her in despair</i>) Then <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be gone!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> pleaded well, but my domains are broad,</span><br />
+<span>And might give tongue to wilder eloquence</span><br />
+<span>Without love&#8217;s sweet excuse!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No more! I go!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Moves off, left. Near exit, turns</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>I lead my father&#8217;s troops!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I lead my own!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Khosrove. She looks after him without moving
+until he passes out of sight. The moonlight is less
+bright. Her dove flies over her head. She starts and
+looks after it. The bird alights. She watches it eagerly
+and waits. It circles about her, then darts to her bosom.
+With an exultant moan she clasps it to her breast</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<!-- Original used capital C --><em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page66" id="page66" title="66"></a><a name="play1act4" id="play1act4"></a>ACT IV.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play1act4scene1" id="play1act4scene1"></a>Scene: Within Husak&#8217;s tent. Husak, Khosrove,
+Armenian lords and soldiers.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Husak.</strong> Bring in the widow!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt officers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i14">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, my son, <abbr>thou &#8217;lt</abbr> see</span><br />
+<span>Assyria at thy feet. Ay, she who scorned</span><br />
+<span>To match her crown with thine, shall low as earth</span><br />
+<span>Cry up for favor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir, I would not see it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> Still in that humor? Well, I promise thee</span><br />
+<span>She shall have mercy.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mercy, father?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> What wilt thou grant?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ask of thy heart,</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i9">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Khosrove is about to speak</i>) Peace, boy!</span><br />
+<span>For once <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> be a father, not a soldier! Wait!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Khosrove kneels and kisses his father&#8217;s hand as
+Semiramis enters between guards. She is robed and
+crowned, her arms fettered with golden chains, and
+holds herself proudly, not looking at Husak. She turns
+to Khosrove, who watches her eagerly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> We meet again. Wert thou upon the field?</span><br />
+<span>I saw thee not. Perchance thy father thought</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T were</abbr> wise to find his health and lead his troops</span><br />
+<span>Lest <em>Love</em> should blunt thy sword!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By Bel, his sword</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page67" id="page67" title="67"></a>Was sharp enough to find the heart of Sumbat,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Your general!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sumbat slain! (<i>Turns to Khosrove</i>) and slain by you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> I had my choice&mdash;to slay him or to die.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>With bitter scorn</i>) And did the love that makes one prayer to Heaven</span><br />
+<span>Rule in that choice?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These taunts, Semiramis&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Nay, father, she has cause to use me so.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Oh, you confess you played with me! Then, heart,</span><br />
+<span>In with thy scorn for this outbraves thy own!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Turns away, folding her chained hands on her
+breast, and stands as if she would speak no more</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> You make no suit for mercy?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Turning to him</i>) What! from thee?</span><br />
+<span>Who kill your captives ere your tent is struck,</span><br />
+<span>Nor spare a guard to drive them from the field?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> I grant what I would ask&mdash;death before serfdom!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> keep them for your dogs and slaves!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And when</span><br />
+<span>Am I to die? Why breach thy custom now?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> We like your spirit, but push not so far,</span><br />
+<span>Or we shall break the bounds <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> set ourselves.</span><br />
+<span>Have you not found us gracious to your rank?</span><br />
+<span>You look not like a prisoner!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No thanks</span><br />
+<span>For that! This robe and crown, these chains of gold</span><br />
+<span>Are compliments that Husak pays himself,</span><br />
+<span>Proclaiming him a royal victory,</span><br />
+<span>Though not a royal victor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What! Dar&#8217;st fling</span><br />
+<span>Into my face that the Armenian kings</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page68" id="page68" title="68"></a>Rule unanointed? Dost think that I would sue</span><br />
+<span>To Nineveh or Babylon for leave</span><br />
+<span>To take my kingly emblems from their hands?</span><br />
+<span>But thou&mdash;thou shalt owe thine to me! I wear</span><br />
+<span>No proud insignia of the gods, and yet</span><br />
+<span>My hands shall strip and clothe thee as I will!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Tears off her robe and crown</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> Father!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By sun and moon&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, sir&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Her pride</span><br />
+<span>Insults my mercy, but <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> keep my word.</span><br />
+<span>Take these. (<i>Gives him the robe and crown</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i6">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, woman, learn that Husak&mdash;ay,</span><br />
+<span>Husak, the Fierce, can pity fallen glory!</span><br />
+<span>Stand forth, my son! Look, captive, on this prince!</span><br />
+<span>A man not made to sue to less than gods!</span><br />
+<span>Make him thy husband-king, and from his hands</span><br />
+<span>Receive thy purple and remount thy throne!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All are astonished. Khosrove shrinks back in
+shame, which Semiramis misunderstands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Methinks this lover makes no ardent suit,</span><br />
+<span>King Husak! Why, the sun has not twice set</span><br />
+<span>Since he did swear me dearer than my crown,</span><br />
+<span>And now the <abbr>crown &#8217;s</abbr> too much if my poor self</span><br />
+<span>Must burden it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Khosrove kneels before her, holding up the crown</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rise, sir! You give, not sue!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Semiramis looks down on Khosrove, then turns to
+Husak</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thank, thanks,</span><br />
+<span>Old man, for making me once more myself!</span><br />
+<span>For by the blood that storms through all my veins</span><br />
+<span>I know <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> still a queen! Now all the pride</span><br />
+<span>That lives in my lost crown, and all the scorn</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page69" id="page69" title="69"></a>Should meet thy fawning suit, be in my words,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>I do refuse your son! Assyria</span><br />
+<span>Shall owe her throne to none!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Khosrove springs up, trampling the robe</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Now thou wilt rise!</span><br />
+<span>A prince who might have gone with gods to wive</span><br />
+<span>Nor bated them in choice! This to my face!</span><br />
+<span>I, Husak, fawn on woman! Out with her!</span><br />
+<span>Drag her to death! To instant death! Out! out!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards approach Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> To <em>instant</em> death?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> (<i>Looks searchingly at him.</i>) Ha! ha! Not yet! <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> thine!</span><br />
+<span>Choose thy revenge! Have now thy will!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>Thou &#8217;lt</abbr> grant it?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> Ay, ay, whate&#8217;er thou wouldst!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She is thy captive.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> I make her thine! My conqueror&#8217;s right I yield</span><br />
+<span>To thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dost swear it?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Doubt me not! I swear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> By Belus&#8217; star?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By Belus&#8217; star, whose beams</span><br />
+<span>Are death to breakers of an oath! We ask</span><br />
+<span>This crown&mdash;no more. (<i>Takes crown from Khosrove&#8217;s hand</i>) You pause. Stand not, my son.</span><br />
+<span>Thy vengeance waits. Do what thou wilt with her,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> question not.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Khosrove strikes off the chains of Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go free to Nineveh.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Husak stands in amazed silence, then understands
+and burns with speechless anger. At last he speaks
+slowly with intense wrath</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> All madmen in my kingdom die! Bind him!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page70" id="page70" title="70"></a>(<i>Guards bind Khosrove</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Die? No! O, sir, you would not slay your son?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> This loathsome thing is not my flesh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thy son!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> We have no son. Armenia has no heir.</span><br />
+<span>Bear him away!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> (<i>Holding out her hands</i>) My chains! Dost think <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> owe</span><br />
+<span>My life to him? Thou know&#8217;st not yet my pride!</span><br />
+<span>Bind me and set him free!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Thunderingly</i>) No! Husak breaks</span><br />
+<span>No oath! We&#8217;re not a god as Nineveh,</span><br />
+<span>And bold to mock at Heaven!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Semiramis</i>) I knew the price,</span><br />
+<span>And chose to pay it. &#8217;Tis my wish. Farewell!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards bear him out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> (<i>To Semiramis</i>) Go free to Nineveh!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No! O, kill me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Hus.</strong> Nay, go! But go alone&mdash;on foot&mdash;and through</span><br />
+<span>A hostile country!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That subject who</span><br />
+<span>Shall give thee food or drink dies in the act!</span><br />
+<span>Proclaim it, all!... Come, friends, <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> not yet held</span><br />
+<span>The feast of victory. The slighted gods</span><br />
+<span>Will snatch away their favor if we long</span><br />
+<span>Delay our revels. Though <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> miss one face,</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Suppresses a groan</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> know this much&mdash;<abbr>there &#8217;ll</abbr> be no traitor there!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All leave the tent but Semiramis</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> Alone ... on foot ... and through a hostile country!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> overtake thee, Khosrove, ere <abbr>thou &#8217;st</abbr> reached</span><br />
+<span>Thy throne among the stars! Thou goest from love,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page71" id="page71" title="71"></a>And wilt look back and weep from every cloud;</span><br />
+<span>I on thy track shall pause not till our wings</span><br />
+<span>Stir the same air and lock in kisses flying!</span><br />
+<span>... So pay my scorn? How then hadst loved if heart</span><br />
+<span>Had brought to heart its swelling measure? Then</span><br />
+<span>Our rosy hours had been the pick of time,</span><br />
+<span>And hung a flower &#8217;mong withered centuries</span><br />
+<span>When every age had brought its reckoning in!</span><br />
+<span>O, why will we, some cubits high, pluck at</span><br />
+<span>The sun and moon, when we have that within</span><br />
+<span>Makes us the soul and centre of Heaven itself?</span><br />
+<span>Ambition, thou hast played away my crown</span><br />
+<span>And life. That I forgive thee, but not this&mdash;</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Thou &#8217;st</abbr> robbed me of the memory of his kiss.</span><br />
+<span>... Go, world! The conqueror&#8217;s trump that closed my ears</span><br />
+<span>Unto the angel in a lover&#8217;s voice</span><br />
+<span>Dies to a moan that fills but one lone heart.</span><br />
+<span>And soon &#8217;tis silent. Ah, though woman build</span><br />
+<span>Her house of glory to the kissing skies,</span><br />
+<span>And the proud sun her golden rafters lay,</span><br />
+<span>And on her turrets pause discoursing gods,</span><br />
+<span>Let her not dare forget the stanchion truth&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Immortal writ in every mortal face&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>&ldquo;Thou art the wife and mother of the world!&rdquo;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sees Khosrove&#8217;s cloak upon the floor, and kneels by
+it, taking it in her hands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>My Khosrove!... Methought a god struck off my chains</span><br />
+<span>So strong and fair he seemed, yet strove to hide</span><br />
+<span>The beauty of his act, as might a star</span><br />
+<span>Shrink in its own sweet light!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Buries her face in the folds of the cloak</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, noble prince,</span><br />
+<span>I might have kissed thy lips and not thy garment!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page72" id="page72" title="72"></a>(<i>Rises and wraps the cloak about her. Spurns with
+her foot her own robe which has been left trampled</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Thou purple rag, lie there! Love&#8217;s vesture shall</span><br />
+<span>Enfold me as I go!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i3">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Starts out</i>) Alone ... on foot ...</span><br />
+<span>But <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> not far to journey. Foes are kind....</span><br />
+<span>The first one met ... well, I will thank him!... Cries?</span><br />
+<span>It is the feast. A man may feast who had&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>But has no son!... (<i>Startled</i>) &#8217;Tis not the feast!... I know</span><br />
+<span>That noise confused&mdash;hoarse shouts&mdash;shrieks&mdash;pawing steeds&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And rumbling chariots! Those are the tones</span><br />
+<span>Of battle! O, the bloody work! &#8217;Tis war!</span><br />
+<span>Did it delight me once?... Assyrian cries!</span><br />
+<span>My troops! my troops! <abbr>They &#8217;ve</abbr> rallied! How they cheer!</span><br />
+<span>What brave heart leads them on?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Cries come nearer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i16">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Poor creatures, they</span><br />
+<span>Would save me knowing not I died with Khosrove.</span><br />
+<span>I will not live&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The rear of the tent is torn away by an onslaught.
+Assyrian troops enter, led by Artavan</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Semiramis!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My brother!</span><br />
+<span>You live!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Praise Heaven there is one</span><br />
+<span>Will comfort my sad kingdom!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, <abbr>all &#8217;s</abbr> well!</span><br />
+<span>The death of Ninus freed me from my prison;</span><br />
+<span>I gathered troops and pushed hard after you,</span><br />
+<span>To hear you had been taken; then I planned</span><br />
+<span>This rescue. Thank great Belus, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> in time!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page73" id="page73" title="73"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> In time? Nay, <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> too late!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Too late? When thou</span><br />
+<span>Dost live?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I live? No! <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> deceived!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O Heaven!</span><br />
+<span>... <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> dazed! Her troubles have bewildered her.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>All &#8217;s</abbr> well, my sister! Husak has been taken.</span><br />
+<span>Thy crown itself is in our hands ... The crown!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A soldier hands it to him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>You see &#8217;tis safe. (<i>She takes it idly</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A crown. For such a thing</span><br />
+<span>Wouldst give thy Sola?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She is dear to me,</span><br />
+<span>But ay, by Heaven, I would!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You would? I know</span><br />
+<span>A greater thing than this.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What, sister?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Letting the crown fall</i>) Love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> O, she is crazed! This is some evil work!</span><br />
+<span>Bring in the captive Husak! He shall speak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> O, brother, once I thought thy love was truest</span><br />
+<span>That ever husband gave to wife, but now</span><br />
+<span>It showeth dark against my lover&#8217;s truth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> Semiramis ... sweet sister ... What dost mean?</span><br />
+<span>... <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> know the cause of this! Call in the prince</span><br />
+<span>With Husak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prince?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Art.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay ... Khosrove, whom we found</span><br />
+<span>In chains&mdash;I know not why&mdash;and I unbound him,</span><br />
+<span>Recalling how he saved my life,&mdash;but now</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> know what thou hast suffered at his hands!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sem.</strong> You found him bound? I can not hear&mdash;or see!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> She swoons&mdash;she dies&mdash;O, true, we are too late!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page74" id="page74" title="74"></a><strong>Sem.</strong> No, brother, <abbr>thou &#8217;rt</abbr> in time! I live! I live!</span><br />
+<span>I am Semiramis! Give me my crown!</span><br />
+<span>Now this small circlet seems to me the world,</span><br />
+<span>And it is mine&mdash;to wear&mdash;or give away!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Is &#8217;t</abbr> not, good friends?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Voices.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, &#8217;tis!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter soldiers with Husak and Khosrove, Husak in
+fetters</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;King Husak, hear!</span><br />
+<span>Assyria and Armenia should be friends,</span><br />
+<span>Joining true hands to bring a happy peace</span><br />
+<span>O&#8217;er all the East. And in that dearest hope</span><br />
+<span>I free thee. (<i>Unbinds him</i>) But thy son, the prince, must be</span><br />
+<span>Again my prisoner.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Hus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, queen, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> spent</span><br />
+<span>One childless hour, and rather would I die</span><br />
+<span>Than know another. Take my life for his.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Art.</strong> Dost thou forget, Semiramis, that once</span><br />
+<span>He saved thy brother?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I remember all,</span><br />
+<span>But will not change his doom. He must be bound,</span><br />
+<span>Nor from my fetters may he go alive.</span><br />
+<span>These are his chains&mdash;(<i>Putting her arms about his neck</i>) his prison deathless love,</span><br />
+<span>And here I pray that he will wear this crown,</span><br />
+<span>And hold with me the great Assyrian throne!</span><br />
+<span>... (<i>calls</i>) My chariot!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Khos.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My queen! my queen!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wilt thou</span><br />
+<span>Consent?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Khos.</strong> (<i>Kisses her lips</i>) I answer here.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The royal chariot appears, rear. They step in</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Sem.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Giving the reins to Khosrove</i>) To Nineveh!</span></p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h2><a class="page" name="page75" id="page75" title="75"></a>CARLOTTA</h2>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page76" id="page76" title="76"></a></p>
+
+<table summary="">
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a class="page" name="page77" id="page77" title="77"></a><a href="#play2act1">ACT I.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act1scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Miramar.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act1scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>In the mountains of Mexico.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play2act2">ACT II.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act2scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Chapultapec.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play2act3">ACT III.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act3scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Before the Imperial Theatre.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act3scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>Within the theatre.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play2act4">ACT IV.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act4scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Queretaro.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play2act5">ACT V.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act5scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>The Tuileries.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play2act5scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>Miramar.</td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page78" id="page78" title="78"></a>CHARACTERS</h3>
+
+<p><span><em class="sc">Maximilian</em>, Emperor of Mexico</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Carlotta</em>, Empress of Mexico</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Louis Napoleon</em>, Emperor of France</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Eugenie</em>, Empress of France</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Benito Juarez</em>, President of Mexico</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Ignacio</em>, nephew to Juarez</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Rafael Mendores</em>, friend of Ignacio</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Aseffa</em>, wife of Rafael</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Trevino</em>, <em class="sc">Escobedo</em>, <em class="sc">Garza</em>, officers in the Liberal Army</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Miramon</em>, leader of the Imperial party</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Marshal Bazaine</em>, head of the French Army in Mexico</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Marquez</em>, <em class="sc">Mejia</em>, <em class="sc">Mendez</em>, <em class="sc">Dupin</em>, <em class="sc">Lopez</em>, of the Imperial army</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Abbot</em> of Lacroma</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Archbishop Labastida</em>, head of the Mexican church</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Prince Salm-Salm</em>, friend and officer of Maximilian</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Prince Zichy</em>,</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Ruiz</em>, <em class="sc">Berzabal</em>, <em class="sc">Estrada</em>, Mexican nobles</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Lady Maria</em>, sister to Count Charles</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Princess Salm-Salm</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Princess Zichy</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Princess Metternich</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Senor Hurbet</em>, <em class="sc">General Castlenau</em>, <em class="sc">Marquis de Gallifet</em>, in the service of Louis Napoleon</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Austrian</em>, <em class="sc">Belgian</em>, <em class="sc">Prussian</em>, and other foreign ministers at the court of Napoleon III.</span><br />
+<span>Imperial soldiers, Liberal soldiers, guards, rabble, ladies of honor, officers of the court, etc., etc.</span></p>
+
+<p class="play"><a class="page" name="page79" id="page79" title="79"></a>CARLOTTA</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play2act1" id="play2act1"></a>ACT I.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act1scene1" id="play2act1scene1"></a>Scene I: Reception hall, castle of Miramar, near
+Trieste. Enter Count Charles, book in hand.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Ah, books must be put by for swords, I wot,</span><br />
+<span>When this wild journey to the West begins.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> change enough! O shifting, shuffling life!</span><br />
+<span>Come, Shakespeare, magic mason, build me worlds</span><br />
+<span>That never shake however winds may blow,</span><br />
+<span>Founded on dream imperishable! (<i>Sits and reads. Enter Lady Maria</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charles!</span><br />
+<span>Not reading! Dost know what day it is?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, sister!</span><br />
+<span>A day to make a scholar tremble, and hug</span><br />
+<span>His books in fever of farewell.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Didst see</span><br />
+<span>The splendid carriages glittering up the drive?</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page80" id="page80" title="80"></a>And O, so many!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They have arrived?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Arrived!</span><br />
+<span>Why, all the Mexican deputies, arrayed</span><br />
+<span>Like their own sunsets,&mdash;the ambassadors</span><br />
+<span>From Austria, Belgium, France,&mdash;the princesses,</span><br />
+<span>And countesses, now in the guest-room wait</span><br />
+<span>The stroke of twelve to enter! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> nearly time,</span><br />
+<span>And you sit here! Put by your Englishman!</span><br />
+<span>Come, put him by, I say! <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> dead; we live.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> had his due and passed.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, his account</span><br />
+<span>Is writ forever current. His book of praise</span><br />
+<span>Time closes not, but waits some language new</span><br />
+<span>To enter it, and at his monument</span><br />
+<span>Fame yet stands carving.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> (<i>Taking book and closing it</i>) So! <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> time enough!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ve</abbr> other work. (<i>Gently</i>) Is not the princess sad?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> I pray her heavy tears, weighing like stones,</span><br />
+<span>Will hold her back from sea!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hush, Charles! She comes!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Carlotta, richly dressed</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Ah, cousins, trimming now your smiles to greet</span><br />
+<span>The deputies?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, calling up our tears</span><br />
+<span>To grace farewell to Miramar!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No tears!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> think but of an empire and a crown,</span><br />
+<span>Not Miramar!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Maximilian, dressed in the uniform of Vice-Admiral
+of the Austrian navy</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An empire and a crown?</span><br />
+<span>At last I am out-rivalled in your heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page81" id="page81" title="81"></a><strong>Car.</strong> Nay, nay, thou know&#8217;st, my lord, thou art my empire!</span><br />
+<span>Grant me so much as now I look upon</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> as rich as Jove with Saturn&#8217;s sceptre</span><br />
+<span>New-swinging o&#8217;er the world!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then you risk much</span><br />
+<span>For an unstable throne.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not risk!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The men</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Who &#8217;ve</abbr> governed Mexico, for the most part,</span><br />
+<span>Have paid their heads for it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, Charles!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> true.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Our safety is in the Emperor of France.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> the strong angel in this noble scheme!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Safety in him? Nay, madam, by my soul,</span><br />
+<span>The lightest smile that breaks upon his lips,</span><br />
+<span>As though a breeze but touched there, hides a plot</span><br />
+<span>May hang our hearts with lead!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How you misjudge him!</span><br />
+<span>In Paris when he pledged his faith to us</span><br />
+<span>His eyes more than his words assured his heart</span><br />
+<span>Unto our cause. I trust him, yea, I trust him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> There is a woman on the throne of France!</span><br />
+<span>She is the Eve to this slow-blooded Adam,</span><br />
+<span>Dutch-born Napoleon, and holdeth up</span><br />
+<span>The globe as <abbr>&#8217;t were</abbr> an apple for his hand.</span><br />
+<span>She builds mock images of dreams that died</span><br />
+<span>On Helena&#8217;s lone rock, and teaches him</span><br />
+<span>They are not ghosts of dream but dream indeed!</span><br />
+<span>Mexico, burning with gold and sunset&#8217;s fire,</span><br />
+<span>Pouring the crimson of internal strife,</span><br />
+<span>To her is but a jewel in crude bed</span><br />
+<span><abbr>She &#8217;d</abbr> have you pick and polish for her crown!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Had you but heard her sweet devoted voice</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page82" id="page82" title="82"></a>Pleading with us for sake of the true Church</span><br />
+<span>To finish now this great emprise begun,</span><br />
+<span>You would believe her holy.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If she is holy,</span><br />
+<span>And if Napoleon be true in this,</span><br />
+<span>Then is he God&#8217;s perfection of a man,</span><br />
+<span>And she earth&#8217;s sole and sainted paragon!</span><br />
+<span>But wait&mdash;O wait and see ere you risk life</span><br />
+<span>And honor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You&#8217;re wrong&mdash;so wrong&mdash;but this is strange.</span><br />
+<span>O why are we not happy? (<i>Turning to window and gazing out</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Following her</i>) Because, my cousin,</span><br />
+<span>This is not Miramar as we have known it.</span><br />
+<span>The scholar&#8217;s home, the soldier&#8217;s fair retreat,</span><br />
+<span>The noble heart&#8217;s sweet fane and altar spot,</span><br />
+<span>But Miramar with great ambition&#8217;s storm</span><br />
+<span>Rolling its thunders &#8217;gainst her peaceful walls!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> But to live idly is never to be born.</span><br />
+<span>Shall we sit here at ease when God has found</span><br />
+<span>The work for us? He with his pontiff finger</span><br />
+<span>Points to the sea&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Turning</i>) Sweet Miramar!</span><br />
+<span>If God points to the sea, why gave he this?</span><br />
+<span>This heaven-spot, this nesting place of love,</span><br />
+<span>Hung like a garland &#8217;tween the sea and rocks!</span><br />
+<span>Ah, dear my lord, some curse will follow us</span><br />
+<span>Who can desert this peace-embalm&eacute;d place</span><br />
+<span>To seek a glory fairer but in name!</span><br />
+<span>I dare not do it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Taking her hands</i>) <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> you shall say, my wife.</span><br />
+<span>If to stay <abbr>here &#8217;s</abbr> your wish, that wish is mine,</span><br />
+<span>Maybe <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> dreamed too much of deeds of good,</span><br />
+<span>And visionary feats in that far land;</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page83" id="page83" title="83"></a>Then let it be your yea or nay, my love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> O leave it not to me, for in a yea</span><br />
+<span>My vanity will speak, and in a nay</span><br />
+<span>My fear!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A slander on these lips? A kiss</span><br />
+<span>Were better! (<i>Kisses her. Enter Marquis Corio</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Cor.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The noble guests approach. <abbr>Will &#8217;t</abbr> please</span><br />
+<span>Your Highnesses assume your places?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yea,</span><br />
+<span>Or nay, Carlotta?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, they come! they come!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> (<i>Hastily and earnestly</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Nay, if you love your lord! That is a land</span><br />
+<span>Of murder, treason, carnage and revolt!</span><br />
+<span>The very air cries out &lsquo;go not! go not!&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>E&#8217;en yon cloud-turbanned peak, that never moves</span><br />
+<span>Whate&#8217;er the circling stars propound to vex</span><br />
+<span>His silent wisdom, warns with forbidding nod!</span><br />
+<span>O noblest cousin&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>In agitation</i>) An empire! Miramar!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Maximilian takes place centre. A table in front of
+him covered with maps and papers. Carlotta by him,
+Count Charles and Lady Maria in their rear. Enter
+Archduke of Austria, and nobles, who take position at
+some distance from Maximilian on his right. Enter
+Belgian Minister, Abbot of Lacroma, Princess of Metternich,
+Princess Zichy, Countess Kollonitz, and others.
+They stand at distance to left of Maximilian. Enter the
+Imperial delegate, Senor Hurbet, and General Frassart,
+Napoleon&#8217;s Adjutant of the Field. The former takes
+place immediately at Maximilian&#8217;s right, the latter at
+left of Carlotta. Marquis Corio at door. Enter the
+Mexican deputies, Estrada, Berzabal, Negrete, Ruiz, and
+a dozen others. Estrada, as president of the deputation,
+makes low salute</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page84" id="page84" title="84"></a><strong>Max.</strong> Welcome, my lords, to Miramar!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hail, Prince,</span><br />
+<span>And fairest princess! The grace and hope of morning</span><br />
+<span>Be ever on your lives!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Must noble senors,</span><br />
+<span>We give you thanks and greeting.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your presence here,</span><br />
+<span>My lords, would move our hearts although you brought</span><br />
+<span>No crown to guerdon welcome.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, gracious prince,</span><br />
+<span>Our tongues but feebly bear the mighty love</span><br />
+<span>The land of Montezuma bade us lay</span><br />
+<span>Low at your feet. Your starry virtues draw</span><br />
+<span>Her prayers and hopes and holiest desires</span><br />
+<span>Across the sea in humblest supplication.</span><br />
+<span>We make no weary tale of our misfortunes;</span><br />
+<span>They are so great the world is heavy with them,</span><br />
+<span>And Mexico means but calamity</span><br />
+<span>To every ear.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My dear and honored lords,</span><br />
+<span>The heart is granite and the veins are ice</span><br />
+<span>That will not stir at your deep miseries.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Est.</strong> Ah, sir, this crown is heavy, but you will bear</span><br />
+<span>The golden weight as <abbr>&#8217;t were</abbr> the aureole</span><br />
+<span>That seals the saint to God!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But not without</span><br />
+<span>Consent of every subject should I wear it.</span><br />
+<span>Does Mexico send all her hearts with you?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ruiz.</strong> (<i>Spreading paper on table</i>) Read here the proclamation now in force</span><br />
+<span>In all our provinces.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And this has been</span><br />
+<span>By each assembly ratified?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Berzabal.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, prince!</span><br />
+<span>It is a nation, not these dozen men,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page85" id="page85" title="85"></a>That with a million voices prays to you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> From childhood up <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> sought to obey my God,</span><br />
+<span>But never dreamed that he would bless my life</span><br />
+<span>With such high sanction as I read herein. (<i>Lifting paper</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Forgive a tear, my lords.... But we must ask</span><br />
+<span>That crown&eacute;d Europe give a sacred oath</span><br />
+<span>To guarantee our empire&#8217;s permanence.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Archduke.</strong> Brother, I bring the word of Austria,</span><br />
+<span>Whose prayers, whose arms, whose subjects&#8217; blood are yours,</span><br />
+<span>While she has blood or arms to give!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Belgian Minister.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For Belgium</span><br />
+<span>I speak&mdash;the princess&#8217; true and royal father,</span><br />
+<span>Whose little kingdom measures not his heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Senor Hurbet.</strong> And I, my lord, have here the sign&eacute;d oath</span><br />
+<span>Of Mightiest France, whose fifty-thousand men</span><br />
+<span>Now guard the cradle of the new born peace</span><br />
+<span>In Mexico! Read here what he will do.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Reads</i>) Enough.... My lords, should I accept this crown,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> be with holiest expectation</span><br />
+<span>To reign in love and peace, but your past struggles</span><br />
+<span>Point to a term of danger and much risk</span><br />
+<span>Ere our star shines above all factious spite.</span><br />
+<span>Stood I alone I should not hesitate,</span><br />
+<span>But here is one more dear than my own life,</span><br />
+<span>Whom I must cherish more than my own life,</span><br />
+<span>Within whose heart I must find out my answer;</span><br />
+<span>And God be thanked her wisdom beams so true</span><br />
+<span>Above the hesitations of my mind</span><br />
+<span>That I can love her yea or nay as <abbr>&#8217;t were</abbr></span><br />
+<span>By Heaven spoke!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then to your mercy, princess,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page86" id="page86" title="86"></a>We now commit our hope.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most worthy lords,</span><br />
+<span>I am so proud that I would wear a crown,</span><br />
+<span>So pitying I would weep my heart away</span><br />
+<span>For your sad country, and so vain I think</span><br />
+<span>The lord that married me might lead you from</span><br />
+<span>Rebellion&#8217;s night to civil-kissing hours;</span><br />
+<span>But yet a woman bonded unto love,</span><br />
+<span>Not my own mistress. The life bound up with mine</span><br />
+<span>Is dearer than the peace of any state,</span><br />
+<span>And looking deep into your country&#8217;s heart</span><br />
+<span>I read some cruel marks of history</span><br />
+<span>That teach me fear for any precious thing</span><br />
+<span>Consigned unto its love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If ever souls</span><br />
+<span>Lay bare to human eyes, read now in ours</span><br />
+<span>The loyalty which you will find in every subject!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ruiz.</strong> Be merciful! Earth aches through her <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">rock-ribs</ins></span><br />
+<span>With our old woes, and it is you may heal them!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ber.</strong> Pity will teach thee soon to love our land!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> My lords, already I love Mexico,</span><br />
+<span>And would forego the peace of Miramar,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>All happy days that from the future lean</span><br />
+<span>To meet my smiles, as trifles whose light thought</span><br />
+<span>Shames this great hour; but when in dream I see</span><br />
+<span>My lord beset by foes in foreign land,</span><br />
+<span>The help he needs beyond a three-months&#8217; sea,</span><br />
+<span>My princess pride flags to a peasant fear</span><br />
+<span>For one dear life!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wrong not yourself, your lord,</span><br />
+<span>And Mexico, O gentlest lady&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Est.</strong> Say yea, and our expectant land will feel</span><br />
+<span>The thrill of that affirmative across</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page87" id="page87" title="87"></a>The glad Atlantic! Yea&mdash;and France, whose name</span><br />
+<span>Is in our hearts as God&#8217;s, will bless thy tongue!</span><br />
+<span>Say yea, and noble England, watchful Spain,</span><br />
+<span>Who with great France began the holy work</span><br />
+<span>Of blessed liberation will applaud</span><br />
+<span>With happy echoes to the guardian skies!</span><br />
+<span>Say yea, and the white spirit of the Church</span><br />
+<span>Will take &#8217;neath her soft wings our blood-drenched land,</span><br />
+<span>That waits but for that word to hail thy lord</span><br />
+<span>Regenerator, king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lords, my lords,</span><br />
+<span>We are but human! Mayhap we will not keep</span><br />
+<span>The love that we have won!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Senor Hur.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fear not, O princess!</span><br />
+<span>Behind your throne, with unretreating sword,</span><br />
+<span>Will stand the first great power of all the world!</span><br />
+<span>Thus speak I for the emperor of France!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess Metternich.<!-- . missing in original --></strong> (<i>Advancing</i>) I for the empress! Eugenie bade me speak</span><br />
+<span>Her heart out here, and hail thee sister empress!</span><br />
+<span>To ask when your young empire blooms above</span><br />
+<span>The lily of old France, and lures the East</span><br />
+<span>To pour her golden heart into your port,</span><br />
+<span>And ocean blossoms with your argosies,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> still remember that she loved you when</span><br />
+<span>You were but princess and no farther ruled</span><br />
+<span>Then stretch the gardens of small Miramar!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> O generous Eugenie! But the fear&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Abbot of Lacroma.</strong> To speak of fear in this is to doubt God!</span><br />
+<span>He does not bless in vain a noble prince</span><br />
+<span>With such rare qualities as crown the mind</span><br />
+<span>Of Maximilian! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> for some purpose rare</span><br />
+<span>He rounds such excellence with highest birth</span><br />
+<span>And puts a sword of power in his hand!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page88" id="page88" title="88"></a>From over seas unto your very feet</span><br />
+<span>A nation comes to choose from all the world</span><br />
+<span>One made by Heaven to be its sovereign lord,</span><br />
+<span>Cool hearts of passion in his amity,</span><br />
+<span>Make bitter eyes forget their ancient hate,</span><br />
+<span>And proudest knees bow with old enemies</span><br />
+<span>In worship of his star beneficent!</span><br />
+<span>There pale and crush&eacute;d Peace</span><br />
+<span>Shall take the color of the living rose,</span><br />
+<span>Hearing the voice of his protecting love</span><br />
+<span>That comes to lift her beauty from the dust</span><br />
+<span>And on that ground volcanic nobly build</span><br />
+<span>Her temple indestructible!</span><br />
+<span>There shall his kingly mind find outward means</span><br />
+<span>To write sublimity upon the world,</span><br />
+<span>And like old Egypt speak in pyramids</span><br />
+<span>To nations unbegot in dream of Time!</span><br />
+<span>And can you shock the hour with hesitation?</span><br />
+<span>Ask all the waiting world,&mdash;ay, even God,</span><br />
+<span>To pause and count the heart-beats of a woman?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Devoutly, with uplifted hands and eyes</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Forgive me, Heaven, that I doubted thee!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes Maximilian&#8217;s hands, turns with great dignity
+to the deputies, and speaks solemnly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Senors, <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> wear the crown of Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. The abbot of Lacroma advances; Carlotta
+and Maximilian drop to their knees as he extends his
+arms above them in blessing</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act1scene2" id="play2act1scene2"></a>Scene II: A camp in the mountains of Mexico.
+Night. Aseffa preparing food by a fire. She goes aside,
+listens, and returns.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> O Mexico, thou traitress unto love,</span><br />
+<span>Wilt trample every heart that&#8217;s true to thee?</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page89" id="page89" title="89"></a>(<i>Listens. Enter Miguel and Lerdo, very ragged and
+gaunt</i>) Miguel! Lerdo! Rafael not come? Where did
+you leave him?</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lerdo.</strong> Nowhere, Senora.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> Don&#8217;t flutter, little bird. We mean that he left
+us. He set off as fresh as the morning to make the circuit
+of another mountain while we could barely creep up to
+camp.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> You are hungry! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> give you Rafael&#8217;s
+supper!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ler.</strong> Hungry? No! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> had two biscuits since
+yesterday, and sixty miles <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> far to go on that.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> And as much good air and water as a soldier
+need want!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Here! Take it. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> good. Indeed it is!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> Smoking meat! Ha! Who brought it? Has
+the Holy Virgin been in camp?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> No, but <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> been down to the valley.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ler.</strong> You?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Yes,&mdash;and <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> a little gold left, too!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Showing purse</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> You paid five pesos for that dish!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> A good guesser would double the price.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> And for Rafael&#8217;s supper! No, I can go two
+more days yet. (<i>Puts food aside</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> But you shall not. Come, eat! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> feed you
+then, and you don&#8217;t want Juarez&#8217; soldiers to be turned
+into babies, do you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> yield! In fact, <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> an orator within
+that speaks with a most convincing pinch. (<i>They eat</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Watching</i>) Poor fellows! <abbr>They &#8217;ll</abbr> not leave
+him a mouthful!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ler.</strong> Where is the general?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Pointing up the hill</i>) Asleep. Have you news?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page90" id="page90" title="90"></a><strong>Ler.</strong> None to bring good dreams. Let him sleep.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> Lord, a meal a day like this and I could drive
+the whole French army into the sea! (<i>Rising</i>) Now if
+these rags could be turned back to their first fortunes,
+<abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> be Don Miguel de Tejada again! You <abbr>would n&#8217;t</abbr> think
+that these tags and tatters had waltzed with the president&#8217;s
+niece at the capital, would you now?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> You must let me mend your clothes as I do
+Rafael&#8217;s.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mig.</strong> Faith, Senora, you would have to begin too
+many months back. No, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> hang out my banners as a
+knight of liberty should, and be Don Miguel de Tejada
+still. Asleep, my Lerdo? A good example, too. (<i>Lies
+down</i>) Good-night, Senora the Blessed!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Good-night, Don Miguel de Tejada! (<i>The
+soldiers sleep. She waits and listens. Runs aside and
+looks down the valley</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Rafael! (<i>Steps approach. Enter Rafael</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> (<i>Embracing her</i>) <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> Heaven for the weary!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> So tired? And I have nothing for you!
+(<i>Looks toward soldiers</i>) They were so hungry.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> They&#8217;re welcome to it. (<i>Kissing her</i>) Here is
+my banquet,&mdash;my feast of beauty and my wine of love!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Staggers to a rock and sits feebly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Oh! <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> been so far!&mdash;too far!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> We rode all day, but made no terms for food.
+The people are afraid. Whoever gives us bread forfeits
+his life and home.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> I bought some meat of a poor woman to-day.
+She needed the money.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> And if the Imperials find her out <abbr>they &#8217;ll</abbr> murder
+her and set her hut in flames!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Oh! What shall we do?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> We are an army. <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> do as armies do. Take
+food where we can find it.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page91" id="page91" title="91"></a><strong>Asef.</strong> O, Rafael!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> Yes, love, <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> play the robber to fill the mouth
+of Liberty,&mdash;<abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> fed too long on thistles.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> a stern mistress, Rafael.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But sweeter, love,</span><br />
+<span>Her harshest frown that summer smiles of kings!</span><br />
+<span>O, I reproach her not, even when I see</span><br />
+<span>My dearest friends lie dying in her name!</span><br />
+<span>A bed of stones is soft enough for me</span><br />
+<span>If she but rock to sleep,&mdash;a crust to-day,</span><br />
+<span>To-morrow none, and at her board <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> fed.</span><br />
+<span>But when I look on you, my traitor blood</span><br />
+<span>Flies from her service. Oh, to see these hands</span><br />
+<span>That plucked no beauty ruder than the rose,</span><br />
+<span>So meanly laboring in the basest needs!</span><br />
+<span>Your gentle body resting on cold earth,</span><br />
+<span>Glad of a blanket &#8217;tween you and the sod,</span><br />
+<span>While in your bed the foreign robber sleeps!</span><br />
+<span>This shakes my loyalty till I could hate</span><br />
+<span>The fair, unspotted cause my sword is drawn in!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Stop, Rafael! O thank God these hands have known</span><br />
+<span>That blessed of all fortunes,&mdash;to toil for love!</span><br />
+<span>These eyes that sought for but a face more fair,</span><br />
+<span>A flower more sweet, have found the stars that rise</span><br />
+<span>Where Truth and Courage wander in the night!</span><br />
+<span>In southern vales maybe <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> hear again</span><br />
+<span>The morning birds sing at our bowered windows,</span><br />
+<span>But we will not forget the nobler song</span><br />
+<span>Now borne by winds about these mountain peaks,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The song of man made free!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> not forget.</span><br />
+<span>But will that sweet day come? Tell me, Aseffa,</span><br />
+<span>You who are half a sibyl,&mdash;shall we go down</span><br />
+<span>That valley to our home?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page92" id="page92" title="92"></a><strong class="i10">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> not to gain</span><br />
+<span>Our father&#8217;s halls, and sit &#8217;neath fig and vine,</span><br />
+<span>We hide and starve and stagger in these hills,</span><br />
+<span>But to keep noble the last hour of life,</span><br />
+<span>That Death who gathers it may read thereon</span><br />
+<span>The seal immortal of approving God.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> Yes&mdash;dear Aseffa&mdash;but&mdash;(<i>Faints</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rafael! Rafael!</span><br />
+<span>Ah dying! O my prating <abbr>virtue &#8217;s</abbr> gone!</span><br />
+<span>I care for naught but that my love shall live!</span><br />
+<span>O, Liberty, wilt spare me this one life?</span><br />
+<span>... Ho! Miguel! Up!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Mig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hey! What! Senora!... Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lerdo.</strong> <abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> wine in the general&#8217;s tent! Rafael!</span><br />
+<span>My love, my love, look up!... O Mexico,</span><br />
+<span>With all thy veins of gold thou art not worth</span><br />
+<span>One dear drop of his blood!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter General Trevino</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> this new grief?</span><br />
+<span>Not Rafael!... He faints. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> hunger ... hunger.</span><br />
+<span>Miguel! Lerdo! Bear him to my tent.</span><br />
+<span>Give him what food you find there. First the wine!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Soldiers go out with Rafael. Aseffa follows. As she
+passes the general she drops to her knees and kisses his
+hands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Trev.</strong> (<i>Alone</i>) Starvation now or plunder. <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> quarter where</span><br />
+<span>We can.... A horseman! If <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> Ignacio</span><br />
+<span>We shall have news.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Ignacio, from riding</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>Who &#8217;s</abbr> here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ignacio?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> (<i>Saluting</i>) Your pardon, sir!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You&#8217;re from the capital?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page93" id="page93" title="93"></a><strong>Ig.</strong> Three days ago I left the city. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> slept</span><br />
+<span>On horseback since.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your news!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We fight an empire.</span><br />
+<span>The Austrian is crowned.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Impossible!</span><br />
+<span>Where are our people? Salas? and LeVal?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> They shouted at his welcome. At Vera Cruz</span><br />
+<span>Began the unholy pageantry, that showed</span><br />
+<span>As Christ had come again and all men knew him!</span><br />
+<span>Each province drained its beauty by the way;</span><br />
+<span>The mules that drew him caught the vanity</span><br />
+<span>And picked their steps on flowers.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tell me no more.</span><br />
+<span>O Gratitude, thou hast no home on earth!</span><br />
+<span>Twelve months did Juarez rule, and in twelve months</span><br />
+<span>Did what no man can do but God is with him!</span><br />
+<span>He healed contention&#8217;s wounds, set up new schools,</span><br />
+<span>Released the land from priestcraft&#8217;s ancient grip,</span><br />
+<span>Rebuilt our credit, destroyed by Miramon,</span><br />
+<span>The robber president, who bonded the land</span><br />
+<span>To France, then set the sword of Europe &#8217;gainst us</span><br />
+<span>Because we could not pay the unjust debt</span><br />
+<span>From treasuries that his own hands had emptied.</span><br />
+<span>O, <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> a crime too big for Heaven&#8217;s eye,</span><br />
+<span>And so God let it pass! France could not know&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>But our own people knew&mdash;how Juarez toiled</span><br />
+<span>To shape the nation to his noble thought!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Yes&mdash;yes&mdash;they knew!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> break our swords, my boy.</span><br />
+<span>We have no country.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Is my uncle yet</span><br />
+<span>In Texas?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, and we will go to him.</span><br />
+<span>... Ungrateful ground that casts all goodness from it,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page94" id="page94" title="94"></a>And sucks a gilded poison!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Rafael, Aseffa, Miguel, Lerdo, and others of
+the camp</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Trevino</i>) Sir, you will miss</span><br />
+<span>Your breakfast, but I pledge my sword <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> have</span><br />
+<span>To-morrow&#8217;s supper!... Ignacio!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You here,</span><br />
+<span>My Rafael! (<i>They embrace</i>) Aseffa too!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dear friend! (<i>They greet affectionately</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> And Maximilian is crowned?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes ... crowned.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> You saw him?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In the cathedral, with the empress.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> The empress?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What looks he like? This Austrian duke</span><br />
+<span>That with a stolen crown mocks majesty!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> He looks like majesty, and yet is graced</span><br />
+<span>With Nature&#8217;s gentlest stamp; his countenance</span><br />
+<span>Takes beauty from his smile; his smile, one thinks,</span><br />
+<span>Takes sweetness from a heart that has its own</span><br />
+<span>Nobility from heaven.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An enemy</span><br />
+<span>Well praised!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The empress? She bewitched you too?</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ignacio is silent</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Come, sir! The truth of her!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The truth? Go ask</span><br />
+<span>The angels. <abbr>They &#8217;ve</abbr> tongues for such sweet purpose.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i23">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What!</span><br />
+<span>Ignacio turned squire o&#8217; the empire?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No.</span><br />
+<span>But I can read a holy woman&#8217;s face,</span><br />
+<span>Though she by some strange counterfeit of truth</span><br />
+<span>Would put an empress&#8217; foot upon our necks.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page95" id="page95" title="95"></a><strong>Asef.</strong> What is she like?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Like nothing but herself.</span><br />
+<span>She is not gentle, for gentleness is but</span><br />
+<span>Rude servant to that quality in her;</span><br />
+<span>Gracious <abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> not, for grace herself doth serve</span><br />
+<span>A poor handmaiden to her excellence;</span><br />
+<span>Nor beautiful, for Beauty asks her name</span><br />
+<span>To wear but that and know her own no more.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>In the silence that follows a rider rushes up and dismounts</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Messenger.</strong> Where is the general, Trevino?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mess.</strong> Juarez approaches. (<i>Saluting</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juarez! Call up the camp!</span><br />
+<span>Light all the beacons! Juarez! Build up the fires!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Shouts.</strong> Juarez! Juarez! Hurrah! El presidente!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Trev.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> let him know the hearts he left i&#8217; the hills</span><br />
+<span>Still beat with loyal blood!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Shouts.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juarez! Juarez! (<i>Enter Juarez. Silence</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Trevino!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your Excellency! (<i>They embrace</i>) <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> heard?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I know.</span><br />
+<span>Now monarchy has spread her gilded sails,</span><br />
+<span>And from the East comes like another sun</span><br />
+<span>To blind our eyes with wonder of a crown</span><br />
+<span>While shackling us by hand and foot to earth.</span><br />
+<span>But from these mountains will arise a queen,</span><br />
+<span>The figure grey of ancient Liberty,</span><br />
+<span>Mourning and wronged, but with the <ins title="Corrected from Errata">unpaling</ins> star</span><br />
+<span>Of God&#8217;s own favor set upon her brow:</span><br />
+<span>These two shall meet&mdash;and that mock sun go down!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Trev.</strong> You still have hope when Mexico deserts us?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Dost read your country in the smile she shows</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page96" id="page96" title="96"></a>Her conqueror? She has a heart beneath!</span><br />
+<span>Ay, sir, did she not prove it at Puebla?</span><br />
+<span>Where dead fell on the dead with gun in hand</span><br />
+<span>Still pointed to the French! Where, hope once lost,</span><br />
+<span>And the enemy pouring through the shattered gates,</span><br />
+<span>Our men blew up their city and themselves</span><br />
+<span>To keep their souls free from Napoleon!</span><br />
+<span>These men have brothers left, and sons,</span><br />
+<span>And <em>they are Mexico</em>!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Soldiers.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;El presidente!</span><br />
+<span>Liberty and Juarez!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>A soldier.</strong> (<i>Waving his sword</i>) <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> be revenged,</span><br />
+<span>Or spill more blood than hell can drink!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Soldiers.</strong> Down with the empire! Death to Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> No, not revenge,&mdash;but justice. That&#8217;s enough.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>We &#8217;ve</abbr> but to wait&mdash;and strike. Yon mists now spread</span><br />
+<span>Their fair illusion o&#8217;er the eternal mountains</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;Till &#8217;t</abbr> seems they are the world, and the great hills</span><br />
+<span>Are naught. But by to-morrow&#8217;s noon-sun see</span><br />
+<span>Their fortunes faded as a dream of night,</span><br />
+<span>While the rock peak looks up as if to say</span><br />
+<span>From the foundation of the world I am!</span><br />
+<span>So will this glamour o&#8217;er our godly cause</span><br />
+<span>Pass as a breath, while all the world shall read</span><br />
+<span>Our right and title to unbonded life</span><br />
+<span>In our free bosoms founded and God-set!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>A soldier.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> die for freedom!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Die? That&#8217;s the one thing</span><br />
+<span>We can not do. We may lie down in graves,</span><br />
+<span>But from our living dust will spring new challenge</span><br />
+<span>To make in noble minds continual war</span><br />
+<span>Until our race be righted!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Many fly</span><br />
+<span>From our misfortunes. Amaldo and LeVal&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page97" id="page97" title="97"></a><strong>Jua.</strong> <abbr>Call &#8217;t</abbr> not misfortune that teaches us our friends.</span><br />
+<span>Now are we sifted and the chaff is known!</span><br />
+<span>... LeVal! ... But Diaz is true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On yonder mountain</span><br />
+<span>His fires make answer for him.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> (<i>Looking into distance</i>) Forgive me, comrade!</span><br />
+<span>I know you true, and sooner will yon moon</span><br />
+<span>Make her last change and fall than you change once</span><br />
+<span>From the full circle of a complete man....</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Turns and sees Ignacio</i>)</span><br />
+<span>My nephew here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Just from the capital.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Where you must back again. Rafael, too!</span><br />
+<span>Both my young soldiers! My right arm and my left,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Though which is which I know not. Ignacio,</span><br />
+<span>You saw the Austrian? No matter. <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> but</span><br />
+<span>The drift-piece of a rotten monarchy</span><br />
+<span>That thinks to graft upon the living tree</span><br />
+<span>Of our new-sprung republic! <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> shake him off</span><br />
+<span>As a June oak a spray of winter wreck,</span><br />
+<span>Nor ever know he clung upon our boughs!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> The church is powerful yet, and seeks to join</span><br />
+<span>Her cause with his.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The church? Say not the church,</span><br />
+<span>But mockers in Christ&#8217;s name, who steal the land</span><br />
+<span>And drain its fruitage into Satan&#8217;s purse,</span><br />
+<span>Keeping the poor a race of hopeless slaves</span><br />
+<span>Who worship their own shackles! O, Ignorance,</span><br />
+<span>Thou art the great slave-master! Thy very chains</span><br />
+<span>Are vital and beget themselves; and he</span><br />
+<span>Who strikes them seems the monster of the earth</span><br />
+<span>To the poor serf who thinks it is himself</span><br />
+<span>That bleeds! The church be with our foe, with us</span><br />
+<span>Be God, <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> ask no more. Hear me, my men!</span><br />
+<span>The great republic of the <abbr>North &#8217;s</abbr> our friend.</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page98" id="page98" title="98"></a>When her own war is done <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> hear her speak</span><br />
+<span>To France in cannon tones that will make quake</span><br />
+<span>Napoleon on his throne! That great mock-god.</span><br />
+<span>Who seeks to free all men that he may fit</span><br />
+<span>Their necks to his own yoke! (<i>With growing intensity</i>) That adder who</span><br />
+<span>Would coil about the world! That serpent scruffed</span><br />
+<span>With white deceit and low ambition&#8217;s slime,</span><br />
+<span>That crept into the garden of my dream</span><br />
+<span>And cankered bud and root, nursed by my toil,</span><br />
+<span>Fed with my dearest blood! Ay, he will quake,</span><br />
+<span>And cry for mercy to a stony Heaven</span><br />
+<span>Whose pity drops long since were drained upon</span><br />
+<span>The woe that he hath made! Ay, he&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Touching him</i>) But now,</span><br />
+<span>My friend?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> (<i>Composed</i>) You&#8217;re right. No more of that. Nephew!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Here, sir!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your place will be the capital.</span><br />
+<span>We must have eyes there, and a heart to serve us.</span><br />
+<span>This hour set out. Here are instructions. (<i>Gives papers</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> had no rest.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;True ... true....</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And need none when</span><br />
+<span>Juarez commands.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> (<i>Taking his hand</i>) <abbr>Thou &#8217;rt</abbr> still my son. My house</span><br />
+<span>Will not fall down when I no longer prop it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> May I not beg this office, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Send him!</span><br />
+<span>His heart is in the hills, and <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> come back.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Ignacio &#8217;s</abbr> yet unanchored. Trust him not</span><br />
+<span>To high tides of a court.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page99" id="page99" title="99"></a><strong class="i11">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I trust them both.</span><br />
+<span>But my own blood I know. (<i>To Ig.</i>) Kneel for the oath.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Ignacio kneels. Murmurs around, then silence.
+Juarez takes a crucifix from his bosom and holds it over
+Ignacio</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> By this true image of the bleeding Christ,</span><br />
+<span>May you be damned to everlasting fire,</span><br />
+<span>Nor prayers of saints lift up your soul from hell,</span><br />
+<span>If you prove false in what you undertake</span><br />
+<span>This night for Mexico!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By Christ&#8217;s own blood.</span><br />
+<span>I swear, and may that blood be powerless</span><br />
+<span>To save me from the damned if I prove false!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> The stars that hold</span><br />
+<span>The witness angels of the Lord have heard</span><br />
+<span>Thy oath.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> (<i>Rising and looking up</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i5">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Let them record it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Fearfully</i>) Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Trev.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Holding out a brand</i>) The brand!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Not that!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> (<i>Baring his arm</i>) I choose it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Trevino quickly
+brands his arm with a cross. Juarez, too late, dashes the
+brand from his hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Throwing up his arm</i>) Sealed to the cause!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Hurries to go</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> My boy! (<i>Ignacio returns for Juarez&#8217; embrace</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Going</i>) Liberty and Juarez!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Soldiers.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juarez!</span><br />
+<span>Liberty and Juarez!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All but Juarez follow Ignatius out, cheering</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i10">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hurrah! hurrah!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Juarez draws his grey mantle about him and stands
+silent. The fires die down. The moon clouds. He looks
+up invoking</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page100" id="page100" title="100"></a><strong>Jua.</strong> Spirit of Montezuma, be thou here</span><br />
+<span>And on thy son drop wisdom out of Heaven,</span><br />
+<span>That these thy children he may lead to peace,</span><br />
+<span>And this thy country give again to him</span><br />
+<span>Who set his iron in the earth and said</span><br />
+<span>&ldquo;Man, make thy weapon; there shall be no slaves!&rdquo;</span></p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play2act2" id="play2act2"></a>ACT II.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act2scene1" id="play2act2scene1"></a>Scene I: Palace of Chapultapec. Hall adjoining
+ball room. Gaily dressed women, and men in glittering
+official costumes passing doors. Marquez and Mejia
+talking.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> caught Trevino!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Mejia.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rafael Mendorez too.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Still better. <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> have them shot at once?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mejia.</strong> <abbr>They &#8217;ve</abbr> too many friends. I must have the emperor&#8217;s warrant.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> He will sign the decree to-night.</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Mejia.</strong> The Lord be thanked! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> tired of risking
+life and men taking prisoners that his majesty may
+have the pleasure of pardoning them.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mar.</strong> If he signs the decree he will be sure to reserve
+the right to pardon. You must try my method.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mejia.</strong> And that?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mar.</strong> Shoot on the spot, and report no captures.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter from the ball room Maximilian, Marshal
+<a class="page" name="page101" id="page101" title="101"></a>Bazaine, General Miramon, and Count Charles</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Your majesty will sign the law to-night?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> These men wear the brave name of soldiers; fight</span><br />
+<span>Beneath a flag, and claim the rights of war.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> They borrow war&#8217;s fair name to kill and plunder!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> It was my dream when I took up this crown</span><br />
+<span>To claim each subject of the land my own.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> And so you may, your majesty. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> true.</span><br />
+<span>These men are subjects to no law or nation;</span><br />
+<span>They are not Mexico&#8217;s; they are not God&#8217;s;</span><br />
+<span>But from the heavenly and the human pale</span><br />
+<span>They have outbarred themselves. Our honest land</span><br />
+<span>Has cast them out as venom to her health!</span><br />
+<span>Nurse not this canker in your realm, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> I do not know ... but <abbr>here &#8217;s</abbr> my head and heart,</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Touching Prince Salm-Salm and Count Charles</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>And they may answer. Prince, what do you say?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Prince Salm.</strong> As friend and soldier to your majesty,</span><br />
+<span>I must advise the passage of the law.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> You, Charles?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord, if as you say, these men</span><br />
+<span>Fight &#8217;neath a flag, and for suppos&eacute;d rights,</span><br />
+<span>You violate the law of noble nations</span><br />
+<span>In sentencing to death the prisoners</span><br />
+<span>Of recogniz&eacute;d war.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Sneering</i>) Sir, recognized?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Does not the United States still call Juarez</span><br />
+<span>The president of Mexico?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Why, count,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> best consult those books of yours again!</span><br />
+<span>Juarez has fled and given up his cause.</span><br />
+<span>These men are robbers! Your majesty will sign?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page102" id="page102" title="102"></a><strong>Max.</strong> Forgive me, friends, if I again say no.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Your majesty, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> we should ask your pardon</span><br />
+<span>For having failed to lustre as we should</span><br />
+<span>This seeming-dark decree,&mdash;so wise, so just,</span><br />
+<span>And as undoubtedly your duteous act</span><br />
+<span>As though some stern necessity of the stars</span><br />
+<span>Enjoined it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Uneasily</i>) Press it not now. The people wait.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All but Marquez go into ballroom</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Some fools have sat on crowns but not for long.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> sign. The Liberals must be dispatched</span><br />
+<span>Fast as we capture them, for <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> short time.</span><br />
+<span>The United States will soon be free again</span><br />
+<span>To turn to us, and what we wish to do</span><br />
+<span>Must be well done ere that. Dispatch! Dispatch!</span><br />
+<span>Use Maximilian and the French to crush</span><br />
+<span>The Liberals, then with the church unite</span><br />
+<span>To pull down Maximilian and set up&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Marquez!... The Empress&mdash;and Ignacio!</span><br />
+<span>One I suspect,&mdash;a half-breed full of pride!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Who &#8217;d</abbr> have the court forget his Indian mother</span><br />
+<span>And bear in mind his father was a noble!</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i21">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Goes aside.</i></span><br />
+<i>Enter Carlotta and Ignacio, followed by Prince and
+Princess Zichy, Prince and Princess Salm-Salm, Princess
+Josefa de Varela, Colonel Lopez, making merry with a
+fortune teller. The Empress steps apart with Ignacio</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Ignacio! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> met strange looks to-night!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> But not unkind ones, noble madam?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, such</span><br />
+<span>As can not be distinguished by a word,</span><br />
+<span>Cold, warm, or dark or fair, bitter or kind!</span><br />
+<span>Ah, looks that will not advertise the heart,</span><br />
+<span>And yet betray too much!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page103" id="page103" title="103"></a><strong class="i11">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> A little coldness that might melt to love,</span><br />
+<span>A little pity that might soon be hate,</span><br />
+<span>A fair &lsquo;God with you&rsquo; shaping to a curse&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> What eye can harbor evil meeting yours</span><br />
+<span>Where lies a grace that turns all ill to virtue?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Would all were true as you, Ignacio!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Looks to ballroom and shudders</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Those eyes! Would I looked not so deep in eyes!</span><br />
+<span>... You love my lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I do, your majesty.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Above all other men? (<i>He is silent</i>) Nay, do not answer!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> wrong to ask, for you have kinsmen maybe,</span><br />
+<span>Brother, or uncle, some one dear in blood</span><br />
+<span>Whom Heaven bids you cherish. But you will guard</span><br />
+<span>Your Emperor! <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> watch with me for foes?</span><br />
+<span>For foes? He has none! How the thought</span><br />
+<span>Blasphemes his excellence! But <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> a world</span><br />
+<span>Where whitest merit draws the darkest souls</span><br />
+<span>To prey upon it, while mere indifferent good</span><br />
+<span>Escapes!... Ignacio, is it true, Juarez</span><br />
+<span>Is not in Mexico?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, madam!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Is &#8217;t</abbr> true the Liberals are disbanded?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;True?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> You do not answer, sir!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It is not true.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> You know it! You? And they still hope?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They do.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Then we are playing with an enemy!</span><br />
+<span>How do you know?... You traitor, too!... O Heaven!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> time now to be up or treachery</span><br />
+<span>Will take us all asleep! (<i>Goes from him</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page104" id="page104" title="104"></a><strong>Ig.</strong> (<i>Following her</i>) O madam! madam!</span><br />
+<span>My heart is all your own!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Turning to him</i>) Forgive me, friend,</span><br />
+<span>And I will wrong no more these honest eyes.</span><br />
+<span>But there is danger here, and we must strike!</span><br />
+<span>We hold a nation&#8217;s future in our hands,</span><br />
+<span>And now defence is virtue, patience crime!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Your majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Not heeding</i>) Shall we stand here and smile</span><br />
+<span>Till rebel blows have shattered life and throne?</span><br />
+<span>... Dupin shall drive these desperate people back&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>This law be signed&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>With horror</i>) Dear Christ!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What do you mean?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Will Maximilian pass a law of death,</span><br />
+<span>Condemning patriots to a robber&#8217;s grave?</span><br />
+<span>O, Empress, sue upon your knees that he</span><br />
+<span>Do not this thing, for every act of his</span><br />
+<span>Not marked with justice to his enemies</span><br />
+<span>Will rob him of the pity they would show</span><br />
+<span>When victory is theirs! He writes his doom</span><br />
+<span>As certainly as he doth set his name</span><br />
+<span>To that black law, and gives Dupin his will</span><br />
+<span>Among our helpless people!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess Zichy.</strong> (<i>From group about the gipsy,<!-- Inconsistently spelt as both 'gipsy' and 'gypsy' in original --> as all laugh</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i14">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty,</span><br />
+<span>You heard?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I heard. (<i>To Ignacio, much disturbed</i>) Go join them! Go! (<i>Ignacio joins group</i>) <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> true!</span><br />
+<span>My lord in danger!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess de Varela.</strong> Now mother, my hand next!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Gipsy scans her hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> &lsquo;Rob him of pity!&rsquo; &lsquo;When victory is theirs!&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>I know the pity given to the fallen</span><br />
+<span>In this blood-drunken land! <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> but one way...</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page105" id="page105" title="105"></a>We must not fall!... <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> war, then,&mdash;war! Not for</span><br />
+<span>An empire, no,&mdash;but Maximilian&#8217;s life!</span><br />
+<span>And we must use the weapons in our hands!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Gip.</strong> (<i>Reading</i>)</span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Days of brightness, days of smiles,</span><br />
+<span>Read I here or Fate beguiles!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p><strong>Princess S.</strong> O these fortunes are like lines from a
+fairy book! Surely we are not all going to be happy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> read for you, madam.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Princess S.</strong> But let not your change of song begin
+with me, dark mother!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> (<i>Reading</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Days of darkness, days of moan!</span><br />
+<span>A friend shall sigh, a friend shall fall,</span><br />
+<span>And wring thy bosom more than all</span><br />
+<span>The sorrow that thou yet hast known!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p><strong>Princess S.</strong> O think better of it, mother!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> Your sweet eyes deserve a better portion than
+tears, and I read too,</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>But ere thy last hour be nigh</span><br />
+<span>Sorrow from thy breast shall fly!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p><strong>Princess S.</strong> A friend, you say? I thank you, <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr>
+not my husband!</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Gip.</strong></span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>And yet a husband he,</span><br />
+<span>And many tears <abbr>thou &#8217;lt</abbr> see!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) A friend&mdash;a husband&mdash;and a fall!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> Shall I read for her majesty?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page106" id="page106" title="106"></a><strong>Car.</strong> No! no!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lopez.</strong> She has peeped into Fate&#8217;s urn, madam, I
+assure you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Car.</strong> Nay, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> content. What I choose for myself I
+will abide, and what I choose not is the gift of God and
+<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> abide that too!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Prince Zichy.</strong> I congratulate you! Majesty is not
+always able to show such noble indifference to the future,
+and lesser mortals&mdash;never!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> Please the stars, may I read for you, sir?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Prince Zichy.</strong> I give you a proxy,&mdash;Senor Ignacio.
+If the fortune be fair, I take it, if not, I leave it with
+him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ladies.</strong> O, hear Ignacio&#8217;s fortune! (<i>They crowd
+about him and the gypsy</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>To Lopez</i>) A favor, sir! Will you take a
+message to his majesty?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lopez.</strong> I am twice blest&mdash;to bear your message&mdash;and
+bear it to the emperor. (<i>They talk apart</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gip.</strong> <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> a secret matter, sir. Shall I speak it
+out?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> O spare me! Come aside!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ladies.</strong> Nay, nay, Ignacio! You heard our fortunes!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> But yours were fair and innocent, and mine is
+dark and guilty&mdash;maybe with crime!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ladies.</strong> Oh! A crime!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> Come, witch! (<i>They go aside, near where
+Marquez is stationed unseen</i>) Aseffa!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Rafael is prisoner at Savarro! Trevino is
+taken, too!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> O Heaven! (<i>To ladies</i>) Stay back! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> crime
+indeed!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ladies.</strong> Villain!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Help me to Maximilian! O, I must see him!
+You called him gentle! When I tell him what Rafael is&mdash;the
+<a class="page" name="page107" id="page107" title="107"></a>fairest soul man ever called a foe&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> Softly, Aseffa! You can not see the emperor to-night.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> I must! To-morrow <abbr>&#8217;t will</abbr> be too late! He
+dies at sunrise!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> Rafael! My friend! my brother!&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Quiet! quiet! Smile, Ignacio! Ha! ha! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr>
+pray it be not true, sir!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ig.</strong> But you can see Count Charles. <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> Maximilian&#8217;s
+very heart, and once you win him the Emperor is
+won. Go in! Go in! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> bring you to the count!
+Be light of heart! Our Rafael is safe!</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Ignacio, the Empress is all you said.</span><br />
+<span>Prayers on their way to Heaven meeting her</span><br />
+<span>Would think their journey ended. Can you be true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> (<i>Touching his arm</i>)</span><br />
+<span>I bear the seal.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;God help thee!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Go!</span><br />
+<span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To ladies</i>) <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> done!</span><br />
+<span>I know my sins!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Princess de V.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;But what a smiling sinner!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess Salm.</strong> A cloud is hovering. Come, sir! I shall know it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes his arm. Mexican
+national dance begins. All go into ballroom, the
+Empress with Lopez</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Ignacio a Liberal! And branded!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> finished! But <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> pick my hour for it!</span><br />
+<span>Mendorez safe! Ay, if <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> bullet-proof!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Carlotta with Archbishop Labastida</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> I thank your Highness for this gracious moment!</span><br />
+<span>Most holy Empress&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not holy, sir, and yet</span><br />
+<span>I hope with touch of God&#8217;s anointment on me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> Did it but rest with you His love would soon</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page108" id="page108" title="108"></a>Like cloud of rose veil Mexico in beauty.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> But rest with me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, noble lady, you.</span><br />
+<span>I bear a letter from his Holiness,</span><br />
+<span>In which he says his Empress daughter&#8217;s zeal</span><br />
+<span>Is jewelled in his heart,&mdash;but urges me</span><br />
+<span>To speak to Maximilian of his strange</span><br />
+<span>Reluctance to fulfill his promise.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Promise?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> To give the Church the olden glory that</span><br />
+<span>She shone with here! Restore her rights&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> true</span><br />
+<span>He promised that, and he has kept his word</span><br />
+<span>As an account with God. He is convinced</span><br />
+<span>The rights claimed by the Church are stolen rights</span><br />
+<span>She wrung from ignorance for her earthly glory,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> resolved to maintain Juarez&#8217; law</span><br />
+<span>So far as it accords with justice.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Madness!</span><br />
+<span>Call back Juarez to power! Yield the throne</span><br />
+<span>To the republican! For <abbr>&#8217;t will</abbr> so end</span><br />
+<span>If Maximilian scorns us and our help!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> He does not scorn you, sir, but seeks to find</span><br />
+<span>Where the division comes &#8217;tween you and Christ</span><br />
+<span>And set himself upon the side of Heaven.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> You will divorce the favor of the pope,</span><br />
+<span>Without whose help you may not hope to stand.</span><br />
+<span>Plead with your lord again to probe our claim,</span><br />
+<span>And find therein some wise and prudent reason</span><br />
+<span>To give us aid,&mdash;and thereby keep his crown.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Yes, I will speak; but I shall not forget,</span><br />
+<span>Whate&#8217;er I say, he is an Emperor! (<i>Exit</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> (<i>Coming forward</i>) A pair of fools are jiggling with a crown.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> You heard, Marquez?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page109" id="page109" title="109"></a><strong class="i10">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And knew before I heard.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> And you are patient?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Maximilian</span><br />
+<span>Means France, and France we must keep ours,&mdash;at least</span><br />
+<span>Till we have finished with the Liberals,&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> And then?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We need not go so far to make</span><br />
+<span>A wiser choice.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> (<i>Looking at him meaningly</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i8">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not far indeed!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I thank you.</span><br />
+<span>But that&#8217;s hereafter. Come with me, your grace.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> speak of something more immediate.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt left</i>)</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter from ballroom General Miramon, Marshal
+Bazaine and Colonel Dupin, the last a large, vain, blustering
+man, gorgeously and expensively arrayed from
+head to foot. A sombrero wonderfully trimmed with
+gold and silver is carried in his hand and used in sweeping
+salutations</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> At last I am called to court! I thought his
+majesty would soon or late have need of my experience
+in throat-cutting.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> But, my dear Dupin, it is not in your capacity
+of throat-cutter that we introduce you. These towns
+that have given aid to the Liberals must be punished
+without the Emperor&#8217;s knowledge. You will make an
+example of them?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> Will I? Hear him, Marshal! Will I?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> But not a word to the Emperor!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> Softish, eh?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> His spongy heart is filled with water of compassion.
+Touch it anywhere it pours!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Baz.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not going to throw away the lives of any
+more Frenchmen just to give him a chance to play at
+<a class="page" name="page110" id="page110" title="110"></a>clemency! An emperor should be a sort of vitalized
+stone, capable of action but incapable of impression.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> Then <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> the man for emperor! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> always
+suspected my qualifications for the part. By the lord,
+<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> made women who were hungry enough to eat their
+own children watch my soldiers throw bread into the
+sea! And when I was with the French and English in
+old Chinee&mdash;well, <abbr>they &#8217;ve</abbr> called me the &lsquo;Tigre&rsquo; since
+then. <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> heard about that! (<i>Struts and sings</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> the tigre of the East,</span><br />
+<span>Got my claws in old Pekin</span><br />
+<span>When the yellow kids we fleeced</span><br />
+<span>And held up the mandarin!</span></p>
+
+<p class="italic"><span>O we caught him by the queue,</span><br /><!-- Lack of indent in original may be an error -->
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;As he from our captains flew,</span><br />
+<span>That quaking little, shaking little mandarin.</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;And we dragged him out to view</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;By that most convenient queue,</span><br />
+<span>When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>My friends, if you will excuse me, there are several
+dozens of ladies in the ball room waiting for a dance with
+the costume par excellence of the evening. I am not
+always sure of a welcome for my face, but my costume
+is never in doubt. Ah, sweet woman! you can please me
+twice. I can dance with you&mdash;and I can kill you! When
+the Emperor asks for me I shall not decline an introduction,&mdash;though
+he was not born an emperor and I was
+born Dupin! (<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong><ins title="Original reads 'Bas.'">Baz.</ins></strong> Is he as villainous as his conversation?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> His talk is but the mildest prologue to his
+deeds.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Baz.</strong> Then <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> the man for us. We shall never
+drive back the Liberals but by methods of unmitigated
+severity.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page111" id="page111" title="111"></a><strong>Mir.</strong> There is no barbarity too great for the intimidation
+of these towns.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Baz.</strong> The only absolutely safe plan is to raze them
+from the earth.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Trust Dupin! (<i>They go into ballroom.
+Enter, right, Count Charles and Aseffa. Her disguise is
+thrown back revealing her beauty</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> You help me though a Liberal and your foe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> A foe! Dear lady, when you besought my aid</span><br />
+<span>Methought it was divinity that spoke,</span><br />
+<span>So sacred sweet seemed the request. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> save</span><br />
+<span>Your brother.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, dearer than a brother, sir.<!-- . missing in original --></span><br />
+<span>It is my husband!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Husband!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, my lord.</span><br />
+<span>And dearer than&mdash;You have a wife?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, lady.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> O, then you can not know! But you have loved?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> I love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A lover&mdash;not a husband. Ah!</span><br />
+<span>Add to thy love a thousand dearer loves</span><br />
+<span>And take their sum a thousand times a thousand,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> be the smallest part divisible</span><br />
+<span>Of my dear love for Rafael! <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> save him?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Yes&mdash;I will save him. Do you trust me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trust you?</span><br />
+<span>As I would Heaven! (<i>Kisses his hands and goes out, right</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gone! Aseffa! Gone?</span><br />
+<span>No, never gone! Her kisses here! O lips</span><br />
+<span>That swept like drifting roses o&#8217;er my hands&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Both hands,&mdash;sweet equity! Still are they warm</span><br />
+<span>As they were dipped in summer, though her touch</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page112" id="page112" title="112"></a>Was maiden light nor robbed him of a jot</span><br />
+<span>Who should have all. Her husband&mdash;<abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> a word</span><br />
+<span>She used to slay me with!... Even in sorrow</span><br />
+<span>She is more fair than any other fair</span><br />
+<span>Met on a holiday. But when she smiled</span><br />
+<span>She seemed like Fortune giving away a world.</span><br />
+<span>So gracious was her splendor. Thou art revenged,</span><br />
+<span>O little demon god so long my scorn!</span><br />
+<span>Would I had given my heart by piecemeal out</span><br />
+<span>Since I was ten than to have lost it so,</span><br />
+<span>For going all at once it takes my life</span><br />
+<span>And I must lose my life or follow it.</span><br />
+<span>Ah, love should come like waves unto a shore,</span><br />
+<span>Soft <ins title="Original reads 'creeeping'">creeping</ins> up and back and up again.</span><br />
+<span>Till taught to stand receptive we are firm</span><br />
+<span>When the last, highest wave envelops us.</span><br />
+<span>... May God restore me!... O her beauty burns</span><br />
+<span>As she were limned by lightning on the night!</span><br />
+<span>Her eyes are torches that Eternity</span><br />
+<span>Lends life to read her dreams! Her cheek</span><br />
+<span>Is June within a bud! Her veins have caught</span><br />
+<span>The falling sun that in them strives to rise</span><br />
+<span>To a new dawn!... And I must save him&mdash;save him!</span><br />
+<span>This unknown man that holds the flaming sword</span><br />
+<span>Above my paradise!... If this decree</span><br />
+<span>Is signed she will be widowed ... (<i>Stops in horror</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i17">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am mad!...</span><br />
+<span>... She will be free ... Away, sweet hell, whose face</span><br />
+<span>Is masked like heaven!... Let solid earth be air,</span><br />
+<span>The air be lead, light change to dark, and dark</span><br />
+<span>Be as the sun, <abbr>&#8217;t will</abbr> be no miracle</span><br />
+<span>When murder finds a welcome in my heart!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Maximilian, Bazaine, Miramon, Dupin,
+Berzabal, Ruiz, Estrada, Ignacio</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To Dupin</i>) We&#8217;re glad to welcome you.
+<a class="page" name="page113" id="page113" title="113"></a><abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> be your charge to guard the unprotected towns
+now suffering from the raids of Liberals.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Of men, your majesty, who steal that title to
+grace a brigand&#8217;s life!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> So we&#8217;re assured.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> see to it, sir, that these towns play no <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">love-tricks</ins>
+with the enemy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Baz.</strong> Sh!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> No danger that way. Your duty is to protect
+them!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> No offense, I hope. But treason is a lively
+beast and hard to keep low. As your majesty&#8217;s officer I
+must cudgel it down wherever I find it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> If unhappily you find it, sir&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> cut the throat of every man dog of &#8217;em!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Sir? (<i>Turns to Bazaine</i>) The Colonel&#8217;s
+speech is very figurative, good Marshal. (<i>To Dupin</i>) All
+instances of treason, (and God forbid there should
+be one!) will be reported to me for careful investigation.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> A thousand pardons, your Highness! I was
+swept away by my devotion to your majesty! I shall
+remember that you wish me to observe the mildest temperance
+in dealing with your majesty&#8217;s enemies. (<i>As the
+emperor looks questioningly at Bazaine, Dupin snarls,
+then repeats suavely</i>) The mildest temperance in dealing
+with your majesty&#8217;s enemies.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> That is our wish. The mildest temperance.
+And this decree, Colonel Dupin? Would you advise its
+passage?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> I should be so hot to sign it, sir, my zeal would
+boil the ink in the bottle!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Very figurative, Marshal! (<i>To Dupin</i>) As
+yet we have not reconciled the matter with our conscience.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page114" id="page114" title="114"></a>(<i>Lopez enters and comes up to the Emperor</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> (<i>Handing him a slip of paper</i>) Your majesty,
+the Empress sends you this.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Maximilian reads aside:</i>) &lsquo;Sign the decree.&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) What has she heard?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> (<i>At a distance, in rear of Maximilian, folds his
+hands meekly on his breast and whistles softly</i>)</p>
+
+<p>&lsquo;When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!&rsquo;
+(<i>Mimics</i>) &lsquo;As yet we have not reconciled the matter
+with our conscience.&rsquo; Does he think he can govern
+Mexico with a prayer-book? Put him in his cradle and
+sing by-lo-baby!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To Miramon, who has spoken to him</i>)
+<abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> only one left to oppose it&mdash;Charles.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> My lord, <abbr>you &#8217;d</abbr> set a scholar&#8217;s word against</span><br />
+<span>A general&#8217;s in matters of the field?</span><br />
+<span>The count&#8217;s opinion, born within a closet,</span><br />
+<span>Would die in open air but for your nursing.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Come, Count, defend your cause.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My cause, my lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> You are but one against the government.</span><br />
+<span>Canst talk above so big a head? If not,</span><br />
+<span>I fear <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> pass this law of blood. Come, come!</span><br />
+<span>Be eloquent! My heart would have you win!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> (<i>Very pale and hesitating</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Your majesty&mdash;I beg&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Goes it so deep</span><br />
+<span>To your good heart?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgive me, Charles,</span><br />
+<span>For pressing you so much. <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> rest to-night.</span><br />
+<span>To-morrow <abbr>there &#8217;ll</abbr> be time.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Hastily</i>) No! Not to-morrow!</span><br />
+<span>Sign the decree! Sign it to-night!</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page115" id="page115" title="115"></a>(<i>Maximilian looks with the greatest astonishment at
+his now flushed face and eager manner, then thinks he
+understands</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, Charles,</span><br />
+<span>This tender heart of yours will kill you yet.</span><br />
+<span>No more of this. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> keep you at your books.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> (<i>Recovering, proceeds with suavity, completely sold to his desire</i>)</span><br />
+<span>My mind has cleared with deeper thought, my lord,</span><br />
+<span>Discord, the ancients tell us, was at first</span><br />
+<span>So small a gnat did give her birth, but grew</span><br />
+<span>So great her feet o&#8217;erturned proud cities while</span><br />
+<span>Her head upset the gods in council. So this</span><br />
+<span>Small trouble may o&#8217;ercast your destiny&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>is &#8217;t</abbr> not better, sir, to pass a law,</span><br />
+<span>However dreaded, &#8217;gainst the rebel few</span><br />
+<span>Than that the nation trusted to your care</span><br />
+<span>Should be broad cursed with civil slaughter?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Better?</span><br />
+<span>If such a danger threatens <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> a crime</span><br />
+<span>Not to forfend it!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Marquez and Archbishop Labastida</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gracious sovereign!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Most reverend father, you would counsel us?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> We would, your majesty. If yet the wish</span><br />
+<span>Of Heaven has power over you; and Christ</span><br />
+<span>Be your most high example, you will prove</span><br />
+<span>A careful guardian to your trusting people,</span><br />
+<span>And crush this villainous and robber race</span><br />
+<span>Now preying on the true and innocent,</span><br />
+<span>Swelling each day more poisonous and foul!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> We are decided. Are we not, good Charles?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> (<i>Hastily</i>) Nay, sire&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We are decided&mdash;to pass this law.</span><br />
+<span>Convinced that <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> the honest course.</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page116" id="page116" title="116"></a>(<i>All surprised and relieved but Ignacio, who starts
+with horror</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> My God!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Blest majesty, we thank you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You do but set</span><br />
+<span>Your name where Heaven&#8217;s seal already shines.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> The seal of Hell! O noblest man that breathes</span><br />
+<span>This corrupt air, take back that word of death</span><br />
+<span>Ere it is stamped in black upon your soul!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> (<i>After a silence</i>) An Aztec, sire, and nephew to Juarez.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> You think that is a sin? Among our friends</span><br />
+<span>Are many whose nearest kinsmen nobly served</span><br />
+<span>The lost Republic. Hear us, Ignacio.</span><br />
+<span>This law is subject to a firm condition:</span><br />
+<span>Each officer shall make report to us,</span><br />
+<span>And every captive who deserves not death</span><br />
+<span>Shall have our pardon.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then, <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> pardon two</span><br />
+<span>Now at Savarro, Trevino and Mendorez,</span><br />
+<span>Both doomed to die at sunrise!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ravagers!</span><br />
+<span>Brigands! Ay, murderers!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No! Patriots!</span><br />
+<span>Soldiers! And martyrs if they die! My lord,</span><br />
+<span>If they have plundered, <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> to feed an army;</span><br />
+<span>If they have killed,&mdash;that is the aim of war.</span><br />
+<span>They are your foes, but noble ones,&mdash;and men,</span><br />
+<span>Not creatures to be caught in traps and shot</span><br />
+<span>Like beasts!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> look to this. Marquez, at once</span><br />
+<span>Send a dispatch commanding they be held</span><br />
+<span>As prisoners of war until <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> time</span><br />
+<span>To examine them.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I will, your majesty.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page117" id="page117" title="117"></a><strong>Ig.</strong> My lord, at Callovalla when the French</span><br />
+<span>Had routed the Republicans, there came</span><br />
+<span>At night some student priests into the field</span><br />
+<span>To help the wounded and to cheer the dying.</span><br />
+<span>This man, Marquez, set on them with his troop</span><br />
+<span>And made them prisoners. The morning sun</span><br />
+<span>Beheld each saintly minister shot dead.</span><br />
+<span>And you would trust this devil with the life</span><br />
+<span>Of captive foes? A man whose hands are red</span><br />
+<span>With God&#8217;s own blood?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He lies! Your majesty,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> prove him traitor to your very eyes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Traitor?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, sir, and spy! Lay bare his arm,</span><br />
+<span>And see the branded cross!&mdash;the sacred mark</span><br />
+<span>Of those <abbr>who &#8217;ve</abbr> sworn to die in Juarez&#8217; cause!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Snatches at Ignacio&#8217;s arm as if he would expose it</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> Liar and devil! do not touch me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Spy!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> The proof is easy, sire. Expose his arm!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> I scorn such proof! And with my sword <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> meet</span><br />
+<span>Who dares lay hand upon me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Justice, sire!</span><br />
+<span>Command him to lay bare his arm!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. Maximilian approaches Ignacio slowly and
+lays his hand on his arm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Turning to Marquez, his hand still on Ignacio</i>)</span><br />
+<span>You are a soldier, able and honorable.</span><br />
+<span>I trust you with my captives.... Ignacio,</span><br />
+<span>You are no traitor,&mdash;and I trust you with</span><br />
+<span>My confidence. Both are deceived. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> I</span><br />
+<span>Must study how to heal this sad division.</span><br />
+<span>... But now, <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> sign this necessary law.</span><br />
+<span>Come in with me, my friends. (<i>Exeunt all but Ignacio</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page118" id="page118" title="118"></a><strong class="i13">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Too noble soul!</span><br />
+<span>Too gentle heart! O foul, most foul betrayal!</span><br />
+<span>He dooms himself. O, Maximilian,</span><br />
+<span>We go on different ways, but each to death!</span><br />
+<span>The truest heart about thee is my own,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> a spy&mdash;death-vowed to be thy foe!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> warn the empress!... No. Sealed to the cause.</span><br />
+<span>Dead I may guard her. Death alone may give</span><br />
+<span>Me to her service. <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> no oath can bind</span><br />
+<span>The disembodied spirit. (<i>Takes paper from his pocket</i>) <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> set down</span><br />
+<span>All I have learned of the Imperial plans.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Burns paper in candle flame</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> fixed in memory, and if I live</span><br />
+<span>Juarez shall hear it all,&mdash;and&mdash;if I die&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The grave is asked no questions. (<i>Suddenly</i>) Rafael!</span><br />
+<span>This signed to-night, to-morrow Rafael dies.</span><br />
+<span>Marquez will cut off all reprieve. One way</span><br />
+<span>Is left.... <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go. With life already lost</span><br />
+<span>Who would not fling the corpse to save a friend?</span><br />
+<span>My <abbr>honor &#8217;s</abbr> bound to freedom and Juarez,</span><br />
+<span>My heart bound to the Empress and her lord.</span><br />
+<span>O, love, while I have life thou must command me,</span><br />
+<span>Then to save honor ... let me die!... Ah, could</span><br />
+<span>I save thee too, Carlotta! O, what woe</span><br />
+<span>Awaits thy heart, madonna, saint ... and love!</span><br />
+<span>Might I but say farewell before I go,</span><br />
+<span>Then I could spur to death with happy heart,</span><br />
+<span>And I must travel fast to reach Savarro.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes a lady&#8217;s glove from his bosom</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>My treasure, come!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Carlotta</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It must be signed ... it must ... (<i>Sees Ignacio</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> O, little finger casements, do you mourn</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page119" id="page119" title="119"></a>Your pretty tenants lost?&mdash;five rose-sweet nuns</span><br />
+<span>That pray at one white shrine! (<i>Kisses glove</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Advancing</i>) I hope, my friend,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> worthy of your noble love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, madam,</span><br />
+<span>In her doth Heaven on earth make sweet beginning.</span><br />
+<span>And aspirations tend her from the skies.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> And she is beautiful as good?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, fair</span><br />
+<span>As olden marble walking down to us.</span><br />
+<span>Or that immortal Helen on whose lip</span><br />
+<span>Poets still feed the dream that&#8217;s never fed!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> She must be fair indeed. I hope she loves</span><br />
+<span>As much as <abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> beloved.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, she dreams not</span><br />
+<span>Of my poor worship.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You must tell her, sir.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Ig.</strong> With her I have no tongue, and can not woo.</span><br />
+<span>To see her is to think in hurrying dreams</span><br />
+<span>That move about some new desire of God.</span><br />
+<span>Nay, <abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> the picture finished, vision complete,</span><br />
+<span>That perfect stands where dream no farther goes</span><br />
+<span>And shuts the gates to prophecy!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Would you</span><br />
+<span>But woo her thus <abbr>you &#8217;d</abbr> win her, never fear!</span><br />
+<span>We women would be beautiful, and love</span><br />
+<span>The tongue that makes us so. Go, talk to her</span><br />
+<span>As you have talked to me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> not the same.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> something in your smile inviteth speech.</span><br />
+<span>Were she but you then would I kneel and say, (<i>kneels</i>)</span><br />
+<span>O rest me &#8217;neath the heaven of your eye</span><br />
+<span>That gathers blessings as the sun his dews</span><br />
+<span>To give again to earth, and let your heart</span><br />
+<span>Throb once with pity sweeter than the love</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page120" id="page120" title="120"></a>That other women give, and yet be dumb,</span><br />
+<span>That this sweet moment&#8217;s balm may wrap my heart</span><br />
+<span>Till death bids it be still. O, love me not,</span><br />
+<span>But on my head lay thy madonna hand,</span><br />
+<span>And bless me as a mother would her child</span><br />
+<span>Who goes to death in going from her eyes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Laying her hand on his head</i>)</span><br />
+<span>And I will bless thee, too, as she would do,</span><br />
+<span>True knight of love, gentle Ignacio!</span><br />
+<span>And yet I hope you will ask more of her,</span><br />
+<span>And she will grant it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Ig.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Rising</i>) More is too much. Farewell.</span><br />
+<span>I leave the court to-night,&mdash;but go content,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Ay, happy! (<i>Exit</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He leaves the court!... What a strange youth!</span><br />
+<span>But very true and noble, and well deserves</span><br />
+<span>The fairest woman&#8217;s love. (<i>Picks up glove dropped by Ignacio</i>) <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> lost her glove.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> send it after him. (<i>Calls attendant</i>) Andorro!... Ah!</span><br />
+<span>It is my own! Yes ... yes ... the same ... here is&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>My own indeed!... And that is why he leaves</span><br />
+<span>The court!... Poor youth! (<i>She drops glove. Enter Andorro</i>) Ignacio just passed out.</span><br />
+<span>He dropped this glove. His lady&#8217;s favor maybe.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> prized. Haste, take it after him.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>And.</strong> (<i>Picks up glove</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Your pleasure, royal madam! (<i>Going</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No&mdash;that way.</span></p>
+
+<p><span class="i18">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Exit Andorro</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span>... Unhappy boy!... <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> glad I sent the glove.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Maximilian and ministers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Going to him and taking his arm</i>)</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> signed?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page121" id="page121" title="121"></a><strong class="i4">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> signed, my love. Come, friends! This act</span><br />
+<span>Of wisdom passed gives me a lighter heart!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All but Marquez go into ballroom</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> The great death-<abbr>warrant &#8217;s</abbr> signed. Ere its black list</span><br />
+<span>Be full, <abbr>there &#8217;ll</abbr> be an emperor on the roll!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>National music. Dancers seen through doors, the
+emperor and empress among them</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play2act3" id="play2act3"></a>ACT III.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act3scene1" id="play2act3scene1"></a>Scene I:<!-- . for : in original --> Before the Imperial Theatre. Brilliant
+lights. Crowd confusedly assembled. All talking.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Shouts.</strong> Long live the Empire!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Citizen.</strong> O you mob, you puppet throat, that
+whistles as you&#8217;re squeezed!</p>
+
+<p><strong>A Mob Orator.</strong> My friends, to-day we gloriously
+celebrate the birthday of the most glorious empire&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Cit.</strong> Long live the Republic! Hail to Juarez!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Voices.</strong> To dungeon with him! The traitor! Tear
+him to pieces!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards dash upon citizen and drag him off</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Officer.</strong> Don&#8217;t tell me the Republic is dead when
+a man is willing to die just to give one shout for it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Officer.</strong> Three-fourths of the Mexicans have
+hearts of that color. But the Empire stands. Miramon
+is a miracle. How does he manage it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Off.</strong> He understands the use of the bayonet.
+<a class="page" name="page122" id="page122" title="122"></a>As our friend over the water says, you can do anything
+with bayonets but sit on them.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Off.</strong> <abbr>Is n&#8217;t</abbr> this a rabble? <abbr>Motley &#8217;s</abbr> the only wear
+in Maximilian&#8217;s court. He might succeed in running this
+country if so many people <abbr>had n&#8217;t</abbr> come along to help
+him do it. You ask a French question and you get a
+Dutch answer. You give an order in Prussian and <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr>
+obeyed in Irish,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Voices.</strong> He comes! Make way! Make way! Hail
+to Maximilian!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Chief Guard.</strong> Back, all of you! The Emperor will
+greet you yonder! <abbr>We &#8217;ve</abbr> orders to clear the plaza!
+Back! Back! His carriage stops! Go, get your places!
+Out! out!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guards drive mob out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> If all the Empire&#8217;s birthdays are to be
+like this I hope it will never come of age. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> work, I
+tell you! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> dripping like a squeezed cloud!</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Guard.</strong> If it had pleased the Empire to spend a
+little of the money it has wasted to-day for the widows
+and orphans it has made&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> Sh! We&#8217;re paid for our muscle, not our
+opinions. (<i>Shouts outside</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Guard.</strong> And the mob is paid for its lungs!</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> Yes. Miramon sees to that.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Guard.</strong> Only the Emperor&#8217;s carriage approaches
+the door?</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> None but his.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Guard.</strong> If I were he I <abbr>would n&#8217;t</abbr> make such a
+glittering show of myself in that Milan carriage&mdash;all
+gold and silver and tortoise shell, and an angel at every
+corner&mdash;while there are so many hearts breaking in
+sound of it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> Ph! He knows nothing of the breaking
+hearts! Miramon sees to that.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page123" id="page123" title="123"></a><strong>2d Guard.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> have to know soon, or Juarez will
+tell him in the capital.</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Guard.</strong> Not a word! On your life! (<i>Shouts
+without</i>) Here they are! By Jesu! The fools <ins title="Original reads 'have have'">have</ins>
+taken the mules from the carriage and draw it
+themselves! Now I wonder how much a head Miramon
+pays for that!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter rabble of shouting citizens drawing carriage
+in which sit the Emperor and Empress. They are followed
+by a brilliant party of ladies and gentlemen.
+General and Madam Miramon, Princess de Varela,
+Prince and Princess Zichy, Prince and Princess Salm-Salm,
+Lopez, Count Charles, Marquez, Archbishop
+Labastida, Estrada, Berzabal, and others</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To citizens</i>) My friends, though I protest against this honor,</span><br />
+<span>I thank you from my heart for such kind proof</span><br />
+<span>Of your affection. (<i>Alights</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Voices.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Long live Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>One of the rabble, awkward and ignorant.</strong> Long
+live the President of the Empire!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Smiling</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> no objection to that title,
+friend, but I fear it would be criticised in Europe.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Crowd passes out shouting and dragging carriage</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To Carlotta, as he looks at theatre</i>)</span><br />
+<span>A noble building! Fair and magnificent!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> How yonder gardens gleam beneath the lights</span><br />
+<span>Like some soft dream of worlds we do not know!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> And all is yours, my sweet,&mdash;all planned by you!</span><br />
+<span>O love, you shall be mistress of a land</span><br />
+<span>The fairest ever smiled up to the sun!</span><br />
+<span>What say you, Charles? Does not this hour repay</span><br />
+<span>Even the <ins title="Corrected from Errata">sacrifice</ins> of Miramar?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Smiling</i>) Nay, he longs still for the old nooks and books.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page124" id="page124" title="124"></a><strong>Char.</strong> Let me admit it. This mistress Pleasure, sir,</span><br />
+<span>Though she is fair is not so wondrous fair</span><br />
+<span>As goddess Knowledge. Beautiful as bride</span><br />
+<span>To her lord&#8217;s eye is she to worshippers,</span><br />
+<span>Who seek and woo her till she yieldeth up</span><br />
+<span>Her locked virginity&mdash;the Truth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Affectionately</i>) Ay, Charles,</span><br />
+<span>Get knowledge if thou canst, and yet despair not,</span><br />
+<span>For none so poor but virtue may be his;</span><br />
+<span>And though your knowledge is earth&#8217;s silver key</span><br />
+<span>That opens man&#8217;s and nature&#8217;s heart,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> golden virtue opens Heaven and shows</span><br />
+<span>The God among his stars.... But, come, dear friends!</span><br />
+<span>Pleasure is a true goddess too. <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> show</span><br />
+<span>Her fair respect. (<i>All go into theatre but Charles, who drops back unnoticed</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He constantly unmasks me</span><br />
+<span>And knows it not. Knowledge! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> withered leaves</span><br />
+<span>Amid a world of dewy boughs! Knowledge!</span><br />
+<span>To one school will I go&mdash;one book <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> read,</span><br />
+<span>The school of love, the page of woman&#8217;s eye,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> know more than sages and divines</span><br />
+<span>Who study stars and Scripture!...</span><br />
+<span>&lsquo;For none so poor but virtue may be his&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>O noble soul, had I been true to thee</span><br />
+<span>I now could open thy deceiv&eacute;d eyes.</span><br />
+<span>Crime seals my lips. I can but pray</span><br />
+<span>This empire built on blood may stand. We are</span><br />
+<span>The creatures of our deeds, more bound to them</span><br />
+<span>Than slave to master, for the terms of service</span><br />
+<span>Are fast indentured in the soul and know</span><br />
+<span>No razure!... But I will find Aseffa! Then,</span><br />
+<span>Though sin should set a darkness on my life</span><br />
+<span>To draw each night out to a winter&#8217;s length</span><br />
+<span>That constant storms from sallow leaf to green,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page125" id="page125" title="125"></a>Still love&#8217;s sweet lamp shall light me! In my heart</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> be as day!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Aseffa veiled, her dress covered with a black
+cloak. An attendant following. She tries to cross over
+to side entrance of theatre. A guard stops her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am a singer.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Guard.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Show</span><br />
+<span>Your pass.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here, sir.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Guard signs for her to pass on. She sees Charles
+and stops. Steps before him, throwing back her veil</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You swore to save him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You!</span><br />
+<span>Aseffa! Blest&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You swore it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And would have died</span><br />
+<span>To keep my oath could I have kept it dying.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> The Emperor refused you? (<i>He bows his head</i>) Demon! Oh!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Turns to go, moaning</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) I lose her!... Stay! Is there no hope for grief?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Not mine! Can you not read it here?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Too well.</span><br />
+<span>Thy sorrow is a veil through which thy beauty</span><br />
+<span>Burns like a shrouded sun.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You pity me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> As Heaven knows!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then you will help me, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> give my life to do it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, you will?</span><br />
+<span>Then get me access to the Emperor.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> O sweet Aseffa, you ask a miracle,</span><br />
+<span>And I am sadly mortal.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I knew! I knew!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page126" id="page126" title="126"></a>My misery is your plaything!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His ministers</span><br />
+<span>So hedge him with their care&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O spare excuse!</span><br />
+<span>But I shall see him, sir! Ay, face to face!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Why would you see him? He can not call the dead.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> The dead! Thou hast but daggers for me! Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> Aseffa&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> see him! What think you?</span><br />
+<span>Should I go shouting &lsquo;murderer&rsquo; through that hall,</span><br />
+<span>Would he arise and answer to his name?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> You&#8217;re mad, Aseffa!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thank Heaven I am! <abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> be</span><br />
+<span>The shame of woman to know all that I know</span><br />
+<span>And not be mad!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You must not go in there.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Fiercely</i>) Must not! (<i>Suddenly calm</i>) Nay, sir! Why see, I go to sing</span><br />
+<span>A welcome to the noble Emperor. (<i>Throws back her cloak</i>)</span><br />
+<span>As this dark cloak now hides my gay apparel,</span><br />
+<span>So shall my gay demeanor hide my woe.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> You would not harm the Emperor?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No need!</span><br />
+<span>Yon moon is worshipped for her borrowed gold,</span><br />
+<span>Though charred and cold without a leaf to dower</span><br />
+<span>Her black sterility. So Maximilian.</span><br />
+<span>Napoleon&#8217;s favor is the sun that gilds</span><br />
+<span>His worthless crown. But now the French are going&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> What?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah! The French are going.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> And Maximilian shall fade to air,</span><br />
+<span>Unheeded as the moon no eye could find</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page127" id="page127" title="127"></a>Without her sun!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But hearts can live and love</span><br />
+<span>Though Maximilian falls.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Can live&mdash;and love!</span><br />
+<span>You torture me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Forgive me. But the share</span><br />
+<span>Must rip the glebe before the corn may spring.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> What do you mean, cold Austrian?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Austrian! No!</span><br />
+<span>Your southern sun has poured into my veins</span><br />
+<span>A life that makes me new! I feel as you</span><br />
+<span>Those throbs that shake the stars until they fall</span><br />
+<span>Into the heart and make it heaven! My lips</span><br />
+<span>Can move toward lips as haste rose-gloried clouds</span><br />
+<span>To swoon into the sun!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, yes&mdash;I know&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>You told me that you loved. But why say this</span><br />
+<span>To one who has lost all?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> have you learn</span><br />
+<span>That you must live, Aseffa, and life for you</span><br />
+<span>Means love. Your eyes, your lips, your hands, your hair,</span><br />
+<span>Like coil&eacute;d sweetness of the night, and all</span><br />
+<span>Your swaying, melting body, gather love</span><br />
+<span>As roses gather smiles, as waves draw down</span><br />
+<span>The heart-flood of the moon and hold it deep</span><br />
+<span>And trembling.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sir, your roses, waves, and smiles,</span><br />
+<span>Are poet-nothings. You play with them as shells,</span><br />
+<span>Stirring chance colors for an idle eye.</span><br />
+<span>It is your way of saying, is it not,</span><br />
+<span>That I shall love again?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You must! you must!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Such words are like bright raindrops falling in</span><br />
+<span>Another world. They glitter, but I hear</span><br />
+<span>No sound, grief has so closed my ears. Take back</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page128" id="page128" title="128"></a>Your comfort. You would be kind, but noble count,</span><br />
+<span>You talk of what a man can never know,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>A woman&#8217;s sorrow for a husband loved.</span><br />
+<span>So high no height can reach it, so great and deep</span><br />
+<span>The sea can not embrace it, and yet her heart</span><br />
+<span>Can hold it all. O strangest of all love,</span><br />
+<span>That makes her rather stoop in beggar rags</span><br />
+<span>To kiss the happy dust where his foot pressed</span><br />
+<span>Than from a throne lean down to give her lips</span><br />
+<span>Unto a kneeling king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Aseffa, grief</span><br />
+<span>Is not for you. You must&mdash;you must be happy!</span><br />
+<span>The shy and tender Dawn creeps up in fear</span><br />
+<span>That Night has laid some blight upon the world,</span><br />
+<span>But finding all is well, steps forth, and lo!</span><br />
+<span>Out of her courage the great sun is born.</span><br />
+<span>So doth the heart look outward after grief</span><br />
+<span>To find the world all dark, but nay, the light</span><br />
+<span>Is more of heaven than it was before,</span><br />
+<span>Because a face is shining from the clouds.</span><br />
+<span>You dim your loved one&#8217;s eyes in paradise</span><br />
+<span>With your earth-tears. He mourns your splendor paled,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Though &#8217;t must be beautiful to the last tint,</span><br />
+<span>As sunset clouds that bear the heart of day</span><br />
+<span>Into the night.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You but offend my grief.</span><br />
+<span>Sir, keep your flattery for her you love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> I flatter thee? It is not possible!</span><br />
+<span>Who dares to add fire to the sun, or bring</span><br />
+<span>The Spring a flower? Be angry if you will.</span><br />
+<span>The morning&#8217;s eye is not more glorious</span><br />
+<span>Rising above a storm! I flatter thee!</span><br />
+<span>When but to praise thee as thou art would put</span><br />
+<span>A blush on Poesy that ne&#8217;er has rhymed</span><br />
+<span>As I would speak! E&#8217;en thy defects would make</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page129" id="page129" title="129"></a>Another fair, and were they merchantable</span><br />
+<span>Women would buy thy faults to adorn themselves!</span><br />
+<span>O, sweet&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Shrinking in horror</i>) What do you mean?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Seizing her hands</i>) You know!</span><br />
+<span>O, all my life has been but dreams of you,</span><br />
+<span>And when I saw you first, my love!&mdash;my love!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>As lightning makes the midnight landscape speak</span><br />
+<span>The language of the day, your beauty flashed</span><br />
+<span>O&#8217;er all my years and made their meaning clear!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> you made sweet the song of every bird,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> you I found in every book I loved,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> you that gave a soul to every star!</span><br />
+<span>I can not speak it! Kiss me once&mdash;but once&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And you will understand!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What thing is this?</span><br />
+<span>It is not man, for man respecteth sorrow,</span><br />
+<span>Nor brute, for it doth speak!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O look not down!</span><br />
+<span>Thou canst not guard thee! Every silken sweep</span><br />
+<span>Of thine eyes&#8217; soft defence but whets assault!</span><br />
+<span>You shall not go! You are the element</span><br />
+<span>In which I breathe! Go from me and I fall</span><br />
+<span>A lifeless thing! Aseffa, pity me!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> I who die, not you! (<i>Drops her hands and kneels</i>) O blame me not</span><br />
+<span>That I must worship here&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, Rafael,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> live an hour to pray this wrong away</span><br />
+<span>Before I meet thine eyes! (<i>Goes. Charles grasps her cloak</i>) Beast! Claw me not!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes in. Charles gazes after her in a bewildered
+way. Tries to steady himself, and goes into theatre by
+main entrance</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act3scene2" id="play2act3scene2"></a><a class="page" name="page130" id="page130" title="130"></a>Scene II: Within the theatre. Gay decorations.
+Part of stage shown, on which chorus is assembled. The
+Emperor and Empress in royal box. Imperial cabinet
+and friends in boxes adjoining. Part of pit shown, filled
+with brightly dressed people.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To Carlotta</i>) O, this is welcome! Are you not happy now?</span><br />
+<span><abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> not a wrinkle on these smiling brows</span><br />
+<span>Where discontent may write her annals dark!</span><br />
+<span>My empire now is fixed, and strength and love</span><br />
+<span>Are gathering to my side. I can not put</span><br />
+<span>My hand out but <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> clasped by some new friend.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> And true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And true. You are too fearful, sweet.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> And you too trustful.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, we can not trust</span><br />
+<span>Too much. Brutus spoke noblest when he said</span><br />
+<span>&lsquo;My heart doth joy that yet in all my life</span><br />
+<span>I found no man but he was true to me.&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>And I would hope as much.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Aside</i>) None, none are true!</span><br />
+<span>Even I am false who fear to speak my fears</span><br />
+<span>And ease his own when I should quicken them!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Chorus from stage</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Hail, ye royal pair, O hail!</span><br />
+<span>Like two souls within one star</span><br />
+<span>May your heavenly light ne&#8217;er fail.</span><br />
+<span>Empress and great Emperor!</span></p>
+
+<p class="italic"><span>Hail to thee who ruleth mild</span><br />
+<span>As the manger-cradled child!</span><br />
+<span>Hail to her who long may be</span><br />
+<span>Guardian of us and thee!</span></p>
+
+<p class="italic"><span><a class="page" name="page131" id="page131" title="131"></a>Hail, O hail, ye pair divine!</span><br />
+<span>As two souls within one star</span><br />
+<span>May your light forever shine,</span><br />
+<span>Empress and great Emperor!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Estrada appears on stage in front of chorus</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Est.</strong> Great Majesties, forgive our feeble welcome.</span><br />
+<span>We are in all things spotted and imperfect</span><br />
+<span>Save in affection for your Highnesses.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) No, no! My friend&mdash;and friends&mdash;had you not hearts</span><br />
+<span>That turn to virtue as the flowers to sun,</span><br />
+<span>We had not made such progress to an hour</span><br />
+<span>When all the Empire wears the smile of peace,</span><br />
+<span>And we may rest like Love with folded arms</span><br />
+<span>Round his desire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> you have led us, sire.</span><br />
+<span>Pardon this mockery of what <abbr>we &#8217;d</abbr> do</span><br />
+<span>To celebrate this day had we but means.</span><br />
+<span>We shout thy name, but not above the clouds;</span><br />
+<span>We send up fires, but lightnings higher reach:</span><br />
+<span>We have adorned the city and ourselves,</span><br />
+<span>But India and the sea keep back the pearls</span><br />
+<span>We would pour here!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enough&mdash;and more, my friends.</span><br />
+<span>O, far too much! None mourn now but the gods</span><br />
+<span>Who are made indigent by this display</span><br />
+<span>Of wealth and joy!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Est.</strong> (<i>Making low obeisance</i>) We thank your majesty.</span><br />
+<span>This land shall e&#8217;er be called the happy land,</span><br />
+<span>And he who rules it&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Stepping wildly from chorus</i>) Prince of Murderers!</span><br />
+<span>The happy land! O land where widows&#8217; cries</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page132" id="page132" title="132"></a>Choke Heaven, and mothers&#8217; tears make each new day</span><br />
+<span>A flood!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Guards there! Take her away! The guards!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> No! Let her stay! <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> answer her!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Madam, we seek your country&#8217;s love.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> How do you seek it? By killing her dear sons!</span><br />
+<span>Setting your tigers loose among her children!</span><br />
+<span>Mejia from your very breast makes fire</span><br />
+<span>On patriot virtue! Dupin wets his teeth</span><br />
+<span>By day and night in infant and mother&#8217;s blood!</span><br />
+<span>Maximilian,</span><br />
+<span>In brave Trevino&#8217;s name, Salazar&#8217;s name,</span><br />
+<span>In name of all as noble and as dear</span><br />
+<span>To Mexico as they, who daily die</span><br />
+<span>Beneath their country&#8217;s flag the death of dogs,</span><br />
+<span>Shot down by your black law&mdash;signed by your hand&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>In name of him as dear to me as thou</span><br />
+<span>To that proud woman who shall know what <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr></span><br />
+<span>To clasp a ghost where throbbed her living love,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>I tell thee&mdash;die!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Leaps from stage to Emperor&#8217;s box
+attempting to stab him. As she leaps Carlotta springs
+before the Emperor</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This heart&mdash;not that!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Aseffa drops her dagger and stands bewildered. An
+officer seizes her. Utter confusion in theatre. Maximilian
+goes onto the stage. Silence</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My friends,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>All you who love me see me here unhurt,</span><br />
+<span>And you who love me not, if <abbr>any &#8217;s</abbr> here,</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Cries of &ldquo;none, none!&rdquo;</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Take aim now as you will.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Cries of &ldquo;No! no! no! no!&rdquo;</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>A Voice.</strong> Long live the Emperor! Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Then if you love me, friends, I beg <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> leave</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page133" id="page133" title="133"></a>This place of song and go to the Cathedral.</span><br />
+<span>There pray for me to Him who spared my life,</span><br />
+<span>And, if you will, pray that He yet may spare it</span><br />
+<span>To work His will and yours.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Crowd goes out silently</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To Labastida</i>) That was well done.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> Sincerity is once a diplomat.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>To Princess Salm-Salm</i>) Princess, take this poor creature to your care.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Officer releases Aseffa, who goes out as in a dream
+with Prince and Princess Salm-Salm and several ladies</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> (<i>Approaching Maximilian</i>) Your Majesty, let me congratulate&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Ill, sire?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sick, sick, O sick of compliments!</span><br />
+<span>If <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> a friend here let me hear the truth!</span><br />
+<span>What did that creature mean? The truth, I say!</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Silence</i>) You, Miramon? Lopez? (<i>Silence</i>) <abbr>Trevino &#8217;s</abbr> dead?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> He is.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And Rafael Mendorez?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Lop.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dead.</span><br />
+<span>The woman is his widow.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh!... And this! (<i>Taking out message</i>)</span><br />
+<span>This from Dupin! &lsquo;All quiet in Savarro.&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>It means&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Lop.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The town is ashes.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O God! O God!</span><br />
+<span>You ministers! Ay, ministers of hell!</span><br />
+<span>Didst think ye served the devil?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, my lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> No friend! Not one! Charles! Charles! you must have known!</span><br />
+<span>These foreign hearts have their excuse, but you&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The tower of confidence between us two,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page134" id="page134" title="134"></a>Built part by part by faithful mason hours,</span><br />
+<span>Is shaken to atoms!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I will build it o&#8217;er!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> First will the wind-strewn rose upgather all</span><br />
+<span>Her petals from the dust, and cheek by cheek,</span><br />
+<span>Hang them new-smiling on the nodding bough!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Your Majesty, what we have done was done</span><br />
+<span>To save our country and your beloved life.</span><br />
+<span>Your noble heart was blind to your great danger,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> our duty and our work of love</span><br />
+<span>To save you from your fatal tenderness.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> (<i>Kneeling</i>) O gracious sovereign, had I but known</span><br />
+<span>You did not know, I would have dared the wrath</span><br />
+<span>Of all the court, and spoken to you but truth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Lifting him up</i>) And <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> your tongue at last that broke the silence,</span><br />
+<span>I must forgive you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By your necessity,</span><br />
+<span>Your Majesty, we may all hope for pardon.</span><br />
+<span>Juarez, encouraged by the United States,</span><br />
+<span>Is roused again to war. We have appealed</span><br />
+<span>For compromise and terms of friendly union,</span><br />
+<span>But his one answer for us all is&mdash;death!</span><br />
+<span>Yet are we faithful to you, sire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O Heaven!</span><br />
+<span>What poisonous opiate have you fed me with</span><br />
+<span>And called it peace? But war is not the worst!</span><br />
+<span>Oh, Miramon, did you not swear to me</span><br />
+<span>All prisoners taken by that cruel law</span><br />
+<span>Should be reported day or night to me</span><br />
+<span>That I might pardon or remit their sentence?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> O, sir, you knew not your extremity,</span><br />
+<span>Nor could you know it though we told it you,</span><br />
+<span>The hearts of Mexicans once turned to hate</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page135" id="page135" title="135"></a>Are far too deep for sincere eyes to pierce.</span><br />
+<span>But I thank God we knew the danger, sire,</span><br />
+<span>And struck the serpent raised even at your life.</span><br />
+<span>When you, all gentleness, could not have given</span><br />
+<span>The necessary blow. Ay, God be thanked, although</span><br />
+<span>You cast me from your heart. <abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> be my comfort</span><br />
+<span>To know I served you better than you dreamed.</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> the penalty of over-love</span><br />
+<span>To suffer by the hand that (<i>kneels and kisses Maximilian&#8217;s hand</i>) it would kiss!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Must I forgive him, Heaven?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay, sir, you must,</span><br />
+<span>For his deceit was but the greater truth</span><br />
+<span>That served your blind necessity.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Est.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, sir,</span><br />
+<span>Do not desert us! If now the Empire falls</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> death to all that have been true to you.</span><br />
+<span>Juarez will give no quarter to your friends.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> The Liberals advance?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each day they&#8217;re nearer;</span><br />
+<span>And towns and provinces fall by the way.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Berz.</strong> Without you, sir, our cause will die in blood,</span><br />
+<span>And Mexico be but a grave for those</span><br />
+<span><abbr>Who &#8217;ve</abbr> loved and served you!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The United States has ranked</span><br />
+<span>Full sixty thousand men on our frontiers,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>But we have France&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am awake! At last!</span><br />
+<span>From now no man shall risk his life for me</span><br />
+<span>But I take equal chance with him! Ah, this</span><br />
+<span>Is war, not murder!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You will lead our troops?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> I will.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then Mexico is saved! The way</span><br />
+<span>To win the southern hearts is but to trust them.</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page136" id="page136" title="136"></a>Leave at your capital the foreign troops</span><br />
+<span>And lead your native soldiers &#8217;gainst the foe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) No! Never! Never! Alone with those dark hearts!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Marshal Bazaine with envoy from France,
+Comte de St. Sueveur, Marquis de Gallifet, and General
+Castlenau</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> My lord, we bring new messages from France.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Gen. Cast.</strong> Your majesty, we beg your gracious pardon</span><br />
+<span>For this unseemly pressure.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You have it, sir.</span><br />
+<span>What says Napoleon?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Cast.</strong> He greets you, sire, with my unworthy tongue,</span><br />
+<span>And sends this letter. (<i>Maximilian reads</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My eyes, I think, turn wizards</span><br />
+<span>And conjure &#8217;gainst the truth that must be here.</span><br />
+<span>For I read false. (<i>Puzzled</i>) What does he mean? Not this&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> My lord, my letters make the import clear.</span><br />
+<span>I have instructions here to counsel you</span><br />
+<span>To make immediate abdication.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> What? Abdication?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay! That is the word.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> A word for fear and weakness, not for strength,</span><br />
+<span>And Maximilian is as strong as France</span><br />
+<span>While great Napoleon respects his oath!</span><br />
+<span>His troops are ours&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, princess&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Fiercely</i>) Her Majesty!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> (<i>Sneers</i>) You prize the feather when the cap is lost?</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page137" id="page137" title="137"></a>(<i>To the Empress</i>) Pardon a slipping tongue, your Majesty.</span><br />
+<span>Those troops you speak of go with me to France.</span><br />
+<span>Such is my order&mdash;such the firm demand</span><br />
+<span>Of the United States.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Is France a province</span><br />
+<span>Of the United States? Napoleon</span><br />
+<span>Page, lackey, footboy to America?</span><br />
+<span>Is she an Empire, he an Emperor?</span><br />
+<span>Or have we dreamed he is Napoleon?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Recovered from his bewilderment</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Withdraw his troops! He can not&mdash;dare not do it!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> blister history&#8217;s page to set it down,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> his burning wish to be the star</span><br />
+<span>Of human chronicles. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not believe it,</span><br />
+<span>Though all my senses brand confirming yea</span><br />
+<span>Upon my mind. O shout it in my ears,</span><br />
+<span>And let me see the troops go marching out,</span><br />
+<span>Still <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> believe it is my eyes and ears</span><br />
+<span>That mutiny, not France turned traitor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> Your Majesty, you must believe the truth,</span><br />
+<span>And make you ready for a swift departure.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> not be safe here let a moon go by.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> If <abbr>danger &#8217;s</abbr> here, then here I stay to share it.</span><br />
+<span>Dost think <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> leave my friends to die alone</span><br />
+<span>While I by flight dishonor Majesty?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> death to stay. You would not be so mad.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Hail to our new-born king! New-born thou art</span><br />
+<span>Unto our love. Nay, we did love before,</span><br />
+<span>But now <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> worship thee.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Napoleon!</span><br />
+<span>You shall not do this monstrous thing! You shall not!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> The crown of France doth ask consent of none.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go to him and say such words that from</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page138" id="page138" title="138"></a>His shame-marked brow his outraged crown will fall</span><br />
+<span>In horror. I will go! Take out the troops,</span><br />
+<span>Bazaine. Ay, take them out! He will be glad</span><br />
+<span>To send them back and purchase with his blood</span><br />
+<span>Redemption from such shame. <abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> empty France</span><br />
+<span>To do it! I will go. But <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not kneel.</span><br />
+<span>A thousand years my blood has run through kings,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> the <em>third</em> Napoleon! (<i>Sinks, exhausted with emotion. Ladies attend her</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The traitor!</span><br />
+<span>We have no need of him! To France, Bazaine,</span><br />
+<span>And tell your Emperor our Emperor</span><br />
+<span>Needs not his fickle strength to stand upon!</span><br />
+<span>Sire, we have men, and money in our banks&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lab.</strong> A mighty church whose power is untold</span><br />
+<span>If you restore her rights, as now we hope,</span><br />
+<span>And thus united we shall defy the world!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> And Heaven, too? For that is what we do</span><br />
+<span>When we set up the church in her old wrongs.</span><br />
+<span>Nay, keep your aid, and I will keep my soul.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> Your virtuous angel strives to make you god.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> No, but to keep me honest.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Aside to Lab.</i>) Yield to him.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> not the hour to cast him off.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Lab.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord,</span><br />
+<span>Your virtue conquers, and unto your hands</span><br />
+<span>I yield the power o&#8217; the church.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I thank your grace,</span><br />
+<span>Nor for myself, but Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I go to France.</span><br />
+<span>What message have you for Napoleon?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Tell him that he has placed me here between</span><br />
+<span>Death and dishonor&mdash;and my choice is made.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Bazaine and French ambassadors turn slowly and go out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page139" id="page139" title="139"></a><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Quietly to Miramon</i>) <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> join you at the door.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt all but Carlotta and Maximilian. He holds
+out his arms, and she goes silently to his embrace</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play2act4" id="play2act4"></a>ACT IV.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act4scene1" id="play2act4scene1"></a>Scene I: Queretaro. Plaza La Cruz before church
+and convent. Grey light before dawn. Occasional distant
+firing of guns. Maximilian comes out of church
+and walks about plaza.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Carlotta! Where dost thou pray to-night? In all</span><br />
+<span>Our fearful scanning of prophetic heavens</span><br />
+<span>No swart star showed us this&mdash;our separation.</span><br />
+<span>Thou wert the all of me, the breath, the soul!</span><br />
+<span>Nature conceived thee when her blood was young,</span><br />
+<span>And May was in her spirit, but stayed thy birth</span><br />
+<span>Till Time had taught her skill in all perfections!</span><br />
+<span>... I will not weep.... Yon stars have memories too,</span><br />
+<span>And tell old tales of grandsire suns that shook</span><br />
+<span>Their locks and fell ere they were young who now</span><br />
+<span>Are eld of all!... (<i>Walks</i>) To lie so low.... O man,</span><br />
+<span>Who in the heavens carvest out redemption,</span><br />
+<span>Laying thy golden streets in very skies,</span><br />
+<span>Making the stars but eyets of thy port,</span><br />
+<span>Must thou compact thee to a little earth,</span><br />
+<span>Displace some few small tenants of the sod,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page140" id="page140" title="140"></a>And find <abbr>thou &#8217;st</abbr> room enough?... (<i>Looks up</i>) City of dream!</span><br />
+<span>Time&#8217;s far ghost inn! Eternity&#8217;s mirage!</span><br />
+<span>Desire&#8217;s dim temple fashioned out of prayer,</span><br />
+<span>Builded and jointured by no carpenter</span><br />
+<span>But captious Fancy!... O Carlotta, wife!</span><br />
+<span>Thou wert my Christian heart! Faith, faith, my God!</span><br />
+<span>Death to the unbeliever is to land</span><br />
+<span>Upon a coast dumb in the moonless dark,</span><br />
+<span>Where no hands wave a welcome, no eyes shine</span><br />
+<span>With promise of sweet hours, no voices call</span><br />
+<span>The greeting that makes every shore a home.</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Listens</i>) My officers! I can not see them yet.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes in. Enter Colonel Lopez in close talk with Lieutenant
+Garza who is disguised as an Imperial officer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Garza.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> satisfied.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lopez.</strong> This hill is the key to the city.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> Yes.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> And yours on terms we have considered.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> Escobedo&#8217;s guarantee. (<i>Gives paper</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> This to my pocket, and Queretaro to the
+Liberals!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> heavy business. You do it lightly, colonel.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> The <abbr>world &#8217;s</abbr> a feather.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> If we but think so.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> At dawn my troops are yours.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> And you command the Empress&#8217; regiment.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Yes. The pick of Maximilian&#8217;s soldiers.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> One other question. The southern gate&mdash;Hist!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> The nuns. (<i>They draw aside and converse.
+Two nuns come out of convent and cross plaza</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> The good Emperor is not out yet. He is
+often here long before day walking and thinking, <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr>
+then, they say, his mind is on the blessed Empress who
+has gone across the sea to get help for him. By day he
+<a class="page" name="page141" id="page141" title="141"></a>never speaks her name, but thinks only of our poor
+country.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> Hark! The enemy&#8217;s guns! They can not
+reach us.</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> Can not? A shell broke here yesterday.
+The Emperor stood just there.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> Holy mother! What did his Majesty do?</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> He smiled, and said he might have chosen his
+place better; then moved to the very spot where the ball
+had burst, as though he hoped another would follow it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> Blessed virgin! Would he die?</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure he would not live. Come, sister.
+Ah, we have but one loaf this morning.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> Let us be glad we can give that,&mdash;for many
+are hungry.</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> Many are starved&mdash;dead.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> But the good Emperor! It is so sad to
+think of him without food.</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Nun.</strong> He will give this to his officers. Yesterday
+I saw Prince Salm-Salm and the general Miramon each
+with a bit of white bread that can not be found in all
+Queretaro outside of our convent.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Nun.</strong> The good man! Holy Mother bless and
+keep him! (<i>They go into the Cruz</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> What will you do with Maximilian?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> Make a Liberal of him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Ha! How?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> Shoot him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Shoot him?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> Yes. The <abbr>grave &#8217;s</abbr> the great republican senate
+house,&mdash;where each man has the floor.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> (<i>Laughing</i>) And you will introduce him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gar.</strong> Hark!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> The Emperor! Go! (<i>Exit Garza. Enter Maximilian
+and Prince Salm-Salm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page142" id="page142" title="142"></a><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Greeting Lopez affectionately</i>) You&#8217;re early
+out, my boy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Your majesty, I am the officer of the day.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Yes,&mdash;I remember. Who was your friend?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Ramirez, of Dupin&#8217;s regiment.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> Ramirez! <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> much changed if that
+was he.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Shall I call him back, your majesty, that the
+prince may convince himself that his memory of faces is
+not infallible?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Nay, my trusted two! (<i>Puts an arm about
+each</i>) Would you might love each other as I love you
+both. My prince, whose courage is the very heart of my
+army, and my young hussar, dear for your own sake&mdash;dearer
+still because&mdash;she trusted you!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Blasio, the Emperor&#8217;s secretary, comes out of the
+Cruz</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Blasio.</strong> Your majesty, I have finished the letters.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Good. There will be no more to write.
+(<i>Stumbles over something</i>) <abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> this?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Blasio.</strong> A fallen Christ.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> You mean a fallen figure of the risen Christ.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Here is the crown of thorns.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Give it to me. (<i>Holds it meditatively</i>) How
+well it suits my fortunes!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> Nay&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Ay, better than my golden one. (<i>Gives it to
+Blasio</i>) Hang it above my bed. My Queretaro
+crown!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> Do not, your majesty!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>To Blasio</i>) Take it. (<i>Exit Blasio</i>) Why,
+prince, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> something to have won a crown. My first
+was given me. (<i>Firing and falling of shells</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> I beg you, sire, to move your quarters to a
+safer station. This is death at any moment!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page143" id="page143" title="143"></a><strong>Max.</strong> Death at any moment&mdash;(<i>Regretfully</i>) And I
+have been here sixty days.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Courage, sire! Marquez will come!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Eagerly</i>) Has there been news?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Not yet, your majesty.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Not yet! What does it mean? You heard
+him take the oath to bring me help or die. <abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> here
+he swore&mdash;before us all. Vowed to return with troops
+in fifteen days! Ah, he is dead.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> No, your majesty.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> But if he lives?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> He is a traitor.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> You heard his oath&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> A traitor&#8217;s oath!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> true, your majesty. His messengers are
+murdered.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> false!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> But that means&mdash;death.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> Or flight.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Not flight!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Miramon and Mendez</i>) You&#8217;re welcome,
+gentlemen. Your eyes bring news.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Your majesty, Metz has returned.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At last!</span><br />
+<span>News of Marquez! He comes! I know he comes!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Men.</strong> O, sire,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong class="i6">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The faithful Metz! Where is he?</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Metz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Entering</i>) Sire! (<i>Kneels</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Rise, sir.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Metz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O pardon me, your majesty!</span><br />
+<span>I bring but wintry news.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marquez&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Metz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Is false.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Oh, no, no, no! He comes! I know he comes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page144" id="page144" title="144"></a><strong>Metz.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> leagued with Labastida,&mdash;for the church</span><br />
+<span>Deserts you too.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> The church gone with him! No! no! I can&#8217;t believe it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Metz.</strong> You do not doubt me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not you! But in my ear</span><br />
+<span>The tale turns miracle! And I must doubt,</span><br />
+<span>Though on your tongue <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> truth!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Metz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> truth indeed!</span><br />
+<span>The troops he was to bring you from the city,</span><br />
+<span>He led for his own glory against Diaz,</span><br />
+<span>Thinking to make himself the conqueror</span><br />
+<span>And president of Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My troops!</span><br />
+<span>What then?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Metz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Porfirio Diaz routed them</span><br />
+<span>To the last man. Marquez himself escaped</span><br />
+<span>Alone,&mdash;fled unattended from the field.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> My troops! my troops!... And this is friendship! O God,</span><br />
+<span>Give me but enemies!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your Majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Who calls me majesty? <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> none in me.</span><br />
+<span>I am a riven oak whose leaf-light friends</span><br />
+<span>Fly with misfortune&#8217;s Autumn. (<i>Steps away, bowed in grief</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Following him</i>) I love you, sire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> (<i>Eagerly</i>) So do we all! Your majesty, believe us!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Canst not spare one who have so many true?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Forgive me, friends. This <abbr>treachery &#8217;s</abbr> the night</span><br />
+<span>Wherein your hearts of gold beat out like stars!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> My life is yours, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page145" id="page145" title="145"></a><strong class="i14">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thanks, dear Lopez. (<i>Takes his hand</i>)</span><br />
+<span>In friendship lies the joy superlative,</span><br />
+<span>And nearest Heaven. We touch God&#8217;s hand whene&#8217;er</span><br />
+<span>We clasp a friend&#8217;s.</span><br />
+<span class="i10">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;... But now we must take counsel.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Salm.</strong> No, sire, we must take action. Pardon me,</span><br />
+<span>But our sole hope of safety lies in flight.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> What! Leave the town to sack and ruin? No!</span><br />
+<span>Desert the poor inhabitants, so long our friends?</span><br />
+<span>And all our wounded, sick and dying? Never!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Salm.</strong> But if you stay, my lord, you sacrifice</span><br />
+<span>The living with the dying.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh, Heaven, Heaven!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> Your Majesty, this counsel is not wise.</span><br />
+<span>It is not honor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Honor will lead the flight!</span><br />
+<span>To stay were crime! Sire, give the order now.</span><br />
+<span>At once! The firing to the north has ceased.</span><br />
+<span>All night <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> reconnoitered. The way is clear</span><br />
+<span>For the last time. <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> arm the citizens</span><br />
+<span>To cover flight, and in an hour&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Lop.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> be</span><br />
+<span>Attacked on every side! A madman&#8217;s counsel!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Salm.</strong> O, sire, lose not a moment!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Mir.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lopez is right.</span><br />
+<span>To fly from death is not dishonor, but who</span><br />
+<span>That values honor throws away one chance</span><br />
+<span>Of victory?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is no chance. Not one!</span><br />
+<span>My word is fly, and <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> no coward, sire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> led our troops where every track was blood,</span><br />
+<span>And in the throat of battle, hand to hand,</span><br />
+<span>Have fought with Death! We know <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> dare a fight</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page146" id="page146" title="146"></a>As far as any man while <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> a hope</span><br />
+<span>Of victory.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not make my folly</span><br />
+<span>The captain to defeat.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Lop.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> not defeat!</span><br />
+<span>The Liberals are at their fortune&#8217;s ebb.</span><br />
+<span>They&#8217;re sick with fear, and tremble in their rags.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mendez.</strong> <abbr>Let &#8217;s</abbr> fight it out, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With starving men?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> We&#8217;re starving, but our foes are starved.</span><br />
+<span>Our ammunition fails, but theirs has failed&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>A shell breaks near them</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Salm.</strong> That, sir, unspeaks your words.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Lop.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not so. One shell</span><br />
+<span>But tells how few they are, for yesterday</span><br />
+<span>They fell in numbers. And to the north, you say,</span><br />
+<span>The guns are silent.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sire, a moment lost</span><br />
+<span>May mean the loss of all.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Dupin with two prisoners. Lopez goes to
+meet him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dupin.</strong> What did you mean by your infernal order
+to bring these men here? Don&#8217;t you know old <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">Saint-face</ins>
+won&#8217;t let them be shot?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> Keep quiet. They are my captives, not yours.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> plugged just ninety-eight this week, and
+<abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> too bad not to make an even hundred.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Approaching</i>) Prisoners?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> Deserters, your majesty. They have confessed
+it. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> brought them here for sentence. Will
+you have them shot at once, or wait till sunrise?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> None shall be shot. Not one. How often
+must we say it? If things go well here, good; if not,
+still is my conscience clear of blood. (<i>To deserter</i>)
+<abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> been with the enemy?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page147" id="page147" title="147"></a><strong>1st Des.</strong> Yes, curse the day! Your pardon, blessed
+majesty!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> How fare our foes?</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Des.</strong> The best of them as bad as the worst with
+us.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> You note that, prince?</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Des.</strong> We have a little food, but they have none.
+The country is eaten bare. Diaz is trying to reach them
+with supplies, but at present there <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> enough meal in
+ten miles of the army to make an ash-cake.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> More proof for the prince, your majesty.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Their powder fails?</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Des.</strong> Yes, sire. <abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> be all the same if it
+<abbr>did n&#8217;t</abbr>, for <abbr>they &#8217;ve</abbr> hardly strength left to stand on their
+toes and fire the guns.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Poor fellows!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Lop.</strong> You can not doubt, my lord, that we shall win
+with the next assault.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Cast fear to the winds, your majesty!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Salm.</strong> Who spoke of fear?</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mir.</strong> Not I! Fear is the devil&#8217;s magic-glass</span><br />
+<span>He holds before us to swell out our vision,</span><br />
+<span>Turn hares to lions, stones a lamb might skip</span><br />
+<span>To beetling cliffs that ne&#8217;er knew human foot,</span><br />
+<span>And slightest obstacles, that do but make</span><br />
+<span>The mind&#8217;s fair exercise and moral zest,</span><br />
+<span>To barriers, high as heaven, to success!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> (<i>Sneering</i>) And Juarez&#8217; men of rags to glittering armies!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> hazard battle.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I beg your majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> We know your courage, prince, for it is writ</span><br />
+<span>In many a scar; but you are wrong in this.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lop.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> hear no more of flight, my lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i20">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No more.</span></p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page148" id="page148" title="148"></a><strong>Lop.</strong> Then <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> to duty, knowing all is well.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Lopez</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dupin.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) And <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go find a breakfast for my
+little man-eater. (<i>Clapping his weapon</i>) <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> never
+anything to be done around his saintship. (<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> In half an hour?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Yes. The plans will then be ready. (<i>Turns to
+go in</i>) You, prince, with me. Though <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> dismissed
+your head from service, I still must have your heart.
+(<i>Goes into church with Salm-Salm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> (<i>To Mendez</i>) What do you think of it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Men.</strong> Why, sir, <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> rather die fighting than running.
+And <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> a chance for us. The Liberals are beggared.
+<abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> hardly a uniform in camp. If Marquez had kept
+true, we should have saved the empire.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Don&#8217;t speak of him! Hell&#8217;s throne is empty
+while <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> on earth!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt Mendez and Mir.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Des.</strong> Well, comrade, <abbr>here &#8217;s</abbr> promotion fast
+enough. We that were prisoners are captains of the
+field. Lead on!</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Des.</strong> Be sure the Tigre is not around. <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> got
+a long claw. Ugh! I feel shaky yet.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exeunt. It grows lighter. Guard comes out of the
+Cruz and takes station by door. Enter Princess Salm-Salm,
+Aseffa, and women of Queretaro</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> (<i>Excitedly</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Admit me to the emperor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Guard.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your pardon.</span><br />
+<span>He must not be disturbed.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh, but he must!</span><br />
+<span>The pity of it that he must!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Guard.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, madam&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> Admit us, sir, or I will beat the door!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Maximilian comes to door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page149" id="page149" title="149"></a><strong>Max.</strong> Some trouble here? The princess! Always welcome!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> But such unwelcome news, your majesty!</span><br />
+<span>You know <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> rooms at Senor Barrio&#8217;s house.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> long suspected him. Last night he lodged</span><br />
+<span>Two men whose conference I overheard.</span><br />
+<span>All was not clear, but part was clear enough.</span><br />
+<span>One of your trusted officers is false,</span><br />
+<span>And you to-day&mdash;this hour&mdash;will be betrayed</span><br />
+<span>Unto your foes.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Impossible!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, sire,</span><br />
+<span>Be blind no longer. This lady heard the men</span><br />
+<span>As I did. <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> no doubt!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Lady.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> certain, sire,</span><br />
+<span>That they were officers in the Liberal army,</span><br />
+<span>And spoke of things that set me all aghast.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Good women, I thank you, but you are deceived.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> not a man about me whose true face</span><br />
+<span>Is not the table where fidelity</span><br />
+<span>Writes him my own.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, sir, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> one whose hand</span><br />
+<span>Is in your bosom.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That much I know,</span><br />
+<span>Though I know not his name.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bold Miramon</span><br />
+<span>Is staunch as death. Mendez would in his breast</span><br />
+<span>Receive the bullet meant for me. Dupin</span><br />
+<span>Has been too cruel to the enemy</span><br />
+<span>To hope for life even at treason&#8217;s price.</span><br />
+<span>And Lopez is my own created love,</span><br />
+<span>The Empress&#8217; guard,&mdash;the only Mexic heart</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> taken a very brother&#8217;s to my own.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page150" id="page150" title="150"></a><strong>Princess S.</strong> What shall I do? This moment you must fly!</span><br />
+<span>Stand not, your majesty! <abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> be too late!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Prince Salm-Salm comes to door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Thank God, my husband! His <abbr>majesty &#8217;s</abbr> betrayed!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> never doubted me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Prince Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Betrayed?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i15">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, prince,&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Prince Salm.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> visit every post!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You but lose time.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The prince hurries out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Oh God! Oh God!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sweet princess, be not troubled.</span><br />
+<span>There is no cause.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah, we are lost!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>The bells of the city begin to ring</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You hear?</span><br />
+<span>The bells! The enemy has raised the siege!</span><br />
+<span>O joyous news!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, no, your majesty.</span><br />
+<span>That is the traitor&#8217;s signal of success.</span><br />
+<span>Oh Heaven!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What madness! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> impossible!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> Those bells proclaim that every Imperial post</span><br />
+<span>Is in a Liberal&#8217;s command. We&#8217;re lost!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter citizens and soldiers in confusion</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>1st Cit.</strong> What mean the bells?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">2d Cit.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;That <abbr>Escobedo &#8217;s</abbr> fled!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>3d Cit.</strong> Marquez has come!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">1st Soldier.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, no! The <abbr>city &#8217;s</abbr> taken!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>2d Soldier.</strong> Juarez is here! The Liberals are on us!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Confused talking and shouts continue. Re-enter
+Prince Salm-Salm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> What is it, prince?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page151" id="page151" title="151"></a><strong class="i6">Prince Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O dearest majesty&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> The worst!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">P Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> treachery. We are surrounded!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Those bells&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">P Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ring out the enemy&#8217;s success.</span><br />
+<span>Each post is captained by a Liberal.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> (<i>Calmly to princess</i>) Forgive me. You were right. (<i>To Prince Salm-Salm</i>) Who is the traitor?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>P Salm.</strong> Ask not, I beg you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His name!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">P Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lopez.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lopez? (<i>Staggers</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Unsay that word&mdash;and take my crown!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">P Salm.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, would</span><br />
+<span>I could, your majesty! It is too true!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Lopez! Carlotta&#8217;s chosen officer!</span><br />
+<span>And heaped with favors high enough to make</span><br />
+<span>A pyramid to faith!... Is this the world,</span><br />
+<span>Or some strange fancy spinning in my eyes?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>P Salm.</strong> My dearest liege&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Who would not leave a life</span><br />
+<span>Where such things be, though death were sleep eternal?</span><br />
+<span>... Lead me &#8217;mong shells and bayonets. But not</span><br />
+<span>To kill. My God, <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> blood enough been shed.</span><br />
+<span>Bid all surrender. Let no more lives be lost.</span><br />
+<span>Farewell, my prince.... Now for a friendly shell!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Just here! (<i>Striking his heart, rushes out</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Princess S.</strong> O save him! I am safe! Go! go! (<i>Exit Salm-Salm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>1st Woman.</strong> We shall all be butchered!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Aseffa.</strong> Juarez is no butcher.</p>
+
+<p><strong>2d Woman.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> Escobedo leads,&mdash;and many have
+bled by him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Aseffa.</strong> Be not afraid. I know the Liberals.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page152" id="page152" title="152"></a><strong>Voices.</strong> They come! they come!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Miramon and Dupin rush in</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Where is the Emperor?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> Emperor dunce-cap! We must look to our
+own skins.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter a score of ragged Liberals led by Rafael.
+Aseffa stares at him, speechless</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mir.</strong> Too late for that!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> You are our prisoners. (<i>Liberals take Dupin
+and Miramon</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Soldiers.</strong> Shoot them! Shoot them! Miramon and
+Dupin! The butchers! The dogs!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Raf.</strong> Hold! You are soldiers! Not murderers!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dup.</strong> (<i>To soldiers</i>) You rags and bones! Go wash
+and eat before you touch a gentleman!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sol.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> not be so nice to-morrow when the
+worms are at you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Asef.</strong> Raphael! (<i>Flies to him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> You here! O blessed fortune! My love! my love!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> O, is it true? You are alive! Alive!</span><br />
+<span>I too am resurrected, for I was dead,</span><br />
+<span>Slain with the news that you were murdered!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Raf.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> news too bitter for so sweet a moment.</span><br />
+<span>Ignacio bribed my guard&mdash;stood in my place&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And died.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> (<i>Recoiling</i>) You let him die for you?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No, no!</span><br />
+<span>He carefully deceived me. I thought he planned</span><br />
+<span>His own escape with mine.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O noble friend!...</span><br />
+<span>Juarez! He knows?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not yet.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What grief for that</span><br />
+<span>Great heart!... But you are here&mdash;my Rafael!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page153" id="page153" title="153"></a><strong>Raf.</strong> By all these kisses&mdash;yes!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These are your lips&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Your eyes&mdash;your hands&mdash;alive! I hear your heart!</span><br />
+<span>Your arms are round me, yet this is the earth!</span><br />
+<span>My country and my husband safe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Raf.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;God gives</span><br />
+<span>Some moments out of Heaven, and this is one!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter a soldier</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sol.</strong> The Emperor is captured by Escobedo!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> Not killed! not killed! Thank Heaven for that!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Sol.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> strange</span><br />
+<span>To see him stand like this (<i>folds his arms</i>) among the shells!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Now I could pity him, for he must die.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> Die, woman! Die? You know not who he is!</span><br />
+<span>Why all the outraged world would rise and raze</span><br />
+<span>This devil&#8217;s country from the face of earth</span><br />
+<span>Were Maximilian slain! Let Juarez dare</span><br />
+<span>To harm this son of kings and he will learn</span><br />
+<span>His beggar&#8217;s power is but an infant&#8217;s breath!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Asef.</strong> Good madam, you have been my noble friend.</span><br />
+<span>I would not wound you, but would have you know</span><br />
+<span>That better men than Maximilian</span><br />
+<span>Have died for lesser crimes.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Juarez with soldiers. Dawn has gradually
+opened and it is now broad sunlight</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Voices.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Juarez! Juarez!</span><br />
+<span>El Presidente! El Presidente!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My men,</span><br />
+<span>The town is ours, and with it Mexico.</span><br />
+<span>Citizens of Queretaro. I give you back</span><br />
+<span>More than your homes,&mdash;your liberated country.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Voices.</strong> Long live the Republic! Liberty forever!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Escobedo</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page154" id="page154" title="154"></a><strong>Esc.</strong> Your Excellency will see the prisoner?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> The illustrious duke? Ay, bring him here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Esc.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He comes.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Maximilian under guard</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Great duke, I grieve that I have cause for joy</span><br />
+<span>To see you thus. What wishes would your grace</span><br />
+<span>Prefer to us?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Max.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I have but one request,</span><br />
+<span>Your excellency. If more blood must be spilt,</span><br />
+<span>Let it be mine alone.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We grant it, sir,</span><br />
+<span>With two exceptions justice doth demand.</span><br />
+<span>Dupin and Miramon must die with you.</span><br />
+<span>Dupin, who put to most ignoble death</span><br />
+<span>The noblest prisoners of righteous war.</span><br />
+<span>Dark Miramon, whose cowardly ambition</span><br />
+<span>Has sunk his country in her own dear blood,</span><br />
+<span>And would do so again did life permit</span><br />
+<span>Him opportunity. And you, my lord,</span><br />
+<span>Who signed the foulest, most inhuman law</span><br />
+<span>Writ down since Roman Sulla&#8217;s hand grew cold.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> O spare him! Spare him, sir! He was deceived</span><br />
+<span>By treacherous ministers!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His ministers</span><br />
+<span>Were but his many hands, and for their deeds</span><br />
+<span>His heart must answer.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O could you know that heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Max.</strong> Dear lady, peace.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beloved majesty,</span><br />
+<span>I speak for her who prays beyond the sea.</span><br />
+<span>... O, sir, you can not mean that he must die!</span><br />
+<span>Help me, Aseffa! Help me plead for him!</span><br />
+<span>Does not your Rafael live?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Asef.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He lives because</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page155" id="page155" title="155"></a>Ignacio is dead. (<i>Juarez starts</i>) I must be just.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Princess S.</strong> What has a woman&#8217;s heart to do with justice?</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> mercy is its heavenly quality!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Jua.</strong> Is this thing true? My boy.... Speak, Rafael.</span><br />
+<span>... Tears in your eyes. You need not speak. My boy ...</span><br />
+<span>Ignacio.... Unto God I give thee!...</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> right</span><br />
+<span>That they who would be gods to others&#8217; woe</span><br />
+<span>Should be proved human by their own.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Jua.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Not hearing her</i>) And this</span><br />
+<span>Is what so many hearts have borne since first</span><br />
+<span>The Austrian came.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Princess S.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O mercy, mercy, sir!</span><br />
+<span>By your own woe show pity unto those</span><br />
+<span>Whose hearts must bleed if Maximilian dies!</span><br />
+<span>Be merciful! These tears of mine are but</span><br />
+<span>The first few drops of the unbounded tide</span><br />
+<span>That weeping as the sea weeps round the world</span><br />
+<span>Shall drink thy hated land if this good man</span><br />
+<span>Dies by your word! Be Christ, not man, and spare him!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Juarez.</strong> Madam, it is the people and the law</span><br />
+<span>Demand this expiation, not Juarez.</span><br />
+<span>I grieve to see you on your knees before me,</span><br />
+<span>But did each queen of Europe&mdash;ay, and king,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Kneel in your place, I could not spare that life.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. Sobs. Juarez signs to Escobedo, who leads
+prisoners away. Dupin&#8217;s broad hat is pulled low. Miramon
+steps proudly. At exit Maximilian turns and
+salutes the people</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Max.</strong> Mexicans! Long live Mexico!</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page156" id="page156" title="156"></a><a name="play2act5" id="play2act5"></a>ACT V.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act5scene1" id="play2act5scene1"></a>Scene I: Audience chamber, the Tuileries. Louis
+Napoleon alone.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Succeed or fail! However men may run</span><br />
+<span>The goal is marked. Yet will we race with Fate</span><br />
+<span>In forgone match. Some free of foot and hand,</span><br />
+<span>Some stumbling with huge empires on our backs</span><br />
+<span>Less certain than the overburdened ant</span><br />
+<span>Housing a winter crumb.... Victoire!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Secretary</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Sec.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> If any dispatch from the West arrives</span><br />
+<span>Bring it at once.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Sec.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, sire. (<i>Exit</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;America!</span><br />
+<span>Thou strange, new power where each man is a king,</span><br />
+<span>I have obeyed thy will. Pulled down my empire,</span><br />
+<span>Built up that France might the Atlantic stride</span><br />
+<span>And stand firm-footed in two worlds. This slap</span><br />
+<span>Upon the cheek imperial insults</span><br />
+<span>All monarchy, yet Europe shrugs and smiles,</span><br />
+<span>When she should blush to ruddy rage of war.</span><br />
+<span>... The West must go ... but here <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be supreme.</span><br />
+<span>Austria and Prussia I urge again to conflict,</span><br />
+<span>And promise aid to each, but in my dream</span><br />
+<span>They both are doomed and France shall reign alone.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Chamberlain</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Chamb.</strong> Your majesty, the Marechal Bazaine.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page157" id="page157" title="157"></a><strong>Lou.</strong> Bazaine! Admit him.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Chamberlain</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i13">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> penance night with us,</span><br />
+<span>And this man is the mirror of our conscience,</span><br />
+<span>Showing its foulest spots.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Bazaine</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sire, I salute you.</span><br />
+<span>Now Paris is the star that all eyes seek.</span><br />
+<span>The Exposition draws the world to you,</span><br />
+<span>Who glitter here as you were made for heaven.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i21">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ay,</span><br />
+<span>Here we would shine that none may see our star</span><br />
+<span>I&#8217; the West grow dark!... Now Maximilian?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> He will be shot.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No jests! I ask you, sir,</span><br />
+<span>What terms he may arrange for freedom.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;None.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> You speak not to a fool.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I trust not, sire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> You know the Mexicans. Tell me the truth.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> I know the Mexicans. He will be shot.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> God, no! That noble man!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pray, sir, what fate</span><br />
+<span>Had you in mind for Maximilian</span><br />
+<span>When finding him too true to Mexico</span><br />
+<span>For your proud aims, you sent such covered word</span><br />
+<span>To one Bazaine he could but read therein</span><br />
+<span>A revolution and the Emperor&#8217;s fall?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> I would have spared his life.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Taking out paper</i>) Then what means this?</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Reads</i>) &lsquo;France weeps no death that brings her better fortune.&rsquo;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> <abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> spy a warrant in the alphabet</span><br />
+<span>Did you but wish to find one! Think you that</span><br />
+<span>Meant&mdash;death?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page158" id="page158" title="158"></a><strong>Baz.</strong> (<i>Closer</i>) I know it.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What dare you?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anything&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>With this safe in my pocket. (<i>Puts up paper</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beware, Bazaine!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Baz.</strong> When one so mighty as your Majesty</span><br />
+<span>Is my protector?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Chamberlain</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Chamb.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Count von Ostein</span><br />
+<span>Beseeches word with you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> welcome to it.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Chamberlain</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Adieu, le marechal.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Baz.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adieu,</span><br />
+<span>Le marechal. (<i>Exit Bazaine</i>)</span><br />
+<span class="i14">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prussia&#8217;s ambassador.</span><br />
+<span>Now for our role of cheat and crowned dissembler.</span><br />
+<span>O for a throne where Truth might keep her head!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter the Prussian Minister</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>Welcome, my lord.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most gracious majesty,</span><br />
+<span>The foreign ministers have come in body</span><br />
+<span>To speak congratulations and confirm</span><br />
+<span>The triumph of the Exposition.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> They have our truest thanks. But first, my lord,</span><br />
+<span>A word in private with you. <abbr>Is &#8217;t</abbr> Prussia&#8217;s wish</span><br />
+<span>That we withhold our aid from Mexico?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Prus.</strong> A question, sire. You know that Austria threatens.</span><br />
+<span>Is France in this the friend or enemy</span><br />
+<span>To Prussia? <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> not an inch of middle ground</span><br />
+<span>To stand on. If our foe, then pour your strength</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page159" id="page159" title="159"></a>To Mexico. If friend, keep it at home,</span><br />
+<span>Ready for Prussia&#8217;s need.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To be your friend</span><br />
+<span>May cost some blood to France.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> heard it said</span><br />
+<span>The left bank of the Rhine is a fair country,</span><br />
+<span>And worth a little blood.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Enough, my lord.</span><br />
+<span>Let Prussia know she has a friend in France,</span><br />
+<span>And with your sanction cover our retreat</span><br />
+<span>From Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Chamberlain</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Chamb.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pardon, your majesty.</span><br />
+<span>The Empress of Mexico begs audience.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Carlotta? No!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Chamb.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;She presses urgently</span><br />
+<span>To enter.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here?... We sent our word to her</span><br />
+<span>At Miramar!... And yet&mdash;she comes&mdash;<abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> here.</span><br />
+<span>... Admit the deputation, and summon, too,</span><br />
+<span>Our Empress.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Chamb.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Empress comes.</span><br />
+(<i>Enter Eugenie attended. Exit Chamberlain. Enter guards</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Eug.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I hear the ministers</span><br />
+<span>Have come to us with state congratulations,</span><br />
+<span>And though unbidden, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not leave my chair&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>The co-seat of imperial dignity&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Vacant at such a time.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome, Eugenie.</span><br />
+<span>We were about to summon you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Eug.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thanks even</span><br />
+<span>For tardy courtesy.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;But we have more</span><br />
+<span>Than compliments to hear. Carlotta waits</span><br />
+<span>Our audience.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page160" id="page160" title="160"></a><strong class="i5">Eug.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carlotta! I can not see her! (<i>Rises</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Nay, it was you first cast ambitious eye</span><br />
+<span>To Mexico. Now see the end.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Eug.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Be seated, madam.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Eug.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You command me, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> We do.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Eug.</strong> (<i>Going</i>) Come, ladies!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To guards</i>) Let no one pass out!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Eug.</strong> France, sir, shall know this outrage!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When you wish</span><br />
+<span>To make it known.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter ambassadors, Austrian, Russian, Italian,
+Belgian, and others</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Rus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most glorious Majesty!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Belg.</strong> Mighty France!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">It.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Italy&#8217;s savior!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Christendom&#8217;s king!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> I thank you, my good lords; but we&#8217;re too sad</span><br />
+<span>To smile at compliments; Carlotta comes</span><br />
+<span>To beg our power to uphold her throne,</span><br />
+<span>Though Heaven has decreed her empire&#8217;s fall.</span><br />
+<span>We ask you hear our open clear defence,</span><br />
+<span>And help set forth our duty, that the Empress</span><br />
+<span>May see our wisdom through our tears.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">It.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> lend</span><br />
+<span>Your Majesty what voice we can.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I thank you.</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Aside to Austrian</i>) My lord, a word. The Prussian talons creep</span><br />
+<span>Toward Austria. France is your friend.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O, sire!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> If you would have her strong pray that no sword</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page161" id="page161" title="161"></a>Of hers be lost in Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I will,</span><br />
+<span>My lord.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Carlotta, attended by Count Charles, Count
+de Bombelles, her priest, and women. She goes to Louis
+and would kneel. He takes her hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i2">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;An Empress must not kneel.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> still</span><br />
+<span>An Empress, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Once to have worn a crown</span><br />
+<span>Is always to be queen.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sire, mock me not.</span><br />
+<span>Didst mean no more than that?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Lady, you come</span><br />
+<span>To beg your empire?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I do not beg, Napoleon.</span><br />
+<span>I come to ask you keep your sacred oath,</span><br />
+<span>But do not make a beggar of me, sir,</span><br />
+<span>Who was a princess in my cradle.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay,</span><br />
+<span>Royal Carlotta, if beggar here must be,</span><br />
+<span>See one in us who sue your gentle patience.</span><br />
+<span>While strength was ours to give we gave it you,</span><br />
+<span>But now is France grown needy of her troops,</span><br />
+<span>With Europe surging to a conflict round her.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> My lord&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;America turns baying on us.</span><br />
+<span>Should we make war on one who twice o&#8217;ercame</span><br />
+<span>Our island neighbors when she was but child</span><br />
+<span>To what she now is grown?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T would</abbr> be a folly for a clown, not king.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> America? Easier to stop her now</span><br />
+<span>Than it will be when she wears Mexico</span><br />
+<span>Like sword at her right side. Austria, Prussia,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page162" id="page162" title="162"></a>Strike you no more at neighbor throats, but come</span><br />
+<span>And win a fight for God. Napoleon, come!</span><br />
+<span>There lies a world that&#8217;s worth the price of war.</span><br />
+<span>Whose swelling breasts pour milk of paradise,</span><br />
+<span>Whose marble mountains wait the carver&#8217;s hand,</span><br />
+<span>Whose valley arms ne&#8217;er tire with Ceres&#8217; load,</span><br />
+<span>Whose crownless head awaits the diadem</span><br />
+<span>That but divine, ancestral dignity</span><br />
+<span>May fix imperishably upon it! A bride</span><br />
+<span>For blessed Rome! And will you give her up</span><br />
+<span>To ravishers? To enemies of the Church?</span><br />
+<span>To unclean hands ne&#8217;er dipped in holy chrism?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Aus.</strong> The <abbr>time &#8217;s</abbr> not ripe for our united swords</span><br />
+<span>To ransom her.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The time is always ripe</span><br />
+<span>For a good deed. Napoleon, you will come!</span><br />
+<span>And though you fail, failure will be majestic.</span><br />
+<span>Withdraw like frightened schoolboy and you make</span><br />
+<span>Your throne a penance stool whereon you sit</span><br />
+<span>For laughter of the nations. But come, and though</span><br />
+<span>You fail, when time has brought America</span><br />
+<span>To her full, greedy strength, these scornful kings</span><br />
+<span>Will then unite in desperate endeavor</span><br />
+<span>To give your great conception form and face,</span><br />
+<span>And at your tomb <abbr>they &#8217;ll</abbr> lift their shaken crowns</span><br />
+<span>And beg a pardon from your heart of dust!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Prus.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) <abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> yield to her!... Most noble lady, we&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> I speak, sir, to Napoleon.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What help</span><br />
+<span>Can Austria give?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sire, she has many troubles.</span><br />
+<span>The clouds of war threat her with scarlet flood,</span><br />
+<span>And little strength has she to spare abroad</span><br />
+<span>When foes besiege at home.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page163" id="page163" title="163"></a><strong class="i11">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And Austria&#8217;s chief</span><br />
+<span>Is Maximilian&#8217;s brother! It was not so</span><br />
+<span>That day at Miramar when three proud crowns</span><br />
+<span>Took oath to serve him in an hour like this.</span><br />
+<span>Austria powerless! And Belgium&mdash;dead.</span><br />
+<span>But France&mdash;Ah, France, she will prove noble, loyal</span><br />
+<span>To God and honor!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My honor, dearest lady,</span><br />
+<span>Permits me not to risk my country&#8217;s life</span><br />
+<span>That you may wear a crown in Mexico.</span><br />
+<span>I can not save your empire.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then let it fall,</span><br />
+<span>But save&mdash;my husband&#8217;s life!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Astonishment and silence</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;You speak but madly.</span><br />
+<span>America has sent us guaranties</span><br />
+<span>She will demand that Maximilian</span><br />
+<span>Be held but as a prisoner of war.</span><br />
+<span>The Mexicans dare not proceed against him</span><br />
+<span>Contrary to the mighty government</span><br />
+<span>That is sole friend unto their scarce born state.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> America demands with paper words</span><br />
+<span>That can be torn and laughed at. Would she save him?</span><br />
+<span>Let her demand his life with cannon turned</span><br />
+<span>Upon his murderers. Then, sire, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> trust</span><br />
+<span>To their obedience. Till then <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> plead</span><br />
+<span>With you. All hope is here.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not so, dear lady.</span><br />
+<span>Italy, Austria, and your Belgium,</span><br />
+<span>Have sent their ablest counsel to defend him.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Troops, troops, my lord, not wordy men of law,</span><br />
+<span>Are his sole need. Should God send angels there</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;d</abbr> choose but those who bear the flaming sword.</span><br />
+<span>... Here, here, my lords! Look here! His guaranties,</span><br />
+<span>In his own hand set down! Here he vows faith</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page164" id="page164" title="164"></a>To Maximilian&mdash;and to Heaven! Hear!</span><br />
+<span>&lsquo;I, Louis Napoleon, take solemn oath</span><br />
+<span>Upon the honor of a man and king&mdash;&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>Shall I go on, my lord? Have you forgot?</span><br />
+<span>Then let my tongue be as a burning pen</span><br />
+<span>To write it new upon your heart!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No! no!</span><br />
+<span>In God&#8217;s name, no!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dear lady, this is torture.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Torture for you?&mdash;for him? Then what is it</span><br />
+<span>For me, my lord?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wouldst have his majesty</span><br />
+<span>False to his country to be true to you?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Aus.</strong> The oath he took was, by the courtesy</span><br />
+<span>Of nations, subject to the change that time</span><br />
+<span>Visits on countries as on men.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> win</span><br />
+<span>His sword from me that you may use it! Sirs,</span><br />
+<span>He plays you &#8217;gainst each other as the eagle</span><br />
+<span>Sets ospreys in contention over prey</span><br />
+<span>That he may filch the prize!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carlotta!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i17">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Be warned!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> know no ease till in your capitals</span><br />
+<span>He has re-crowned the great Napoleon!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Nay&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Stop me not! Here you shall stand as bare</span><br />
+<span>To these men&#8217;s eyes as you do to my own!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> My lords, you will not let her troubled mind</span><br />
+<span>Weaken your trust in me?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty,</span><br />
+<span>We know you noble.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noble! Napoleon,</span><br />
+<span>This wondrous city is aflame with joy,</span><br />
+<span>The blazing fires now dart aloft and write</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page165" id="page165" title="165"></a>In golden light your name upon the skies,</span><br />
+<span>But in your heart will burn a torch of hell</span><br />
+<span>Unquenchable, if you deny me aid!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Dear madam, pray believe that I am helpless.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> You are as strong as France, Eugenie, help me!</span><br />
+<span>If e&#8217;er you held a dear head on your breast&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>You have!&mdash;for <abbr>you &#8217;ve</abbr> both son and husband! Ah,</span><br />
+<span>I have no child. My lord is all to me.</span><br />
+<span>O put your two in one and you will know</span><br />
+<span>What now I plead for! By the kisses dropped</span><br />
+<span>Upon your baby&#8217;s cheek, and by the hope</span><br />
+<span>That you will see him grow up at your side,</span><br />
+<span>Another self with heart-strings round your own,</span><br />
+<span>I pray you, lady, soften that stone heart!</span><br />
+<span>I kneel to you, an empress though my crown</span><br />
+<span>Has fallen, as yours I pray will not,</span><br />
+<span>And at your footstool beg my husband&#8217;s life!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Eugenie rises</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>By your child&#8217;s love, I beg you for one word!</span><br />
+<span>Help me, Eugenie, or the day will come</span><br />
+<span>When you will know a crown is but a band</span><br />
+<span>Of metal cold, and one warm kiss more dear</span><br />
+<span>Than all such circling glory! When you will grow</span><br />
+<span>Mad with the longing but to touch the hand</span><br />
+<span>Now lies in yours as it would never part,</span><br />
+<span>Strain for the face whose beauty fed you once</span><br />
+<span>Until your madness builds it out of air</span><br />
+<span>To gaze with sweet unhuman pity on you</span><br />
+<span>Yet come not near for kisses! O, even now</span><br />
+<span>I look through sealed up time unto a night</span><br />
+<span>When sleep will fly from your woe-drown&eacute;d eyes,</span><br />
+<span>And you will cry to Heaven for blessed death</span><br />
+<span>To lead you from the midnight desolation!</span><br />
+<span>Eugenie, save thyself! For thy own sake</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page166" id="page166" title="166"></a>Show pity unto me, and in that hour</span><br />
+<span>Receive the mercy that thou now dost give!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Eug.</strong> (<i>Going</i>) Help me! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> ill! (<i>Her women assist her out</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Gone! Gone? And yet a woman!</span><br />
+<span>Ah, <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> a God will suffer not this wrong!</span><br />
+<span>... Napoleon&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Nay, madam, <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> said all.</span><br />
+<span>I can not cast my country into war.</span><br />
+<span>You but fatigue yourself.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;O Heaven! Fatigue!</span><br />
+<span>Canst think of that when Maximilian</span><br />
+<span>Is facing bayonets for honor&#8217;s sake?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Believe me, he is safe!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I tell you no!</span><br />
+<span>To-day the guns from Mont Valerien</span><br />
+<span>Pealed out your glory! Your arm was in the arm</span><br />
+<span>Of Prussia&#8217;s monarch, and Waterloo forgot!</span><br />
+<span>You laughed with Austria&#8217;s chief, as though the duke</span><br />
+<span>Of Reichstadt were not dead! The bloody snows</span><br />
+<span>Of Moscow melt in Alexander&#8217;s smile!</span><br />
+<span>Edward&#8217;s in France, St. <abbr>Helena &#8217;s</abbr> a myth!</span><br />
+<span>And all the world is trooping here to feed</span><br />
+<span>Your monstrous vanity! But let the morn</span><br />
+<span>Bring news of Maximilian&#8217;s death,</span><br />
+<span>These kings will shudder from you as from plague,</span><br />
+<span>The conscious earth refuse your feet a base</span><br />
+<span>For shame to bear you! Then will begin your fall.</span><br />
+<span>Down, down <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> creep to an unpitied death,</span><br />
+<span>And winds that shriek around your exile bed</span><br />
+<span>Will cry me prophetess!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>After a silence</i>) Your audience</span><br />
+<span>Is over. Pray go and rest. You need much sleep.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> A woman sleeps not till her heart is safe.</span><br />
+<span>My eyes shall not be closed till <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> your answer.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page167" id="page167" title="167"></a><strong>Lou.</strong> You have it, lady, and we beg you leave us.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Leave! leave! O sir, it is a lie I hear! (<i>Falls at his feet</i>)</span><br />
+<span>You did not say it! See! I kiss your feet! O sir&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> (<i>Withdrawing</i>) You put us to discourtesy.</span><br />
+<span>Since you will not withdraw, we leave you.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Leaping up</i>) Coward!</span><br />
+<span>Then, Louis Napoleon, Emperor of France!</span><br />
+<span>Thou art a murderer, and I have kissed</span><br />
+<span>The devil&#8217;s hoof! (<i>Exit Napoleon</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Carlotta stands dazed, looking after Napoleon.
+Puts her hand over her eyes. Count Charles goes to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Char.</strong> Dear madam, come with me. (<i>She looks
+about bewildered</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">One of her women.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your majesty,</span><br />
+<span>We pray you come.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i1">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Strangely</i>) Yes&mdash;yes&mdash; <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go. Away!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit with her attendants</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Aus.</strong> A gloomy business, truly.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Prus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;t has</abbr> wrought upon me.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Napoleon</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> My lords, believe me grateful for your help</span><br />
+<span>In this most wretched business.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Secretary</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Sec.</strong> A dispatch, sire, from Mexico.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> hear it.</span><br />
+<span>All here should share this news with me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i18">Sec.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> short,</span><br />
+<span>Your majesty.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i5">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The sooner read. We wait.</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Sec.</strong> (<i>Reads</i>) &lsquo;By order of Juarez, the Austrian
+duke, Ferdinand Maximilian, has been shot.&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. Napoleon groans</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>It.</strong> It can&#8217;t be true!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Bel.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> false! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not believe it!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page168" id="page168" title="168"></a><strong>Prus.</strong> Grieve not, your Majesty. This is a mock</span><br />
+<span>Dispatch.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Aus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A noble archduke! Bound by ties</span><br />
+<span>Of blood and love to every court of Europe!</span><br />
+<span>Believe this not, my lord!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Sec.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Your Majesty,</span><br />
+<span>This second message from America</span><br />
+<span>Confirms the other.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> true! My God, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> true!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>It.</strong> Carlotta! Who will tell her?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;None shall do it!</span><br />
+<span>She must not know.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Rus.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pardon me, sire, she must.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> Then his death bullet has not stopped its flight.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> end but in her heart.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Count Charles. Napoleon silently gives him
+the despatch, which he reads with great agitation</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>To himself</i>) O terrible! And yet</span><br />
+<span>No news to me&mdash;to me.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i9">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>You &#8217;ll</abbr> tell her, sir?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> There is no need, my lord. Her <abbr>reason &#8217;s</abbr> fled.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> mad.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Bel.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> Heaven&#8217;s mercy!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">It.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Unhappy woman!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> She is not wild, but gentle, and thinks, my lord,</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> granted her request.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Lou.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Noble Carlotta!</span><br />
+<span>My lords, forbear awhile. <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> be alone.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>It.</strong> God grant you rest.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>All go out but Napoleon</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Lou.</strong> These kings <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> called here to a dance must lead</span><br />
+<span>A funeral. What can I say to them?</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page169" id="page169" title="169"></a>To Austria&mdash;his brother! England&mdash;his own cousin!</span><br />
+<span>To Belgium&mdash;<em>her</em> brother! Spain&mdash; O, all</span><br />
+<span>The <em>world</em>, that loved him!... An Emperor&mdash;and shot.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Musical procession passes in street. Shouts of
+&lsquo;Vive <abbr>l&#8217; empereur</abbr>! Vive <abbr>l&#8217; empereur</abbr>!&rsquo;</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>He too heard shouts like those&mdash;saw fires ascend</span><br />
+<span>To write his triumph&mdash;ay&mdash;and he is cold&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Quite cold&mdash;shot dead.... Carlotta! prophetess!</span><br />
+<span>I feel&mdash;I know&mdash;thy <abbr>oracle &#8217;s</abbr> from God!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Falls at the foot of the imperial chair</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play2act5scene2" id="play2act5scene2"></a><ins title="Original reads 'Scene II:&mdash;'">Scene II:</ins> Miramar. A balcony overlooking the sea.
+Lady Maria alone.</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Here they went out together&mdash;arm in arm,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Sweet, healing spirits to a bleeding land.</span><br />
+<span>Down yonder terrace to the sea they passed,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>He unto death, and she&mdash;to&mdash;(<i>Sighs deeply</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i7">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Without</i>) Cousin!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i16">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Turns smiling to greet Carlotta who enters carrying
+flowers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>So early out? What treasures have you there?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> The sweetest flowers that ever peeped up head.</span><br />
+<span>They grow along the path in that dear wood</span><br />
+<span>Where Maximilian took me gypsying</span><br />
+<span>When we grew weary of the world.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure</span><br />
+<span>That was not often.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;True. We loved too well</span><br />
+<span>Our work among the people to hide ourselves</span><br />
+<span>In little corners of delight. But oh, those times!</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page170" id="page170" title="170"></a>How he would catch me as I ran and say</span><br />
+<span>His little wild-girl with her flower crown</span><br />
+<span>Was dearer than his princess ermine-gowned.</span><br />
+<span>And so <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> wreathe these buds into my hair,</span><br />
+<span>And meet him as he loved me best.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes to edge of the balcony and looks to sea</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i17">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To-day!</span><br />
+<span>This blessed, beauteous day our eyes shall see him!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Drops flowers in trance of happiness</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Sweet Empress&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Empress? No! To-day I am</span><br />
+<span>His little wild-girl with her wreath of flowers.</span><br />
+<span>O, I must make my crown! Now, now, how careless!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Picks up flowers, sits and weaves them</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>You see this flower?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> very beautiful.</span><br />
+<span>What is it?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i4">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> seen it only in our wood.</span><br />
+<span>Maximilian says it grows but for my hair. (<i>Sings</i>)</span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>In a young, sweet hour of Spring</span><br />
+<span>I sat &#8217;neath an old tree to sing</span><br />
+<span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of love, only love!</span><br />
+<span>The little brook took up my tune</span><br />
+<span>And to his soft green banks did croon,</span><br />
+<span>The green grass rippled to the tree</span><br />
+<span>And every leaf shook melody</span><br />
+<span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of love, only love!</span><br />
+<span>And then the birds that flitted by</span><br />
+<span>Told it the clouds that told the sky,</span><br />
+<span>And all the world to song did start</span><br />
+<span>With what I sang but to my heart!</span><br />
+<span>Ay, all the world sang back to me</span><br />
+<span>A little maiden &#8217;neath a tree</span><br />
+<span class="i12">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Of love, only love!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Puts down flowers and goes to Lady Maria</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page171" id="page171" title="171"></a>Ah, cousin, do you think <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> be delayed?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mar.</strong> Dear madam, I fear me so.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;These ships! these ships!</span><br />
+<span>How slow their wings when they do bear our loved ones!</span><br />
+<span>The wandering treasures of our empty arms!</span><br />
+<span>The western waters must have sirens too,</span><br />
+<span>And will not let him pass.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i11">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Indeed they would not,</span><br />
+<span>Did they but know what majesty is in him.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> (<i>Embracing her</i>) O help me love him, dear.<!-- Original reads 'dear,' --> My <abbr>heart &#8217;s</abbr> too small.</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Count Charles</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> A message.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oh! a message! I do not want</span><br />
+<span>A message.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The admiral of the port has word</span><br />
+<span>The Emperor&#8217;s <abbr>ship &#8217;s</abbr> delayed.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Why, <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> not weep....</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> but a day.... (<i>Goes forward, looking out</i>) To-morrow, then&mdash;to-morrow!</span><br />
+<span>(<i>To Lady Maria</i>) Why do you weep? A <abbr>day &#8217;s</abbr> not worth a tear.</span><br />
+<span>See, I can smile!... But my poor flowers will fade.</span><br />
+<span>I plucked them all.... No more grow by the path....</span><br />
+<span>(<i>Suddenly</i>) Cousin, why wear you black?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i12">Mar.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Confused</i>) I&mdash;madam&mdash;I&mdash;</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Such sable hues for this so rosy day?</span><br />
+<span>Go dress your body like our happy hearts!</span><br />
+<span>Dost think a coffin comes across the sea?</span><br />
+<span>A coffin&mdash;(<i>Shudders</i>) Go! I can not bear this black!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Lady Maria</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span>I am displeased. Have I not reason, Charles?</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> very wrong of her to dress in black</span><br />
+<span>When Maximilian comes. I will go in.</span><br />
+<span><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> tired&mdash;but I am very happy. Ah! (<i>Exit</i>)</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page172" id="page172" title="172"></a><strong>Char.</strong> O wounded heart! Thus every day she hopes,</span><br />
+<span>And every day begins her hope anew.</span><br />
+<span>It is my penance now to watch her sorrow,</span><br />
+<span>To guard perfection&#8217;s wreck in her sad body,</span><br />
+<span>And hear the name of Maximilian fall</span><br />
+<span>Each moment from her lips. O, God, remember</span><br />
+<span>When once I am in hell, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> suffered here!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Carlotta</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> I can not stay away. This is my place.</span><br />
+<span>Here will I catch the first light on his sail.</span><br />
+<span>O Charles, dear Charles, to-morrow we shall see him!</span><br />
+<span>Look in his noble eyes,&mdash;ah me, what eyes!</span><br />
+<span>Dost not remember? Talk of him, cousin.</span><br />
+<span>It brings him faster to me. My heart! my heart!</span><br />
+<span>This waiting breaks it though <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> but a day!</span><br />
+<span>An hour that keeps him from me lengthens like</span><br />
+<span>The drawn out ages &#8217;tween the ends of time!</span><br />
+<span>But oh, to-morrow! Let me think of that!</span><br />
+<span>Then will the small globe of mine eye contain</span><br />
+<span>The wide and complete world of my desires!</span><br />
+<span>... Have you forgot Aseffa? You do not speak;</span><br />
+<span>But you have not forgot. She said&mdash;Oh, cruel!&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>That he, my Maximilian, should lie cold</span><br />
+<span>While yet my arms were warm and reaching for him.</span><br />
+<span>How could she say it? But you stood by him&mdash;you&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>His faithful friend. You knew <abbr>&#8217;t would</abbr> ne&#8217;er be true!</span><br />
+<span>... Do you remember, Charles, the winter day</span><br />
+<span>He climbed to Valtelina&#8217;s ice-bound huts</span><br />
+<span>To bear the starving people food?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i14">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes&mdash;yes!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> my sole virtue to remember his!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> And when the flooding Ambro left her banks,</span><br />
+<span>Rolling a very sea o&#8217;er farm and town,</span><br />
+<span>Who was the first to ride the dangerous waves,</span><br />
+<span>A rescuing angel saving man and child?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page173" id="page173" title="173"></a><strong>Char.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr> Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i10">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Yes, our Maximilian.</span><br />
+<span>I feared the Mexicans would take his life.</span><br />
+<span>Was not that foolish, cousin? I should have known</span><br />
+<span>God could not spare him from His world. Hast heard</span><br />
+<span>The men of Licio tell how he was first</span><br />
+<span>To bring them aid when all their silkworms died</span><br />
+<span>And silence struck the looms that gave them food?</span><br />
+<span>This man will say &lsquo;I have a son alive</span><br />
+<span>Because of Maximilian!&rsquo; And that will say</span><br />
+<span>&lsquo;I have a daughter now to tend my age,</span><br />
+<span>Because the Lombard governor brought bread</span><br />
+<span>Unto her cradle.&rsquo;... And he is coming back.</span><br />
+<span>... Beautiful Miramar! <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> never leave thee,</span><br />
+<span>Though stars should beckon to a golden world!</span><br />
+<span>To-morrow <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> come! Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Holds out her
+arms toward the sea, looking radiantly into distance</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span class="i17">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Charles! (<i>Turns suddenly, laying her hand on his arm</i>)</span><br />
+<span>Look! What men are those? Do you not see them?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Char.</strong> <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> nothing, cousin,&mdash;nothing but the sea.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> Oh, look! They wear the Mexican dress!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Come in,</span><br />
+<span>Sweet princess!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i6">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah yes, they&#8217;re Mexicans.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i19">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Come!</span><br />
+<span><abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> had some fever. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> a sick-room vision.</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Car.</strong> No, no! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> well! Ah, never in such health!</span><br />
+<span>I see like God! O look! A score of them!</span><br />
+<span>Moving but silent as death! Where are they marching?</span><br />
+<span>The sun gleams on their guns! O see, Charles, see!</span><br />
+<span>There is a prisoner! Poor man! poor man!</span><br />
+<span>I can not see his face. He walks most sadly,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And proudly too! An upright soul, I know!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page174" id="page174" title="174"></a><strong>Char.</strong> Dear cousin, come away!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i13">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> humbly dressed,</span><br />
+<span>And but for that <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> think he might be royal,</span><br />
+<span>Ah, royal as Maximilian! O Charles,</span><br />
+<span>I am so glad <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> safe upon the sea!</span><br />
+<span>Safe&mdash;safe&mdash;and coming to me!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i3">Char.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<i>Most pleadingly</i>) Come, wait within,</span><br />
+<span>Dear princess! Come!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong class="i8">Car.</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I will not leave him! No!</span><br />
+<span>The poor, sad prisoner! Those cruel weapons!</span><br />
+<span>I fear&mdash;I fear&mdash;he is condemned to die.</span><br />
+<span>... Perhaps he has a wife. Ah me, I pray not.</span><br />
+<span>Then would be tears! He is a noble man,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>But still his face is from me.... They reach the field.</span><br />
+<span>The soldiers halt and lift their guns. O how they gleam!</span><br />
+<span>... I can not see.... Why is the face so dim?</span><br />
+<span>Will no one save him? Let us pray for him!</span><br />
+<span>We can do that! Down on our knees and pray!</span><br />
+<span>O men, men, men! What sin beneath the sun</span><br />
+<span>Can give excuse for such a deed as this?</span><br />
+<span>O, Heaven, are you looking too? A man</span><br />
+<span>So noble! Oh, he turns&mdash;he turns&mdash;his breast</span><br />
+<span>Is to the weapons! Now they fire! He falls!</span><br />
+<span>His face! (<i>Gives a wild cry</i>) Oh God! <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> Maximilian!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>Falls forward on her face</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h2><a class="page" name="page175" id="page175" title="175"></a>THE POET</h2>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page176" id="page176" title="176"></a></p>
+
+<table summary="">
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a class="page" name="page177" id="page177" title="177"></a><a href="#play3act1">ACT I.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act1scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Helen&#8217;s room, Truelord house, New York.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play3act2">ACT II.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act2scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Exterior of Clemm cottage, near Richmond.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play3act3">ACT III.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act3scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Interior of Clemm cottage.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act3scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>The Same.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play3act4">ACT IV.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act4scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>An old book store, New York.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act4scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>Poe&#8217;s cottage, Fordham.</td></tr>
+<tr><th colspan="2"><a href="#play3act5">ACT V.</a></th></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act5scene1">Scene 1.</a></td><td>Poe&#8217;s lodging, Baltimore.</td></tr>
+<tr><td class="sc"><a href="#play3act5scene2">Scene 2.</a></td><td>A bar-room.</td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page178" id="page178" title="178"></a>CHARACTERS</h3>
+
+<p><span><em class="sc">Edgar Allan Poe</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Virginia Clemm</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Mrs. Maria Clemm</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Helen Truelord</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Mrs. Truelord</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Roger Bridgmore</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Nelson Clemm</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Mrs. Delormis</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Doctor Barlow</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Mrs. Schmidt</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">George Thomas</em>, Barkeeper</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Haines</em>, <em class="sc">Juggers</em>, <em class="sc">Sharp</em>, <em class="sc">Black</em>, gamblers</span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Bookseller</em></span><br />
+<span><em class="sc">Mum Zurie</em>, <em class="sc">Tat</em>, <em class="sc">Bony</em>, servants at Clemm cottage.</span><br />
+<span>Gertrude, Mabel, Annie, Sallie, Dora, Gladys, Ethel, Alma, Allie, friends of Virginia.</span></p>
+
+<p class="play"><a class="page" name="page179" id="page179" title="179"></a>THE POET</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play3act1" id="play3act1"></a>ACT I.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act1scene1" id="play3act1scene1"></a>Scene: Room in the Truelord House. Helen lies on a
+couch before large windows, rear, reading by light from
+a small lamp on table near couch. She wears a loose
+robe over night-dress.</p>
+
+<p class="italic">A light knock is heard at door, left centre.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Sitting up</i>) Mamma?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Voice.</strong> Yes, dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Kissing book and closing it</i>) Good-bye, my
+poet! (<i>Drops book on couch and goes to door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Voice, as Helen opens door.</strong> I saw your light. (<i>Enter
+Mrs. Truelord</i>) Forgive me, love. I could not rest.
+(<i>Helen is closing door</i>) No! Kate is coming.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Delormis.</strong> (<i>In door</i>) Yes, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> here, too, Helen.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Come in, Cousin Catherine.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>All three advance</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Madela had a feminine version of the jim-jams&mdash;tea-nerves,
+you know&mdash;so must get us both up.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page180" id="page180" title="180"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Drawing forward a huge chair for Mrs.
+Truelord while Mrs. Delormis takes a smaller one</i>) I
+was not in bed.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Looking toward bed in alcove, right</i>)
+But you have been! You could not sleep either. Ah!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Sighs deeply</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Goes to couch</i>) Now, mamma!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Embarrassed by Helen&#8217;s <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">straightforward</ins>
+look</i>) Helen&mdash;I&mdash;<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> just got to have it out
+to-night. You are only my step-daughter, but <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr>
+loved you like my own.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Quaintly</i>) Yes.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> <abbr>Have n&#8217;t</abbr> I always treated you as if you
+were my daughter born?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Slowly</i>) You have indeed!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> And I can&#8217;t bear for you to&mdash;to&mdash;O, I
+just can&#8217;t bear it, I say!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Bear what, mamma?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> This&mdash;this man&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Edgar Poe, Helen.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> You are going to give up Roger&mdash;Roger
+who has worshipped you since you were a baby, who has
+lived under the same roof and been a brother to you
+since you were two years old&mdash;you are going to give him
+up for a strange man&mdash;a man without a penny&mdash;a man
+you have seen but once&mdash;(<i>Almost shrieking</i>)&mdash;but once&mdash;(<i>Rising</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Crosses, and stands before her, speaking
+calmly</i>) We know angels at first sight, mamma.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Grabbing Helen by the shoulders and
+staring at her</i>) You have done it already! (<i>Falls to
+chair as if fainting</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Soothe her, Catherine. I will get some wine.
+(<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Sitting up, at once recovered</i>) <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr>
+<a class="page" name="page181" id="page181" title="181"></a>made up her mind. When her eyes shine like that <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> no
+use to argue. And all of Roger&#8217;s fortune in Mr. Truelord&#8217;s
+hands! <abbr>We &#8217;ve</abbr> considered it a family resource for
+years!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> What a fool Roger was to bring Edgar
+Poe to the house!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> crazy about the man. Says <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> a
+genius, and all that stuff.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Well, he is. But to introduce him to a
+girl like Helen! <abbr>They &#8217;ll</abbr> be off before morning!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> Oh-h! Don&#8217;t, Kate! Roger actually
+wants me to ask him to stay in the house.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Idiot! He deserves to lose her.... But
+your guest! (<i>Laughs</i>) Poor Madela! How he would
+upset your nice, comfortable theories of life! Why, you
+<abbr>could n&#8217;t</abbr> hand him a cup of tea without feeling the planet
+quake.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> But what are we to do? Kate, you <em>must</em>
+help me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> going to. You can&#8217;t tell her father,
+because Helen must be persuaded, not opposed. And
+don&#8217;t speak about the money. If she loved a beggar she
+would trudge barefoot behind him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Despairingly</i>) O, don&#8217;t I know it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Now you leave this to me, Madela. I will
+say a few things to Helen about meeting Mr. Poe in
+Europe&mdash;and&mdash;you know&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Kissing her violently</i>) O, Kate! Tell
+her all&mdash;and more, if necessary! Don&#8217;t think about
+your reputation if you can save Roger&#8217;s fortune&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Sh!&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Helen, with wine and a glass</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> (<i>Feebly</i>) Thank you, dear, but <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> better
+now. (<i>Rising</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> try to rest. (<i>Goes to door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> I would see you to your room, mamma, but
+<a class="page" name="page182" id="page182" title="182"></a><abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure you would rather have Catherine. (<i>Mrs. Delormis
+makes no move to go</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Tru.</strong> O, I am quite well&mdash;I mean&mdash;I need no
+one&mdash;no one at all! Goodnight, my dears! (<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Politely</i>) And is there anything which you
+must have out to-night, cousin Catherine?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Sit down, Helen. (<i>Helen takes a chair</i>)
+You have never loved me, but I have always had a warm
+heart for you, little girl. And you will take a warning
+from me in good part, won&#8217;t you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> A good warning, yes.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> I told you about meeting Mr. Poe last
+summer in Normandy. But&mdash;I did not tell you how
+often I met him. (<i>Helen rises, then Mrs. Delormis rises</i>)
+Helen, I prove my love for you by saying what it is so
+hard to utter to your pure self. My life has not been&mdash;all
+you would wish it to be&mdash;and Mr. Poe knows more
+about it than any other man.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> You lie! I have seen his soul!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>She goes to door and opens it for Mrs. Delormis to
+pass out. Mrs. Delormis sweeps through with an attempt
+at majesty</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Motionless with clenched hands</i>) Wicked,
+wicked woman!... (<i>Goes to window, rear, opens it,
+draws long breaths as if stifling, and turns back into
+room</i>) Edgar! My love! I was a thing of clay. One
+look from your eyes has made me a being of fire and air....
+(<i>Lies down on couch and takes up her book</i>) ...
+I can not read ... or sleep ... or pray. <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> too
+much whirling in my heart for prayer.... (<i>Starts</i>)
+What moan is that?... (<i>Rises, takes light from table,
+goes to window, leans out, casting the rays down</i>)
+Nothing.... <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> fanciful.... The moon is rising. (<i>Goes
+back, putting light on table</i>) O, Edgar! God help me
+to be what love must be to thee. Love that can look
+<a class="page" name="page183" id="page183" title="183"></a>on miracles and be sane. What a face when he said
+goodnight! Like an angel&#8217;s whose immortality is his
+wound.... Poor Roger!... What will my father
+say?... (<i>Moonlight floods the window</i>) Welcome,
+soft nurse of dreams! (<i>Extinguishes lamp</i>) A little
+rest.... Ah, I know <em>he</em> does not sleep.... (<i>She
+lies on couch in the moonlight, her eyes closed. Poe
+enters by window, gazes at her, and throws up his arms
+in gesture of prayer</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Looking up, and springing to her feet</i>) Edgar!
+My God, you must not come here!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Is this love&#8217;s welcome?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Go! go!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I was dying out there.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Leave me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Life was passing from my veins. Only your
+eyes could draw back the ebbing flood.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> I will light the lamp! (<i>Turns hastily</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And put out Heaven&#8217;s! (<i>She drops her hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Go, O go at once!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Again I am alone! The twin angel who put
+her hand in mine is flown!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Edgar, be calm!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Calm! With such a look from you burning
+me as if I were a devil to be branded? Such words from
+you hissing like snakes through my brain?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> O, I beg you&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I would but touch the hand that soothes my
+blood&mdash;look in the eyes that wrap my soul in balm&mdash;and
+you cry out as though some barbarous infidel had trampled
+you at prayers!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> My father&mdash;Roger&mdash;they will not understand.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, you would bring the world in to say how
+and when we shall love! Take note of the hour, and
+kiss by the clock! Great love is like death, Helen. It
+<a class="page" name="page184" id="page184" title="184"></a>knows no time of day. If a man were dying at your
+gates would you keep from him because <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> midnight
+and not noon, and you were robed for sleep? It was
+your soul I sought. Must you array that to receive me?
+O, these women! On Resurrection day <abbr>they &#8217;ll</abbr> not get
+up unless their clothes are called with them from the
+dust! &lsquo;Excuse me, God, and send a dressmaker!&rsquo; Ha!
+ha! ha! (<i>Walks the floor in maniac humor</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Edgar, for love&#8217;s sake hear me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Speak loud if you would drown the winds!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Listen!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Turning upon her</i>) If my body bled at your
+feet you would stoop to me, but when my spirit lies in
+flames you cry &lsquo;Don&#8217;t writhe! Don&#8217;t be a spectacle!&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Putting her hands on his shoulders and speaking
+steadily</i>) The spirit does not murmur. Only the
+body cries.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Calming</i>) Forgive me, Helen!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes, love. (<i>Draws him to couch and sits by
+him soothingly</i>) ... O, your forehead is on fire.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No wonder, when I have just come out of hell.... Keep
+your cool hand over my eyes.... O, this
+is peace!... (<i>Takes her hand from his forehead and
+holds it</i>) I made you a song out there, in the darkness.
+I was fainting for one gleam of light when you opened
+the window and stood as beautiful as Psyche leaning to
+the god of love. Listen ... and believe that my heart was
+as pure as the lines. (<i>Sings softly</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Helen, thy beauty is to me</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Like those Nicean barks of yore</span><br />
+<span>That gently o&#8217;er a perfumed sea</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;The weary, wayworn wanderer bore</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;To his own native shore.</span></p>
+
+<p class="italic"><span><a class="page" name="page185" id="page185" title="185"></a>On desperate seas long wont to roam,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Thy hyacinth hair, thy classic face,</span><br />
+<span>Thy Naiad airs, have brought me home</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;To the glory that was Greece</span><br />
+<span>And the grandeur that was Rome.</span></p>
+
+<p class="italic"><span>Lo, in yon brilliant window-niche</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;How statue-like I see thee stand,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;An agate lamp within thy hand,&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>Ah! Psyche, from the regions which</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Are holy-land!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Drops his head to her hand and kisses it gently</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Edgar, my life shall be my song to thee. (<i>They
+are silent for a second. His hand touches her book</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> A book! Who could write for such an hour?
+(<i>Holds book in moonlight</i>) Shelley! Lark of the world!
+You would know!... You will give me this book, Helen?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> It is precious. You will love it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Always! (<i>Kisses book, and puts it inside his
+coat. Taking her hand</i>) O, all our life shall be a happy
+wonder! Wilt lie with me on summer hills where pipings
+of dim Arcady fall like Apollo&#8217;s mantle on the soul? Dost
+know that silence full of thoughts?&mdash;and then the
+swelling earth&mdash;the throbbing heaven? Canst be a
+pulse in Nature&#8217;s very body? (<i>Leaping up</i>) Take forests
+in thy arms, and feel the little leaf-veins beat thy
+blood?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) Yes&mdash;yes&mdash;I know. Come to the
+window, love. The soft Spring air begins to stir.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>They move to window</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, what a night! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> like a poem flowing to
+the sea. Here I shake death from my garments. Oh,
+had my soul a tongue to trumpet thought, men from yon
+planets now would stare and lean to earth with listening
+<a class="page" name="page186" id="page186" title="186"></a>ears!... Hark! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> music!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Looking down</i>) A serenade.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Canst call it that? I hear nothing that comes
+not from the stars. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> Israfel! The angel whose lute
+is his own heart!</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;If I could dwell</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Where Israfel</span><br />
+<span class="i2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hath dwelt, and he where I,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;He might not sing so wildly well</span><br />
+<span>A mortal melody,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;While a bolder note than his might swell</span><br />
+<span class="i2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From my lyre within the sky!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>Some day we shall live there, Helen, and then I will sing
+to thee!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> But now&mdash;my love&mdash;you must rest&mdash;you must
+sleep.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Sleep! Nothing sleeps but mortality!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> And you are mortal, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I! Nay, thy love has given me kinship with
+the deities! Sleep? Ay, when Nature naps, and God
+looks for a bed! When yonder moon forgets her starry
+whirl and nodding falls from heaven! When Ocean&#8217;s
+giant pulse is weary and grows still! When Earth heaves
+up no seasons with their buds! No, no, we will not
+sleep! But see&mdash;there gleams the river&mdash;and yonder
+rise the hills touched new with Spring! Wilt go there
+with me, Helen? Now!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Now?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> To-night!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> To-night?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Why not? You say it as though night and
+day were not the same to the soul&mdash;except that night is
+more beautiful! Why not go?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page187" id="page187" title="187"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> I will tell you, love. (<i>Drawing him back to the
+large chair</i>) Come, listen. (<i>She sits in chair, and he
+kneels by her, the moonlight covering them</i>) Because I
+love you more than you love beauty, God or night, and
+you must live for me. And to live means&mdash;rest&mdash;sleep&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do you love me so much? O, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> like cool
+waters falling about me to hear you say it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> I will help you, Edgar. Already I feel my
+strength. Where I may serve you <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not meekly go,
+but go exultant. The thorns and stones so harsh to
+human feet, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> press as they were buds, and leave my
+blood for kisses.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Oh, go on.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> more to tell you. It is&mdash;that you
+must help me, too. To-day&mdash;before you looked at me
+the first time&mdash;I was dying. Ah, more,&mdash;I was about to
+set the seal of death on my soul. My mother, who died
+at sea when I was born, gave me a heritance with winds
+and waves and stars. But I was nursed by hands
+through whose clay ran no immortal streams. Cradled
+in convention, fed on sophistries, I wove a shroud about
+my soul, and within that hardening chrysalis it was
+dying away when you called it forth in time to live&mdash;dear
+God, in time to live! Now you see how much you
+are to me, Edgar. I must not lose you. But you must
+be careful and patient with me, for my newly-bared soul
+shrinks from the wonders so familiar to you, and I may
+fly back to my chrysalis to escape the pain.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I am not afraid. Would a mother leave her
+babe? And I am a child now, Helen. This strange, new
+rest you give me is like a gentle birth. I have been old
+all my life. Now the longing comes for a little of the
+childhood that was never mine. The years fall from me,
+and I have no wish but to lie on a mother&#8217;s bosom and
+hear her voice prattling above me.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page188" id="page188" title="188"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Archly, leaning over him as he sits at her feet</i>)
+Does my little boy want a story?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Smiling</i>) About the fairies, mama?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> About the fairies&mdash;and a big giant&mdash;and a
+little girl lost in a wood&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And a little boy too?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes, a little boy, too! And the little girl was
+crying&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And the little boy found her?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes, and he told her not to cry, that he could
+kill the big giant, and he hid the little girl in a cave&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Was it a dark cave, mama?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> No-<em>o-o</em>! It was a cave&mdash;with&mdash;windows in it!
+And by and by he heard the giant coming&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Oh! (<i>Hides his face on her breast. She holds
+him to her, her hands on his hair</i>) And when the little
+boy heard the leaves rustling closer and closer he climbed
+a great tree&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Lifting his head</i>) But he <abbr>was n&#8217;t</abbr> afraid,
+mama?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> O, <em>no-o</em>!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Because that little boy was me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes. And when you got to the top of the tree&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, what did I do then?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Why, you see this was the biggest giant that
+<em>e-v-e-r</em> lived&mdash;and his head was just as high as the top of
+the tree&mdash;so when he came by&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I know! I know! I just out with my sword,
+and off went his head!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> So it did! And then you climbed down from
+the tree&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And the little girl came out of the cave&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> And you went off together happy ever after!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> What was that little girl&#8217;s name, mama?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page189" id="page189" title="189"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> Why, I don&#8217;t think you ever told me that, did you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I was just thinking&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> What, darling?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> That I wish you <abbr>were n&#8217;t</abbr> my mama, so you
+could be that little girl!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> O, I can, dear. For there were the fairies. We
+forgot the fairies. They gave me this pretty ring, so that
+when I put it on I can be whoever I please, and I please
+to be just whoever my little boy likes best.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rises, and speaks in his own manner</i>)
+Madonna, Oh, Madonna! You will save me. (<i>Kisses
+her forehead</i>) Good-night. To-morrow I will tell you
+about my work&mdash;our work. There are miracles yet to
+be. And Poesy shall speak them.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> But do not try to write out all your soul,
+Edgar. That cannot be. Poetry is but one gate. The
+soul goes out by a thousand ways.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> True. And we will find those ways together,
+Helen. We will gather truth in every path,&mdash;truth that
+flowers out of the struggle and carnage of life like the
+bloom of song on the crimson of war.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> But we may not know all. Man&#8217;s greatest
+knowledge is but the alphabet of the eternal book. We
+must be content with the letters, and not unhappily
+strive to read.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I will remember. But what mortal can attain
+shall be mine. Already thoughts that fled my agony
+come to me as gently as the alighting of birds. Truths
+open about me like the unfolding of roses yet warm with
+God&#8217;s secret. Good-night. (<i>Takes her hand</i>) I am not
+the greatest genius, Helen, for I can not stand alone.
+(<i>Drops her hand and goes to window. Hesitates and
+turns back</i>) One kiss. (<i>Kisses her</i>) O, look at me!
+I lose divinity when you close your eyes! Look at me,
+and I can not fall for Heaven bears me up!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page190" id="page190" title="190"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>In sudden alarm</i>) I hear a step!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Looking at her reproachfully</i>) Listen better,
+you will hear God&#8217;s footfall.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Some one is up.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And do you care? Would you put a stain upon
+this hour? This flower of love <ins title="Corrected from Errata">blown</ins> perfect from the skies?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Ah, it is gone.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Wildly</i>) O, you will leave me, Helen! You
+can not stay! For I will play the madman to thy sense
+when I am sanest, and like a shivering Atlas shake thy
+world when most thou wouldst be still. This body
+wraps more lives then one, my girl. When I was born
+no pitying angel dipped my spirit-fire in Lethe. I weep
+with all the dead as they my brothers were, and haunt
+the track of time to shudder with his ghosts. Wilt fare
+with me, brave Helen? Wilt tread the nadir gloom and
+golden paths of suns? Canst gaze with me into the fearful,
+grey infinitude&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> That grey infinitude is yet the circle of your
+being. The mind can not leave itself. You are always
+in your own country. Why should you fear?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> The mind that can not leave itself knows nothing.
+Not the &lsquo;I am&rsquo; but &lsquo;Thou art&rsquo; is God. O, there is
+a realm of which imagination is but a shadow&mdash;where
+the mind is burnt away in His vision&#8217;s fire, and thought
+becomes celestial angel of itself! And you turn back
+with the first step&mdash;already I am alone&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> No! I, too, have hung upon the boundaries
+of the world to catch God&#8217;s flying dreams! O,
+trust me! Thou shalt fling no lance but I will cast it on
+to gleam in a farther sun! Bring me roses from Jupiter,
+<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> bring thee lilies from Uranus! O,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Mine, by Heaven! (<i>Catches her to him</i>)
+Here <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> begin the immortal pilgrimage! We need not
+wait for death! From world to world&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><span><a class="page" name="page191" id="page191" title="191"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Springing from him</i>) It <em>is</em> a step!</span><br />
+<span>Go, Edgar! Go!</span></p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No! By the god in my bosom, you are mine
+from this moment!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> My father! my father! He will tear me from
+you&mdash;You do not know him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I know <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> mortal. Heaven could not part
+us. I will not move!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>He is standing in the window. She hastily draws
+the curtain before him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Then keep your word!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>A knock at the door. Helen is silent</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Voice.</strong> Helen?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> It is you, Roger? Come in.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Roger enters, carrying a lamp. Looks about and
+sees Helen.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Rog.</strong> I heard voices.... Who was with you, Helen?...
+I could not be mistaken.... (<i>puts lamp on
+a table, and comes nearer Helen.</i>) Look at me, Helen....
+I am your brother. Who was here?... I know
+that Love has laid his mighty hand upon you, but
+yet you are an angel. I thought&mdash;it was&mdash;his voice....
+Tell me what this means.... <em>He</em> was not here!
+O, I shall die when I learn that you are but a woman!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Leaping out</i>) I am here, sir, to defend that
+lady&#8217;s honor!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Rog.</strong> (<i>Staggers back, regains composure, and bows
+ironically</i>) I rejoice to hear it, sir, for you alone can do
+it. It is wholly in your keeping. (<i>Turns to go</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Roger!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Rog.</strong> Madam.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> You forsake me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Rog.</strong> You have forsaken yourself.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Oh! (<i>Swoons. Poe bends over her wildly
+affectionate. Roger stands apart, proud and despairing</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page192" id="page192" title="192"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> Helen! Speak! Speak to me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Leave me! Leave me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> It is I, Helen! Your lover! Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> You, you, I mean! (<i>Rising</i>) Thou wing of
+hell across my life! Away from me!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe stands back speechless with bewilderment.
+Roger goes to Helen, takes her hand, and leads her from
+the room</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Lost! lost! lost! (<i>Looks about the room</i>)
+This place!... O, I was mad to come here!... She
+will never forgive me! (<i>Falls on the couch and lies
+motionless. After a moment enter Mrs. Delormis.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Where is the wild man?... Oh, he has
+fainted! The wine! (<i>Goes to the table and pours wine</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Oh!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Delormis turns to him. He rises ceremoniously,
+with effort</i>) Well?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Well, indeed! Here I am to your rescue,
+and you reward me with a &lsquo;well&rsquo; (<i>mimicking</i>) up to
+ceiling.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> What are they saying to her? I must go to her!
+I must!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Must <em>not</em>! Listen! (<i>Grasps his arm to
+detain him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Releasing his arm and bowing stiffly</i>) Mrs.
+Delormis.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. D.</strong> (<i>Copying his manner</i>) Mr. Poe!... Mr.
+Truelord has not yet been roused. No one will wake
+him unless you choose to do it yourself by increasing
+the hubbub. Roger defends you to Mrs. Truelord&mdash;says
+you are ill&mdash;out of your senses&mdash;and other complimentary
+things. Both of them are soothing and
+mothering Helen, and&mdash;(<i>dropping into tenderness</i>) I
+wanted you to have a little mothering, too&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do you really want to help me?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page193" id="page193" title="193"></a><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> O, if you would only let me be your friend!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> You may! Stay here with me till she comes!
+I know she will come. She can not let me go without
+one word. It would be too terrible. She can not! Stay
+till she comes. Talk to me. Do not let me think!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> make myself comfortable then, and
+<abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> have a good chat. You know <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> been told that
+I talk my best between two and three in the morning.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes pillow from couch to make herself cosy
+in chair</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do not touch that pillow!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> (<i>Dropping into chair</i>) Well!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do not sit in that chair!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) May I stand on the carpet, or
+shall I take off my slippers before the burning bush of
+your love?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Forgive me! Don&#8217;t you see that I have lost
+her?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Well, you <em>were</em> out of your senses to
+come here and think Helen would understand it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I was not! She did understand! The vision
+that led me to her feet was as clear as an archangel&#8217;s! It
+is now that I am mad, and see everything gross and
+darkened with earth and flesh! (<i>Overcome, sinks on
+couch. She hastily brings wine</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Drink it. You must.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No! You offer me hell! And you know it.
+Put it down. If you want to help me, go to her and
+bring me one word.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Drink this for me, and I will.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Taking glass</i>) You will?... No! (<i>Puts
+glass down</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> My dear boy, you are too weak to stand!
+<abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> that old habit of not eating. I don&#8217;t believe you
+have tasted food for days.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page194" id="page194" title="194"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> True ... but.... (<i>Faints. Mrs. Delormis
+gives him wine. He rouses</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Now will you kill me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Brightening</i>) No. You were right. <abbr>&#8217;T was</abbr>
+what I needed. <abbr>&#8217;T will</abbr> keep life in me till she comes. Go
+to her now. Tell her I will leave her&mdash;I will go away
+for a year&mdash;a thousand years&mdash;if she will only say I may
+come back some day. I will live in a desert and pray
+myself to the bone! Bring me one word from her&mdash;a
+curse&mdash;anything!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> (<i>Pouring wine</i>) A little more of this
+then, so I shall be sure to find you alive when I return.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Drinks eagerly</i>) <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> life! Life! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> drunk
+of Cretan wines against whose fragrant tide the Venus-rose
+poured all her flood in vain, but never thrilled my
+lips till now with drop so ravishing! And you brought
+it to me! Helen left me to die ... cruel ... cruel ...
+cruel.... (<i>Sits on couch, taking his head in his hands.
+Looks up</i>) Florimel!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> My Calidore!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> You are a very beautiful devil.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> (<i>Pouring wine</i>) Thanks. <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> glad you
+like my style. (<i>Sips wine</i>) It <em>is</em> good, <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> an enchantment to pilot grief to new and
+festal worlds! Another cup! (<i>Drinks</i>) O, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> a drink
+to rouse the drooping soul for <ins title="Possible error for 'warrior'">warrier</ins> quest till on the
+conquered shores of dream man strides a god!...
+(<i>Pours another glass</i>) Again? No ... no more!...
+(<i>Sinks down</i>) O, my bird of Heaven, come quickly, or I
+am lost!... Florimel!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> My knight of Normandy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Since we are going to hell let us be merry
+about it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> At last you are sensible.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Wine! wine!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page195" id="page195" title="195"></a><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> (<i>Holding glass</i>) I mean to have my price
+for this.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Take my soul!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> Something better&mdash;a kiss!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> yours! (<i>Kisses her</i>) Why not? For but
+a kiss did Jove forsake the skies, and jeopard his high
+realm!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. Del.</strong> For but a kiss did Dian leave her throne
+and waste her goddess dower on shepherd lips! (<i>Sits by
+him</i>) Now you are going to tell me something. Why
+did you fly from Normandy, and not a word, not a word
+to me? Come, my Calidore! Why did you fly from me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Momentarily sober</i>) Because&mdash;a woman
+shall never become less holy than God made her through
+me. (<i>Rises and walks away</i>) Helen ... my amaranth,
+I may not pluck thee!... (<i>Staggers</i>) One cup more ...
+one.... (<i>Pours wine, and holds up glass apostrophizing
+as Roger and Helen enter unnoticed</i>) O, little
+ruby ocean that can drown all mortal sighs! Call
+buried hope to put life&#8217;s garland on, and limping woes to
+trip like Nereids on a moonlit shore! For thee, frail
+sickness casts her pallid chrysalis and blooms a rosy
+angel! For thee, Death breaks his scythe and owns Life
+conqueror! (<i>Drinks</i>) Were this Antonius&#8217; cup....
+Ha! Are you there, my devil? Another kiss,
+sweetheart! (<i>Throws his arm about Mrs. Delormis.
+Helen cries out. Poe turns and faces her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>To Poe, speaking slowly and mechanically</i>) I
+came, sir, to ask you to forgive me. (<i>Turns to Roger</i>)
+It is to you, Roger, that I make my plea.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe looks at her helplessly, then understands, and
+with a terrible face, turns and leaps through the open
+window. Helen, with a sob, droops, and Roger takes
+her in his arms</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page196" id="page196" title="196"></a><a name="play3act2" id="play3act2"></a>ACT II.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act2scene1" id="play3act2scene1"></a>Scene: Lawn in front of Clemm cottage, near Richmond.
+Bony and Tat on a side porch shelling peas.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Tat.</strong> Sho&#8217; Mars Edgah come in good time! <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">Pea-vines</ins>
+jes a hangin&#8217; low, an&#8217; sweet as honey!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> Mars Edgah hab peas ebry day wha&#8217; he came
+f&#8217;om! Big city hab ebryting!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Tat.</strong> Dey can&#8217;t hab ebryting when it don&#8217; grow!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> Sho&#8217;, dey hab it when it don&#8217; grow same lak
+when he do grow!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Tat.</strong> You nebah did hab no sense!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> I ain&#8217;t got no sense? Take dat, Tatermally
+Clemm! (<i>Strikes at her. They scuffle and bring Zurie
+to side door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Dem chillun&#8217;<!-- Original clear, but I can&#8217;t see the function of this apostrophe --> jes kill me! Why de Lawd make
+ol&#8217; Zurie bring dem two twins to dis heah worl&#8217; she
+nebah could tell! Dey haint shell &#8217;nuf fo&#8217; a hummin&#8217;
+bird&#8217;s stomach, an&#8217; de pot bilin&#8217; mad fo&#8217; &#8217;m dis minute!
+Wha&#8217; yo&#8217; do, yo&#8217; black niggahs? Come in heah! I make
+yo&#8217; sit still an&#8217; do nuffin&#8217; an&#8217; yo&#8217; ol&#8217; mammy wu&#8217;kin&#8217; hussef
+to def! (<i>Picks up basket and drives children into the
+kitchen. Calls after them beamingly</i>) Wha&#8217; yo&#8217; reckon
+yo&#8217; ol&#8217; <ins title="Corrected from Errata">mammy</ins> cookin&#8217; in dat ubbin fo&#8217; two little no
+&#8217;count niggahs?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Children.</strong> (<i>Within, scampering with delight</i>) Cherry
+cobblah! Cherry cobblah!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Shutting the door</i>) Don&#8217; want dat wind
+blowin&#8217; on my poun&#8217; cake! <abbr>It &#8217;ll</abbr> fall sho&#8217;!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page197" id="page197" title="197"></a>(<i>Virginia comes out at the front door of cottage, and
+walks across the lawn to the shade of a bay tree where
+Poe lies in a hammock as if asleep. A book on the
+ground. She goes up softly and sits on a garden chair
+near him. He opens his eyes</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, I have waked you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, little houri. I was not asleep. I would
+not give one breath of this sweet world to cold, unconscious
+sleep.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You are happy, cousin Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, Virginia. This is all too delicious to be
+called happiness. Too calm, like the stilling of a condor&#8217;s
+wings above sea-guarding peaks. He flies when
+he is happy. When more than happy, it is enough to
+pause in the blue and breathe wonders.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Is it wonderful here, Edgar? It has always
+seemed so to me, but I have been afraid to tell anyone.
+It seems like a great fairy house with God in it. Is it
+wonderful, cousin?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <em>You</em> are wonderful.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, no, no, no! I want to tell you too, Edgar,
+I have never felt that I quite belong here. It is all too
+good for me&mdash;so beautiful, and I am not beautiful.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) Why, my little aspiring Venus, let me
+tell you something. I have wandered somewhat in life&mdash;at
+home and over sea&mdash;and I have never looked
+upon a woman fairer than yourself.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Springing up in delight</i>) O, I am so happy!
+You would not flatter me! You are the soul of truth!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> It is no flattery, little maid, as the world will
+soon teach you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I have nothing to do with that world, Edgar.
+My world is the circuit of our mocking-bird&#8217;s wing. O,
+where is he? (<i>Calls</i>) Freddy! Freddy! He is not
+near or he would come. But he never goes farther than
+<a class="page" name="page198" id="page198" title="198"></a>the orchard. Freddy!... He has not sung to me this
+morning. You <abbr>have n&#8217;t</abbr> heard his finest song yet. O, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr>
+sweeter than&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Picking up book</i>) Than Spenser?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes&mdash;than Spenser. Though he makes music
+too, and we were just coming to the siren&#8217;s song. Shall
+I read?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do! I knew not how to love him till he warbled
+from your tongue.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> where the mermaid calls the knight.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Reads</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>O, thou fair son of gentle faery,</span><br />
+<span>That art in mighty arms most magnifyde</span><br />
+<span>Above all knights that ever battle tried,</span><br />
+<span>O, turn thy rudder hetherward awhile!</span><br />
+<span>Here may the storm-bett<!-- Possible error for 'storm-beat' --> vessel safely ride;</span><br />
+<span>This is the port of ease from troublous toil,</span><br />
+<span>The world&#8217;s sweet inn from pain and wearisome turmoyle!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No more&mdash;no more!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Why, cousin?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I shall have the water about my ears presently.
+I thought I was drowning on a mermaid&#8217;s bosom. Read
+no more, Virginia. One nibble at a time is enough of
+Spenser. He ought to be made into a thousand little
+poems. Then we should have a multitude of gems instead
+of a great granite mountain that nobody can
+circuit without weariness.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You know so much, Edgar. Will you teach
+me while you are here, if I try very hard to learn?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Plucking a flower</i>) My little girl, what lore
+would you teach this bud? God makes some people so.
+Be happy that you are a beautiful certainty and not a
+struggling possibility.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page199" id="page199" title="199"></a><strong>Vir.</strong> But the rose has no soul, Edgar&mdash;no heart, as I
+have. It does not sigh to see you look so pale, and
+read these lines of suffering here, (<i>touching his brow</i>)
+but I&mdash;it kills me, cousin! (<i>He hides his face</i>) Forgive
+me! O, I am so unkind!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm comes out of cottage and crosses to
+them. She gently takes Poe&#8217;s hand from his face and
+kisses him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My dear boy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Seizing her hand and holding it</i>) Don&#8217;t&mdash;don&#8217;t
+be so kind to me, aunt! It tells too much of what
+has never been mine. Curious interest&mdash;passing friendship&mdash;love
+born in a flash and dead in an hour&mdash;these I
+have had, while my heart was crying from its depths
+for the firmly founded love that shakes but with the
+globe itself.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Taking his head on her breast</i>) My dear
+Edgar! You will be my son&mdash;Virginia&#8217;s brother!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Lifting his face smiling</i>) I <em>will</em> be happy!
+No more of that solitude lighted only by the eyes of
+ghouls! Here I have come into the light. I have found
+the sun. I see what my work should be&mdash;what Art is.
+She is beauty and joy. Her light should fall on life like
+morning on the hills. The clouds of passion and agony
+should never darken her face. O, I can paint her now
+ready for the embrace of the soul!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> I can not see things with your rapturous
+eyes, Edgar, but I know that your work will be noble,
+and I love you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, aunt, you and this little wonder-witch have
+enchanted me back to happiness. I promise you never
+again shall you see a tear on my face or a frown on my
+brow. (<i>Virginia, looking toward the road, bows as to
+some one passing</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Blushing, cousin? Who is worth such a rosy
+<a class="page" name="page200" id="page200" title="200"></a>flag? (<i>Stands up and looks down the road</i>) Brackett!
+I do believe!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You know him, Edgar? He is staying with
+my brother-in-law, Nelson Clemm, for a short time, and
+has asked to call on us&mdash;on Virginia, I mean, for of course
+I don&#8217;t count, now that my little girl is suddenly turned
+woman.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Don&#8217;t for Heaven&#8217;s sake!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You don&#8217;t like him, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Like him! We were at West Point together.
+He refused to accept a challenge after slandering me
+vilely, and I was obliged to thrash him. That&#8217;s all.
+(<i>Turns suddenly to Virginia</i>) And you were blushing
+for him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> It was not because I like him, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Looking into her eyes</i>) You are a wise little
+piece.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> This is painful, Edgar. Of course he must
+not call.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Call! Let him but look toward the house
+again, and <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> give him a drubbing that will make him
+forget the first one! The coward! He <abbr>would n&#8217;t</abbr> meet
+me&mdash;after&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> How about the frowns, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Smiling</i>) Let him go!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You should not make such bitter enemies
+at the beginning of life, my boy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> He can not touch me. He is not of my world.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> We are all of one world, Edgar, and never
+know when we may lap fortunes with our foes. Mr.
+Brackett is going into literature too.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yes. The trade and barter part of it. I
+shall be in the holy temple while he keeps a changer&#8217;s
+table on the steps. (<i>Shrugging</i>) Brackett! Pah!...
+But goodbye for half an hour. <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> going to the orchard
+<a class="page" name="page201" id="page201" title="201"></a>to take counsel with the birds on my new philosophy.
+(<i>Starts away</i>) Come, (<i>turning to Virginia</i>) my mocking
+bird, there won&#8217;t be a quorum without you!
+(<i>Virginia goes to him. Zurie puts her head out of a
+window and calls.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mum Zurie.</strong> Mars Nelson comin&#8217; up de lane!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Come back, Virginia, you must see your
+uncle. Edgar, won&#8217;t you wait and meet him?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Thank you aunt, but I don&#8217;t think it would
+give him any pleasure. (<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Coming back reluctantly</i>) O mama, we <em>will</em>
+make him happy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> try, my dear. But you must get
+ready for the picnic. The girls will be here soon. Is
+Edgar going with you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No, mother. He said he would go to a picnic
+only with nymphs and naiads.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Here is uncle.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter, from the road, Nelson Clemm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> How d&#8217; do, Maria! Howdy, girl! Go get
+your hat.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> What now, Nelson?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> Nothin&#8217;. Only <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> tired o&#8217; foolin&#8217; and
+talkin&#8217; about that girl&#8217;s education. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> come to take
+her this time.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> To send me to school?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> High time, ain&#8217;t it? I <abbr>could n&#8217;t</abbr> make up
+my mind before whether <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> to be the seminary at
+Bowville or Maryburg. But I had a letter this morning
+which settled it for Bowville. Suits me exactly&mdash;suits
+me <em>exactly</em>. So get your hat and come along.<!-- , followed by sentence space in original --> I drove
+across the ridge and left my trap at Judge Carroll&#8217;s.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Her clothes, Nelson! <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> nothing
+ready&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> You mean to say! When <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> been talkin&#8217;
+<a class="page" name="page202" id="page202" title="202"></a>this thing a whole year? And you a thrifty woman tell
+me her clothes ain&#8217;t ready? Well, <abbr>she &#8217;ll</abbr> come without
+&#8217;em, that&#8217;s all. You can send &#8217;em along afterwards.
+<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> got it all fixed up, I tell you. My brother&#8217;s child
+shall have her chance&mdash;she shall have her chance, so
+long as <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> got a dollar in my pocket and she walks
+exactly to please me&mdash;walks <em>exactly</em> to please me. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr>
+for you to say, Maria, whether <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> stand in the way
+o&#8217; your own flesh and blood or not.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Of course, Nelson, I am very grateful, and
+do not dream of depriving Virginia of this opportunity,
+only&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> That&#8217;s all there is to it then. No onlys
+about it. Go get your hat, girl. (<i>Virginia goes slowly
+into the house. At the door she meets Zurie who turns
+back and goes in with her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Now, Nelson?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> just this. My brother&#8217;s child shan&#8217;t
+stay another hour in the same house with Edgar Poe.
+That&#8217;s the plain tale of it, Maria.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Nelson Clemm!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> O, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> been hearin&#8217; things&mdash;<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> been hearin&#8217;!
+He <abbr>did n&#8217;t</abbr> cover all his tracks at West Point&mdash;or
+New York either!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Lies! All lies! Every one of them! He is
+the soul of honor! Already Virginia loves him like a
+brother! I trust her instinct! I trust my own!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> O, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not arguin&#8217;, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> just doin&#8217;. You
+can&#8217;t turn him out, of course. <abbr>Would n&#8217;t</abbr> do it myself.
+<abbr>Nobody &#8217;ll</abbr> ever say Nelse Clemm was an inhospitable
+dog! But I can look out for Virginia, and I will. She
+goes with me now, or <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> done with you and yours&mdash;and
+you know that mortgage ain&#8217;t paid off yet.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Yes, she shall go. She ought to be in school
+and again I thank you for helping us. But you are
+<a class="page" name="page203" id="page203" title="203"></a>wronging my nephew,&mdash;one of the noblest of men. You
+don&#8217;t know him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> plain enough <em>you</em> don&#8217;t!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Has Mr. Brackett&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> Mr. Brackett is a guest in my house. Now,
+Maria, say what you please. (<i>Virginia comes out of
+cottage carrying a small satchel</i>) That&#8217;s a good girl!
+<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> fix up a fine trunk and send it after her, won&#8217;t we,
+mother?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Putting her arms about her mother&#8217;s neck</i>)
+He&mdash;<abbr>was n&#8217;t</abbr> in the orchard, mama. Won&#8217;t you say
+goodbye to him for me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mr. C.</strong> Come, come now! (<i>Leads her away</i>) Don&#8217;t
+worry, Maria. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> drive you over to Bowville
+every Sunday Doctor Barlow <abbr>does n&#8217;t</abbr> preach. (<i>Half
+turning</i>) By the by, I saw him down the lane at the
+widow Simson&#8217;s. Reckon <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> be along here pretty
+soon. Seems to be on his widow&#8217;s route to-day. Good
+morning! (<i>Exeunt</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Looking after them</i>) I shall go to her
+myself to-morrow. My little daughter! A stately
+woman now, but always my little daughter! (<i>Starts
+into the house, pausing on steps</i>) Poor Edgar! How
+he is misjudged! (<i>Goes in</i>)</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Zurie, Tat following, comes out of the side door and
+sets to work digging up a shrub</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Muttering</i>) Wha&#8217; Mis&#8217; Clemm gwine ter say
+ter all dem young ladies comin&#8217; heah fo&#8217; de picnic? An&#8217;
+who gwine ter eat dem pies Zurie been two days
+makin&#8217;? An&#8217; sech a poun&#8217; cake! It ought to be a
+weddin&#8217; cake, deed it ought! (<i>Bony comes out of
+kitchen with a knife in his hand</i>) Heah, niggah, gimme
+up dat knife an&#8217; don&#8217; be so slow-back! Dis heah bush
+done grow an&#8217; bloom till yo&#8217; get heah!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Poe, left, singing</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span><a class="page" name="page204" id="page204" title="204"></a>Old winter is a lie</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;As every spring doth prove,</span><br />
+<span>And care is born to die</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;If we but let in love&mdash;</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>Hey Mum Zurie, what are you doing?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;s</abbr> diggin&#8217;, honey.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> That rosebay is the most graceful shrub in the
+yard. You kill one leaf of it, if you dare!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Miss Virginia she say how her bru&#8217;r Edgah lub
+dis heah tree, an&#8217; she want it under her window.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Oh! Can&#8217;t I help you, Zurie? Tenderly now!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Miss Babylam&#8217; ax me to move it yistiddy but
+I don&#8217;t git no time, an&#8217; I ain&#8217; gwine to leab it now jes
+cause <abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> gone away.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Gone away?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> O Lawd, I forgot you don&#8217; know! Why,
+honey, Mars Nelson he come jes now an&#8217; frisk her off to
+school. Zip! an&#8217; Babylam&#8217; gone! An&#8217; law, ef you seen
+dat po&#8217; chile cryin&#8217;!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> She cried, Zurie?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Deed she did, and she ax me twenty hundred
+times to tell her bru&#8217;r Edgah goodbye.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Virginia gone?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> I done tol&#8217; yo, Mars Edgah! Sho&#8217; yo&#8217; don&#8217;t
+think ol&#8217; Zurie know how ter tell lies, does yo&#8217;, honey?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, Zurie, I know she is gone. The birds have
+all stopped singing.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Law, Mars Edgah, dey jes be a chipperin&#8217;!
+Heah dat now?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> That is not a song, Zurie. It is a wail from
+Stygian boughs.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> O, yo&#8217; go way!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Gone! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not permit it! My aunt must
+bring her back! (<i>Hurries into house</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page205" id="page205" title="205"></a><strong>Zu.</strong> Wha&#8217; make him ac&#8217; so now? An&#8217; wha&#8217; make
+Miss Babylam&#8217; cry hussef sick when <abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> gwine away
+ter be a fine lady? Mars Nelson he mighty good to gib
+her eddication, but true fo&#8217; sho he might jes&#8217; well gib it
+to my Tatermally fer all de thanks <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> <ins title="Period and apostrophe transposed in original">gittin&#8217;.</ins> Ol&#8217; Zurie
+reckon it a sin to cry ober de goodness ob God!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm and Poe come out of cottage, both
+disturbed</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> But, aunt, how are we going to live without
+her?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My dear Edgar, we must not let our affections
+root so deep in mortal things.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Mortal? Virginia mortal! She is a sister to
+Psyche, immortal as the breath that blew her into
+beauteous bloom!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> While I am glad, my son, to see you so
+devoted to your sister&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Sister! Thank Heaven she is not my sister!
+Aunt, Virginia must be my wife!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Bewildered</i>) Are you mad, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No. Sane at last. I have been mad until now.
+I have drunk loneliness and death. Here I breathe, grateful,
+glad as a flower! My breast swells and falls as a
+bird&#8217;s throat with happy song! O, aunt, help me to
+accept this fair new life&mdash;the only real life! Do not drive
+me back to gloom and the devils! Give me your Virginia!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> A child, Edgar! A child!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> To you&mdash;only to you. She has her full dower
+of beauty&mdash;womanhood&#8217;s portion.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She has a right to her education. I can
+not wrong my child.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I will teach her&mdash;teach her more than she will
+ever learn at the great mess table of knowledge where
+the genius must take his treacle and the blacksmith his
+ambrosia! O, aunt, you will give her to me?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page206" id="page206" title="206"></a><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar, I love you dearly,&mdash;but&mdash;my little
+girl&mdash;my Virginia&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Bitterly</i>) There is a difference then. She is
+yours, I am not.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Do not be cruel. I am a distracted
+mother!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My dear aunt!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Virginia runs into yard and flings her arms about
+her mother</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, mama, uncle had to stop at Judge Carroll&#8217;s
+and they got into an argument and Mrs. Carroll said
+they would be at it for hours&mdash;she knew by the way the
+judge was filling his pipe&mdash;and told me to run back if I
+wanted to&mdash;Mama! Edgar! What is the matter?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar does not want you to leave home,
+dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Tell her all, aunt. (<i>Mrs. Clemm is silent. Poe
+takes Virginia&#8217;s hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Virginia, you who have the face of a houri, the
+form of a sylph, and the heart of an angel, will you be
+my wife?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My gentle one, can I not teach you to love
+me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Teach me? Ah, I love you now, Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Virginia!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I do! I do, mama! And oh, what happiness
+beyond my dream&mdash;to be&mdash;his wife!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe embraces her gently and draws her toward the
+garden, right. They go out slowly. Mrs. Clemm turns
+toward the cottage, weeping. At the step she hesitates,
+looks toward the garden, and slowly goes after
+them, murmuring distractedly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Who has observed the scene with growing horror</i>)
+Fo&#8217; de Lawd, fo&#8217; de Lawd, bless dem two babies! O,
+<a class="page" name="page207" id="page207" title="207"></a>de signs am all wrong! Miss Babylam&#8217; came back when
+she done start away! An&#8217; Freddy bird hop right on my
+ol&#8217; wool dis mawnin&#8217;, kase why, he want tell me sumpin
+gwine happen to Babylam&#8217;. An&#8217;, oh, dis po&#8217; ol&#8217; niggah
+is kilt, kase dis is de day Miss Babylam&#8217;s fadder done die!
+De missus she go &#8217;bout cryin&#8217; dis mawnin, an&#8217; I allus
+&#8217;member she do dat dis bery day! Wha&#8217; make Mars
+Nelson come fo&#8217; Babylam&#8217;? O, fo de Lawd, fo de Lawd!
+(<i>Tat and Bony stare at their mother in terror as she
+proceeds</i>) I see de black hawk what flies outen de dead
+swamp! Ooo! I see knives a drippin&#8217; an&#8217; guns a poppin&#8217;!
+Oooooooo! I see de coffin, de coffin&mdash;an&#8217; <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> all
+dark night, an&#8217; de rain comin&#8217; down de chimney&mdash;an&#8217; de
+wind&mdash;de wind&mdash;it say &ldquo;Ooooooooooo!&rdquo; (<i>Bends her
+knees and body, and stares moaning. Tat and Bony
+cling to her skirts. She turns on them with a scream, at
+which they tumble to the ground</i>) Wha&#8217; yo&#8217; doin&#8217; heah,
+yo&#8217; black no &#8217;count niggahs?</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter from the gate the old minister, Doctor Barlow</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> Good morning, Mum Zurie. You seem to
+be agitated. Can I help you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Lawd, no! beg yo&#8217; pahdon, sah! <abbr>I &#8217;s</abbr> jes so
+mighty tickled! Dese heah two niggahs so comicky like!
+Lawd, no, I <abbr>was n&#8217;t</abbr> alligated at all, beg yo&#8217; pahdon, sah!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> glad to hear it, Zurie. Is your mistress
+at home?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Yes, sah. Dey all be in de gahden.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> just take a walk in there then.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit, right</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Wha&#8217; make me le&#8217;m go in de gahden? My brain
+it jes all wool and no sense at all! Wha&#8217; now he fin&#8217;
+Mars Edgah kissin&#8217; Miss Babylam&#8217;? Well, ain&#8217;t dey
+gwine ter be married? Married! O, lawd! (<i>Throws
+her apron over her head and sits on the ground. Re-enter
+<a class="page" name="page208" id="page208" title="208"></a>Mrs. Clemm and Doctor Barlow. He carries his
+hat in one hand and mops his brow with the other</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> Well, well, well! Upon my word! Your
+nephew&mdash;pardon me&mdash;is possessed of a rather impetuous
+spirit&mdash;rather impetuous, pardon me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, Doctor Barlow, what must I do? You
+heard him! He wants to be married now&mdash;this hour!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> Trust me, Mrs. Clemm, I shall perform no
+ceremony without your full consent.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, I am sure of that! But must I consent?
+If I refuse him he may take her away from me. And
+Nelson will make trouble if we wait. Edgar will let no
+one oppose him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> <em>I</em> should not attempt it, Mrs. Clemm.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> If it <em>is</em> to be, it is better to let it be now.
+What makes me so helpless is the fact that Virginia is
+against me. She loves him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Doctor B.</strong> Naturally, Mrs. Clemm, naturally.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>They enter the cottage</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Wha&#8217; dat man talk so now? He better quit
+preachin&#8217; ef he can&#8217;t hep folks no more &#8217;n dat! Sho&#8217;, ol&#8217;
+Zurie hussef know dat much!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter from the road a swarm of girls. They wear
+graceful organdie gowns, and large ricestraw hats
+trimmed with bows and streamers. Some carry baskets,
+which they drop, and all troop about the yard</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gertrude.</strong> <abbr>Where &#8217;s</abbr> Virginia, Mum Zurie?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Hesitating</i>) She wa&#8217; in de house &#8217;bout so long
+ago.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ger.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> see!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Wait a minute! Mis&#8217; Clemm she an&#8217; de minister
+talkin&#8217; on impo&#8217;tant business. Maybe <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> dat mortgage,
+I dunno! (<i>Grimaces</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ger.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> go into the garden then. (<i>All start,
+right</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page209" id="page209" title="209"></a><strong>Zu.</strong> Law, you jes oughter see dat cherry tree hangin&#8217;
+full by de back gate!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> O! O! O! (<i>They rush off, disappearing
+behind the cottage. Re-enter Poe and Virginia from the
+garden as Mrs. Clemm appears at the front door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> too sweet to be true! How have I won
+you, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> By beauty, that speaks loudest when most
+silent. (<i>Mrs. Clemm meets them</i>) God bless you, aunt.
+I see &lsquo;yes&rsquo; in your eyes. You could not deny me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> No.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Run, Virginia, and put on your fairy&#8217;s dress! I
+want you to look as if you were leaping out of a flower
+into my heart! (<i>Virginia goes in</i>) O this beautiful
+world! Just to live, my aunt! Is it not enough?
+Literature is disease! The sick-robe of the soul! Who
+can write that does not <em>live</em>&mdash;and who that <em>lives</em> would
+write! But I must do it&mdash;I must work for her. Not a
+wind shall blow upon my Virginia! I will find the fairy
+paths for her feet! Not a satyr shall leer from the wood!
+She will be ready soon. I shall wait for her in the orchard.
+I would not see her again until she is mine&mdash;all
+mine!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit, left, singing</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>&lsquo;Come, Apollo&#8217;s pipes are merry&mdash;&rsquo;</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm goes in</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) I don&#8217; reckon it make no difference
+&#8217;bout dis heah bush now! (<i>Goes to side door and sits
+on step disconsolately. The girls come running back</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mabel.</strong> <abbr>Here &#8217;s</abbr> the finest cherry on the tree for the
+prettiest mouth! Open, who gets it! (<i>Girls open their
+mouths. Mabel eats cherry</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gertrude.</strong> O, vanity!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page210" id="page210" title="210"></a><strong>Mab.</strong> No, I just took it for Virginia.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> <abbr>Let &#8217;s</abbr> play <em>Ant&#8217;ny Over</em> while we&#8217;re waiting!
+<abbr>Where &#8217;s</abbr> a ball? Bony, get a ball!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> Can&#8217;t do it, missis! <abbr>Y&#8217; all</abbr> los&#8217; it las&#8217; time
+yo&#8217;s all here!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Dora.</strong> <em>Marlow Bright</em> then! Half with me and
+half with Mabel! (<i>Girls divide, the two companies taking
+opposite bases some distance apart</i>)</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dora.</strong> Marlow, marlow, marlow bright!</span><br />
+<span>How many miles to the old turnpike?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mab.</strong> Three score and ten!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dora.</strong> Can we get there by candle light?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mab.</strong> Yes, if your toes are tripping light!</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Dora.</strong> Any robbers on the way?</span></p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Mab.</strong> Three blind witches, so they say,</span><br />
+<span>And Robin Hood with all his <em>men</em>!</span></p>
+
+<p>(<i>With the last word the girls exchange bases, the
+travellers, with Dora, trying to reach the opposite base
+without being caught by the robbers with Mabel. Virginia
+comes to the door of cottage</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> Virginia! (<i>Girls stop playing as
+Virginia joins them</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gert.</strong> How pretty you look!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mab.</strong> You&#8217;re a <em>real</em> nymph!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> Come, <abbr>let &#8217;s</abbr> be off now! (<i>Picks up a basket</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Girls&mdash;I&mdash;there <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> going to be any picnic.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> No picnic!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> But a wedding.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> A wedding! Where? Where?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Right here&mdash;under the bay tree.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> Who? Who?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Why&mdash;cousin Edgar&mdash;and&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> You! you! (<i>All talk at once in excited babble.
+Virginia breaks from them and runs into the house.
+Girls keep tumultuous talk partly distinguishable</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page211" id="page211" title="211"></a><strong>Gert.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> so handsome!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sallie.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> a prince!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> Too young to be married!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel.</strong> <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> twenty!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gladys.</strong> Older!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mab.</strong> No!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mamie.</strong> Virginia is a baby!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Alma.</strong> <abbr>She &#8217;s</abbr> taller than any of us!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> But younger!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sallie.</strong> <abbr>Yonder &#8217;s</abbr> Allie Kirby!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mamie.</strong> Won&#8217;t she be surprised! I <abbr>was n&#8217;t</abbr> one bit!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> Nor I!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Other Girls.</strong> Nor I! Nor I!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> tell her!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> No, let me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Other Girls.</strong> I will! I will!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>As Allie enters all the girls rush to her and talk at
+once, trying to tell her the news. Mrs. Clemm and Virginia
+come out of the house and join them</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My little yard never held so many flowers
+before.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Allie.</strong> Is it true, Mrs. Clemm?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> Of course it is! But you&#8217;re not going to let
+him take her away from us!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> No, my dears. She will be one of you still.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Where is Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> &#8217;Deed, he wah in de orchard &#8217;bout two
+drecklys ago.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> He <abbr>does n&#8217;t</abbr> know <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> ready. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> go tell him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> Do! do!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Daughter!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Girls.</strong> Do let her go, Mrs. Clemm!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mab.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> all go! What fun!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Gert.</strong> <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> play &lsquo;hunt the bridegroom!&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Girls run off, disappearing in various directions</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page212" id="page212" title="212"></a><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> What will Doctor Barlow think? (<i>Goes
+in. Allie, the last of the girls, pauses as she passes to the
+side door where Zurie is sitting</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Allie.</strong> Why, Mum Zurie, you look as if Miss Virginia
+were going to be buried instead of married.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> (<i>Jumping at the word &lsquo;buried&rsquo;</i>) Sho&#8217; now,
+can&#8217;t Zurie hab de toothache wheneber she please, missus?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Allie.</strong> Toothache? O, <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sorry, Mum Zurie.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Mars Edgah <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> a mighty fine young man! Yo&#8217;
+won&#8217;t see no sech grow up roun&#8217; <em>heah</em>!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Allie.</strong> But what a pity he <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> rich!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Rich? Wha&#8217; fo&#8217; Mars Edgah want to be rich?
+All he got to do is jes scribble, scribble on a piece o&#8217;
+papah, an&#8217; de gol&#8217; come rollin&#8217; down de chimney! Rich!
+Yo&#8217; better say yo&#8217; prayers yo&#8217; get a Mars Edgah too!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Allie.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> get you to pray for me, Mum Zurie.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Runs away laughing</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Wha&#8217; fo&#8217; now she say I look lak Miss Babylam&#8217;
+gwine ter be buried? O, de good Lawd hep ol&#8217; Zurie!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes in. Enter Poe, left. He is moody and disturbed</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I feel it&mdash;a wind from out that solitude. It
+calls me back ... it calls me back....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Without, calling</i>) Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Sweet voice from the fields of the sun! (<i>Prays</i>)
+Jehovah, guide thou me! (<i>Virginia peers around a
+shrub</i>) Who could lock life&#8217;s door on such a face? It is
+God&#8217;s gift. I take it. (<i>Virginia comes to him slowly.
+He takes her in his arms. Mrs. Clemm and the minister
+come out of the house and pause on the steps looking at
+them. The girls come rushing back laughing and shouting,
+and at sight of Poe and Virginia become suddenly
+silent</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a class="page" name="page213" id="page213" title="213"></a><a name="play3act3" id="play3act3"></a>ACT III.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act3scene1" id="play3act3scene1"></a>Scene I: Interior of Clemm cottage. A large room
+simply furnished. Low fire burning in fireplace. Poe at
+table writing. Suddenly drops pen and picks up two
+letters)<!-- There are a few stage directions like this ending in )
+without ( at the beginning. I think they are intentional --></p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I must destroy these. She must not know....
+My wife.... (<i>drops letters absentmindedly</i>) ... Married.
+Married? What spirit so subtly fine can mingle
+here?... Back, back, ye troops of devils damned or
+angels blest&mdash;I know not which to call ye&mdash;summoning
+me to those lone regions of the mind where none may
+follow! None?... Helen could tread those airy worlds
+with me!... Helen!... Far, far as zenith stars that
+ride the blue meridian thou art, and I, deep, deep, to
+nadir sink! (<i>Drops his head to the table</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Virginia.</strong> (<i>Without</i>) Edgar! (<i>He lifts his head
+smiling as she enters</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Holding out a book</i>) O, I know the alphabet!
+I can say it all! (<i>Gives him the book</i>) Watch now, and
+see if I make a mistake!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Edgar.</strong> (<i>Smiling.</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> hardly need the book, dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Pouting.</i>) O, I forget that you know everything!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Not everything. (<i>Taking her face between his
+hands as she sits on his knee, the book falling at their
+feet</i>) I do not know how to be happy when this beautiful
+face is gone. My wife is the fairest lady in all the
+world.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page214" id="page214" title="214"></a><strong>Vir.</strong> Then what does it matter about this old Greek,
+Edgar? (<i>Touching book with her foot</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Just this. You can not always be young and
+beautiful, and when you are no longer the fairest I want
+you to be the wisest.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> And if I am you will love me always?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Always.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Give me the book! (<i>Picks it up</i>) O, I will eat
+Greek! I will breakfast with the heroes, dine with the
+bards, and sup with the gods! But what a pity one
+must begin with the alphabet to end with&mdash;what were
+those lovely lines I found in your book yesterday?</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>And Helen on the walls rose like a star,</span><br />
+<span>And every Trojan said &lsquo;<abbr>she &#8217;s</abbr> worth our blood,&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>And every Greek ploughed new his way to her&mdash;</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>Go on, Edgar! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure you know them!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>As she repeats the lines he presses her head to his
+shoulder and puts his hand over her eyes. His face is
+full of agony, but there is only sweetness in his voice.</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Not now, my little wife. Some other time.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Helen is such a beautiful name. I wish I had
+been named Helen.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Thank God you are not!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Looking up hastily</i>) Why&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I mean that I want you to be just as you
+are&mdash;my Virginia&mdash;nothing else!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Seeing he is troubled</i>) I am keeping you from
+your work. You should have sent me away. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be
+angry with you, Edgar, if you let me disturb you. Now
+<abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> going to find the last rose of summer for you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> But you <abbr>have n&#8217;t</abbr> said your lesson.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O! (<i>begins</i>) Alpha, beta,&mdash;now if I say them
+right you are to give me a kiss for reward!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And if you miss one, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> give you a kiss for
+encouragement.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page215" id="page215" title="215"></a><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Seeing letter</i>) O, a letter from New York!
+<abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> made me your secretary, you know, and of
+course I must read your letters! (<i>Picks it up and
+glances at it</i>) He says Mr. Willis will certainly give you
+a place on his paper. (<i>Drops letter and looks at him
+quietly</i>) It is your chance for fortune.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I am not going, love.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> If you go now it means success, if you wait
+failure.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I shall not go, Virginia.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> If you were not married you would go.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Then I am glad I can not go.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> But you <em>can</em> go, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My darling, I will never take you away from
+your mocking birds and roses. Don&#8217;t you think any
+more about it. Run away now and find me a flower.
+You will have to look sharp under the leaves, for the
+wind is whistling to-day. Our little sham winter has
+begun to bluster. (<i>Exit Virginia</i>) She shall not suffer.
+She shall not! Though my heart surges like a prisoned
+sea hers shall not move her bosom&#8217;s alabaster!...
+Why <abbr>did n&#8217;t</abbr> I burn that letter. (<i>Throws it into the fire.
+Take<!-- So in original, rather than 'Takes' --> up the other one</i>) I must keep the lawyer&#8217;s. I
+shall need it. (<i>Puts it in his pocket</i>) Now work&mdash;work&mdash;work&mdash;(<i>Resumes
+writing</i>) &lsquo;<em>The Kingdom of the
+Sun is peopled with beings whose distinguishing attribute
+is color instead of form as with us. This color
+varies with each thought of the spirit that it invests,
+and also with the eye that beholds it. There is no need
+to pellet the ear with rude words, for the most refined
+meanings and emotions are conveyed by these subtle variations
+of color coming and going like breathing light.
+Were&mdash;</em>&rsquo; (<i>Enter Mrs. Clemm</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar, dear, your breakfast has been waiting
+two hours.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page216" id="page216" title="216"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> O, thank you, aunt. Don&#8217;t trouble about me
+this morning. I shall want nothing.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> But, Edgar, my son, I must speak. You
+do not sleep and eat as people should who wish to live
+long for those who love them.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Dear aunt, pray&mdash;<abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> talk about it some
+other time. I <em>must</em> work now!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> I am sorry to disturb you, love, but there is
+one question I must ask you. Have you heard from the
+lawyer? (<i>Poe is silent</i>) A letter came. I thought you
+would tell me, and not force me to ask about what I
+must know. Is the place sold?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> But it will be? We must lose our home?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, darling mother! I am going to pay off
+everything! This very article I am writing will bring
+me fame if I finish it. So please help me by not worrying
+one bit, and don&#8217;t let our Virginia suspect anything.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> It would kill her! O, Edgar, I have been
+wanting to tell you how grateful I am to you for your
+gentleness to her. Though she looks so strong, she has
+been frail from her birth. I know that she must die
+early. I ought to have told you&mdash;that day&mdash;but I
+could think of nothing. You will forgive me, Edgar?
+She is such a child. I wonder at your patience. But you
+will never be impatient with her, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> If I am, may God that moment end my villain&#8217;s
+life! Go now, sweet mother, for I must work, and remember
+that you are to be troubled about nothing.
+(<i>Exit Mrs. Clemm, right, rear</i>) Goodbye, Art! Thou
+pure chrystalline dream! I must turn my brain into a
+mint and coin money! O, Poesy, thou only divine mistress
+given to man, some day I will return to thee!
+(<i>Writes</i>) &lsquo;<em>Were zephyrs made visible by means of ever
+changing hues&mdash;</em>&rsquo; (<i>Bony and Tat rush into the room.
+<a class="page" name="page217" id="page217" title="217"></a>Poe glares at them with a face of fury. They turn to
+fly panic-stricken. Tat trips on a chair and lies moaning.
+Poe goes to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Gently</i>) Are you hurt, Tatsy?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> (<i>At door, turning back, suddenly impudent at
+sound of Poe&#8217;s softened voice</i>) She jes sullin&#8217;, Mars
+Edgah. She play possum like dat wid me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Get out, you little imp! (<i>Bony vanishes</i>)
+Where are you hurt, Tatsy? (<i>She moans bitterly</i>) Poor
+little girl! Her foot is twisted. A sprain perhaps.
+(<i>Picks her up and carries her to sofa</i>) Never mind! <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr>
+got a fairy in a bottle will cure that in a jiffy. Just rub
+it on, and ho, Tatsy is well again!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Zurie, Bony clinging to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Wha&#8217; my chile? Lawdy God, my chile sho&#8217; &#8217;nuf
+hurt! (<i>Goes to Tatsy</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> the foot, Zurie. Be careful!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Yas, <abbr>I &#8217;s</abbr> seen dat foot befoh! (<i>Gives foot a
+yank</i>) <abbr>Dat &#8217;s</abbr> her ol&#8217; trick, Mars Edgah. She jes foolin&#8217;
+yo&#8217;! Don&#8217; yo&#8217; be so soft hearted next time. Yo&#8217; jes take
+her by de back ob de neck and wring her head off!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I certainly will!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Zurie, drawing Tat. Poe goes back to his
+work. Groans, and looks with desperation at his
+manuscript</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, if this eludes me! I must not lose it now!
+(<i>Writes</i>) &lsquo;<em>In this Kingdom of the Sun there is a central
+creating light that plays upon these color-beings with its
+own transmuting&mdash;</em>&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Re-enter Mrs. Clemm, bearing a tray</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My dear, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> brought you some toast and
+an egg.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Jumping up and staring at her</i>) They don&#8217;t
+eat toast and eggs in the Kingdom of the Sun!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page218" id="page218" title="218"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> Forgive me! <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> just something <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> writing
+here. But for God&#8217;s sake take the stuff away!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm turns to go, the tray trembling in her
+hands. Poe runs to her and kisses her</i>) You sweetest
+and best of mothers, don&#8217;t you see that if I eat this <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr>
+spend the next two hours digesting toast and eggs, and
+if I don&#8217;t eat it <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be making our fortune, putting a
+roof over our heads, and keeping our Virginia happy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> I only meant to be kind, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I know you did, and you&#8217;re my darling
+mother,&mdash;but don&#8217;t be kind any more.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit Mrs. Clemm. Poe sits despairingly at table.
+Enter Ethel and Annie</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Eth.</strong> O, Edgar, where is Virginia? We want her to
+go nutting with us.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> We shall have her now! You shan&#8217;t keep
+her all to yourself just because <abbr>you &#8217;ve</abbr> married her!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Take her by all means!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Eth.</strong> You <abbr>need n&#8217;t</abbr> be vicious about it. Where is
+she?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I don&#8217;t know,&mdash;and pardon if I say that just
+at this moment I don&#8217;t care!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Gathers up papers and goes toward stairway in
+corner of room</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> You <abbr>need n&#8217;t</abbr> run from us. <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure we&#8217;re
+glad to go. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> find Virginia.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Eth.</strong> And <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> write that note to Gladys while
+you&#8217;re gone. (<i>Seats herself in Poe&#8217;s chair. Exit Annie,
+left, rear</i>) Come back, if you want to, Edgar. You
+won&#8217;t disturb me at all. (<i>Writes. Poe pauses on stairway
+and looks at her. Ethel lifts her eyes</i>) You <abbr>need n&#8217;t</abbr>
+look so far to see me. <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not the North Pole! What
+<em>are</em> you thinking of, Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Of what Anacreon said to a fly that lighted on
+his brow when he was composing an ode to Venus.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page219" id="page219" title="219"></a><strong>Ethel.</strong> O! What was it?</p>
+
+<p><span><strong>Poe.</strong></span></p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Away, thou rude and slight impertinence,</span><br />
+<span>That with thy puny and detested bill</span><br />
+<span>Dost think to feed on immortality.</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes upstairs</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel.</strong> Beast! (<i>Writes</i>) Virginia spoils him. If I
+had him now <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> soon make a nice comfortable husband
+out of him!... An envelope?... Yes.... (<i>Takes one</i>)
+Stamp?... Yes.... (<i>Takes one</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> get Bony to mail
+this for me.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Exit, right, rear. Poe comes down stairway</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Gone? Deliverance! <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> too chilly for work
+upstairs. (<i>Coughs</i>) What shall I do here this winter
+with only one comfortable room in the house? Keep
+warm by the fire in my brain, I suppose. (<i>Sits and
+writes. Virginia is heard without, humming a song.
+She enters, left, front, with a rose in her hand</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Darling, I found it deep under the leaves&mdash;Oh!
+(<i>Starts out softly. Poe writes on without looking
+up. At the door she turns and throws the rose towards
+him. It falls onto the table and upsets ink over papers</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Leaping up</i>) By every fiend in hell!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm rushes in, followed by Zurie, Tat and
+Bony</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My son, what is the matter?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> See what that child has done!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>With dignity</i>) Your wife, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My wife! Great God! O, Helen! Helen!
+(<i>Rushes from the room, left rear</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bony.</strong> I tol&#8217; yo&#8217; he wah mad! I done tol&#8217; yo&#8217; Mars
+Edgah gone mad! He look at me jes so! (<i>Mimics</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Tat.</strong> (<i>Looking through window</i>) Dah he go now
+troo de orchard jes a runnin&#8217;!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page220" id="page220" title="220"></a><strong>Bony.</strong> Obah de fence!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Tat.</strong> An&#8217; no hat on!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Zu.</strong> Stop yo&#8217; mouf an&#8217; come out o&#8217; heah, yo&#8217; wussless
+niggahs! I make yo&#8217; know wha&#8217; yo&#8217; b&#8217;longs!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Takes them out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, Virginia! What an hour for you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> What an hour for <em>him</em>, mamma!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Strange child! Not to think of yourself!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> How can I, when he is suffering so?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My angel daughter!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Kissing her</i>) We will be brave, my mother. I
+hear the girls. Go to them one moment&mdash;do! (<i>Exit
+Mrs. Clemm</i>) ... Helen! Dear God above! (<i>Drops on
+her knees by a chair. After a moment of agony, rises,
+goes to table and looks at papers</i>) What is it I have
+ruined? (<i>Reads silently</i>) O, what beauty!... I think
+I can make this out and copy it for him. But now he
+may never finish it. The heavenly moment is gone ...
+and I robbed him of it.... I, who should guard him and
+keep the world away. That is my little part&mdash;too little,
+God knows! O, if I could really help him!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Ethel and Annie</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Eth.</strong> O, Virginia, now that we&#8217;re rid of that
+troublesome husband <abbr>let &#8217;s</abbr> have one of our good old-fashioned
+times! <abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> sit by the fire and tell tales. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr>
+too cold anyway to go to the woods.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Absently</i>) Edgar is there.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> And there let him stay! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> better
+for both of you. You hang about him too much, Virginia.
+<abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> quit loving you, mamma says he will, if
+you&#8217;re not more sensible. Help me draw up this sofa,
+Ethel. (<i>They pull sofa to the fire. Annie settles herself
+comfortably</i>) I feel just like giving you a lecture, Virginia.
+You must make Edgar go out more. Anybody
+will get queer shut up here. The other day when mamma
+<a class="page" name="page221" id="page221" title="221"></a>asked him to come to our party he <abbr>was n&#8217;t</abbr> more than
+half polite when he refused, and we were going to have
+Mr. Melrose Libbie to meet him too. Said his work
+would keep him at home! Now you know, Virginia,
+that poetry <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> work. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> just dash off a line now
+and then, and there you are! Mr. Libbie said so. O, he
+had the sweetest thing on the woman&#8217;s page in last Sunday&#8217;s
+paper! Did you see it? <abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> better call Edgar&#8217;s
+attention to it. Mamma read it to all of us at the
+breakfast table, and&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Eth.</strong> O, stop your chatter, Annie, and let Virginia
+tell us one of her fairy stories just as she used to do.
+<abbr>We &#8217;ll</abbr> forget all about Edgar and make believe she <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr>
+married at all.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Painfully</i>) Forgive me, dear girls, but <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr>
+some work that I must do to-day.</p>
+
+<p><strong><ins title="Possible error for 'Ethel.'">Mabel.</ins></strong> Must do! Who ever heard the like?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I was wrong. It is some work that I choose
+to do&mdash;that it will be my happiness to do.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel.</strong> For Edgar?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> You are a little fool!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes ... I am a little fool.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel.</strong> O, <abbr>there &#8217;s</abbr> help for you if you know it!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> If I were not a little fool I could be of more help
+to Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Ethel and Annie.</strong> Oh!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> (<i>Jumping up</i>) Then we can&#8217;t stay to-day!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I am so sorry&mdash;but&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Annie.</strong> O, we might as well give you up first as last!
+(<i>Exeunt girls</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Sits at table and stares at the papers</i>) ...
+A little fool ... a little fool.</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act3scene2" id="play3act3scene2"></a><a class="page" name="page222" id="page222" title="222"></a>Scene II: Same room as before. Night. Virginia
+sits motionless in the dim firelight. Mrs. Clemm comes
+softly down the stairs)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Virginia?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Naughty mamma! You said you would sleep.
+What a story to tell your little girl!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Advancing</i>) The rain&mdash;wakes me. (<i>Comes
+to fire</i>) Did Edgar take his cloak, dear?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No, mother.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Are you not cold in that dress, darling?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O no&mdash;quite comfortable&mdash;and Edgar likes me
+in white, you know. (<i>A window rattles. Both look
+anxiously toward the door</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> What a gust!... I wonder what winter is
+like at the north. (<i>Virginia looks at her quickly, and
+both drop their eyes</i>) ... To think of him out on a
+night like this! And he has not been well lately. Had
+he no purpose? Did he say <em>nothing</em> when he went out?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> He said he was going to seek Truth.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> And what does he mean by truth, Virginia?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, I don&#8217;t know. When he is talking I understand,
+but when he is gone it all fades and I know nothing
+about it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Nor does Edgar, mark me, dear. He is
+trying to know things that the wise God decreed should
+remain unknown to mortals. That is what makes him
+so unhappy.... Did he eat his breakfast this morning,
+Virginia?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No, mamma.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Did he take any food yesterday?... Tell
+me, daughter. I can not help you if I do not know.
+(<i>Virginia begins to sob</i>) There! there, darling! A little
+patience and <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> get him over this.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, mother!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Come here, my little girl. (<i>Takes Virginia
+<a class="page" name="page223" id="page223" title="223"></a>in her arms</i>) Now tell me! Don&#8217;t let the heart go
+heavy when mother ears are waiting.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> He ... goes out at night ... and I follow
+him because it kills me to think of him wandering alone.
+We were on Burney hill last night.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Five miles!... Then that is what these
+pale cheeks and dark eyes mean! And Edgar let you go!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No! I <em>go</em>! I am not a child, mother. Ah, I
+knew you would not understand!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Yes, yes, I do, Virginia. I know he suffers,
+but you&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Don&#8217;t speak of me! You shame me! Were I
+to lie down on those coals my torture would be less than
+his. Remember that, mother. When you doubt, as you
+surely will, remember that I told you, and I know. His
+mind is a <em>living</em> thing, throbbing through his body and
+leaving him no shield of flesh. O, mamma, help him!
+Promise me! You will never forsake him?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Never, my love.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I would not have told you, but my strength is
+gone, and somebody must know,&mdash;somebody who is
+strong. (<i>A gust shakes the window</i>) O, my darling!
+Out in that blackness alone! And if I were there I could
+say nothing. That is the pity of it, mamma. I have no
+words, and thought without tongue is nothing so long
+as we are mortal and wear these bodies. Some day
+it may be enough just to <em>be</em> a soul, but not now&mdash;not
+now!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, my daughter!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Promise me, mamma, that if I die you will find
+Helen. <em>She</em> could help him!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) Virginia, if you say another word
+like that I shall think you are mad&mdash;or I am! (<i>Bursts
+into weeping</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Darling, darling mother! Now I have given
+<a class="page" name="page224" id="page224" title="224"></a>you all my burdens you will grow weak under them, and
+I want strength, strength by my side!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Calm</i>) You must go to bed, dear. I will
+wait for Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No, no!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> I will coax him to eat something.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Smiling sadly</i>) Coax him, mamma?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Yes, dear. Go now.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I can not.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> I command you, my daughter.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Please do not command me. You have never
+had to pardon disobedience in me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Nor shall I have cause now. Obey me, Virginia.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Would you send me into hell, mother?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Daughter!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> That is what a bed is to me when Edgar is out
+like this.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You make too much of these wanderings.
+Night and day are alike to him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Ah, it is not the night that I fear!... Go,
+mamma! It is you who must rest. O, how we need
+these strong arms&mdash;this clear head! I shall nod in my
+chair for the thought of you getting your needed rest
+will bring the winks to my own eyes. Come! (<i>Draws her
+toward stairway</i>) I promise you that I will sleep in the
+big chair as snug and tight as kitty herself. (<i>Kisses her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>On the stairs</i>) I can not leave my sick
+child to watch. You ask me to do an inhuman thing,
+Virginia. I will not go.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Mother!... Do not let me hurt you ... the
+dearest, the most unselfish of mothers ... but it is better
+for me to meet my husband alone.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm turns and goes slowly upstairs. Virginia
+goes back to fire</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page225" id="page225" title="225"></a><strong>Vir.</strong> Watch and pray! I can but watch and pray!...
+He said <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> love he wanted ... and I brought
+him that ... love that shakes but with the globe itself.
+But it does not help ... <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> all wrong ... all
+wrong! (<i>Weeps. Rises, and busies herself about an
+oven on the hearth</i>) Three times I have prepared his
+supper that it might be fresh enough to tempt him. But
+now ... I am so tired. I must try to keep this warm.
+The sight of it may make him angry ... but I must try.
+(<i>Arranges some clothes on a chair</i>) He will be so wet
+with the rain. Ah, I can do nothing ... nothing.
+(<i>Looks toward door</i>) He is coming! Strength, strength.
+O my God!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe throws door open. Turns and speaks as if to
+companions outside</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Goodnight, goodnight, brave Beauty&#8217;s fearless
+angels! (<i>Comes in</i>) Well, Dame Venus, what
+thoughts for your hobbling Vulcan?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Brightly</i>) My Hermes, you mean. <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sure
+you&#8217;re feather-footed, you go so far and fast.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Why, sweet-mouth, a kiss for that! (<i>Kisses her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, my love, you are dripping with the rain.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Well, and so are the trees. Not a leaf out
+there but is shaking her pearls. Who flies from Nature
+but man? Let her be terrible, glorious, worthy of his
+eyes and his heart, and forthwith he takes to his hole.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I hate her to-night. She kept me from following
+you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Virginia! (<i>Seizes her hands, crushing them in
+his, and gazing at her with fierce earnestness</i>) Never do
+that again! Never again! (<i>Lets her hands fall, and
+turns toward door as if he must go out. Her eyes follow
+him eagerly, but she tries to speak carelessly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Here are your dry things, dear, and <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> kept
+something hot for your supper.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page226" id="page226" title="226"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Turning</i>) Yes ... this is a very valuable skin
+of mine. Make it comfortable. But what of me, Virginia?
+That something here burning with fires that
+would brighten Olympos&#8217; head! Have you no welcome
+for me? (<i>Virginia is silent</i>) Why are you so pale? Light
+all the lamps! You should not sit in the dark. There are
+no stars in this den!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Hurriedly lighting lamp</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> sorry, love, but
+last night you wanted the dark&mdash;don&#8217;t you remember?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, I don&#8217;t remember. Memory is a hyena,
+always scratching up our dead selves! You must not
+remember, Virginia!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes, dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Forgive me, love. O, I am driving myself mad!
+Selling myself to the devil of prose that I may bring in
+that fool&#8217;s litter&mdash;money, money, money&mdash;and for what?
+That we may feed the flesh that devours our souls, and
+hang such rubbish as this on our backs! (<i>Sweeps garments
+from chair</i>) O, Virginia, if you were brave enough
+we would forget these rags of the body and go like
+spirits to meet our brothers of the night! They are all
+out there! Will you go with me, my bride?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Ha! You would rather ask them in to have
+something dry and something hot! But I must have the
+air! (<i>Throws door open. Lightning flashes on falling
+rain. Virginia shrinks from the wind</i>) Hear those
+winds! Gathering lost souls to the bosom of Night!
+Feel those drops! Every one of them the tear of a fallen
+god! O, is it nothing but rain? Ha! ha! ha! (<i>Virginia
+coughs. Poe closes the door hastily. She coughs
+again</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Don&#8217;t, Virginia!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes, dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My angel! (<i>Embraces her. She coughs</i>) O,
+<a class="page" name="page227" id="page227" title="227"></a>it is these wet clothes! (<i>Throws off coat, picks up
+dressing gown from the door and puts it on hurriedly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Eagerly</i>) Your slippers too, dear!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yes, yes, my slippers! (<i>Puts them on. Sits
+in big chair, taking her on his knee, and embracing her
+tenderly</i>) What made you cough, Virginia?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, <abbr>&#8217;t was</abbr> nothing, dear. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> all right now.
+Everything is all right.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Is it, little wisdom? O, ye gods!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Concealing anxiety</i>) Darling?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> What, my beautiful earth-bird?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You will take your supper now?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Impatiently</i>) No, no! Is there any wine in
+the house?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes, love, but&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I must have it! Quick! I shall faint.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) No, Edgar. It is food you need.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rising</i>) Where is it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, my dearest!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Tell me, Virginia! (<i>Goes toward a closet</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Getting before him</i>) If you were reaching for
+a cup of poison, Edgar, I would risk my life, ay, risk
+your love, to dash it from you. And wine is your poison.
+I can not let you drink death.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Death! It is all the life that is left to me, and
+you deny it!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Be quiet, love. You will wake our mother.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Down, gods, and let the lady sleep!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> She is not well, Edgar.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> But she will be well to-morrow, and I&mdash;I am
+immortally sick and you deny me a drop of wine.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, my poor boy! <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> so sorry for you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And is that all, O Heaven? <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> her poor boy,
+and she is so sorry for me! Why, <abbr>here &#8217;s</abbr> a heart that
+loosens in its throbs the birth-song of new stars! Come,
+<a class="page" name="page228" id="page228" title="228"></a>strike thy chime with mine, and though all bells upon
+the planet jingle, in us will still be music!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> O, Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Well?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I can not speak.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Virginia, Virginia! I pour out my soul to you!
+I keep back no drop of its sea! From the infinite,
+shrouded sources of life I rush to you in a thousand
+singing rivers, only to waste, to burn, to die on the
+sands of silence! (<i>She remains motionless, her head
+bowed</i>) ... It is so still upon the eternal peaks. Will
+you not come up with me and be the bride of my dreams?
+You need not speak ... you need not say a word. Only
+put the light of poesy in your eyes and let me <em>see</em> that
+through the channel of their beauty course the mysteries
+that begin with God and end not with time! (<i>She looks
+at him. He gazes into her eyes</i>) ... Tears ... only tears.
+(<i>Turns away</i>) Can a soul&#8217;s <em>eyes</em> be dumb? (<i>She
+sits, weeping silently</i>) ... Come then ... talk of what you
+will. Only talk! You have read a little Byron to-day?
+The new magazine came? And you have made me a
+handkerchief? (<i>She sobs. He looks at her remorsefully,
+crosses the room, gets her harp and brings it to the fireside</i>)
+Come ... sing to me, Virginia. You can do that.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Taking harp</i>) What shall I sing, dear?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Something to charm the very heart of &AElig;olus!
+That will turn a tempest into a violet&#8217;s breath!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Ah, my love!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, sing&mdash;sing anything!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Sings</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Great and calm, cool-bosomed blue,</span><br />
+<span>Take me to the heart of you!</span><br />
+<span>Not where thy blue mystery</span><br />
+<span>Sweeps the surface of the sea,</span><br />
+<span><a class="page" name="page229" id="page229" title="229"></a>Leaving in a dying gleam</span><br />
+<span>Living trouble of a dream;</span><br />
+<span>Not where loves of heaven lie</span><br />
+<span>Rosy &#8217;gainst the upper sky</span><br />
+<span>Burning with an ardent touch</span></p><!-- Blank line in original may be an error  -->
+
+<p class="italic"><span>Where an angel kissed too much;</span><br />
+<span>But where sight and sound come not,</span><br />
+<span>All of life and love forgot,</span><br />
+<span>All of Heaven forfeited</span><br />
+<span>For thy deep Nirvana bed.</span><br />
+<span>Wide and far enfolding blue,</span><br />
+<span>Take me to the heart&mdash;</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Her voice breaks suddenly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Virginia! (<i>She coughs</i>) Don&#8217;t! (<i>Her cough
+increases. She puts her handkerchief to her lips. Poe
+takes it from her hand and looks at it.</i>) Blood! (<i>Throws
+handkerchief into the fire, and stands as if paralyzed,
+gazing at Virginia. Falls at her feet and begins kissing
+her skirt</i>) My angel! my angel! I have killed my little
+bride!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Urging him gently up</i>) No, dear. I was
+marked for this from birth. My doom was written by
+Heaven, not you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Not doom, my Virginia! (<i>Rising</i>) I will save
+you, my darling! You shall have everything! With the
+sickle of a wish you shall harvest the earth! We will
+sail southern seas! We will follow the Spring as she
+flies! I will knock at the orient gates and bring thee the
+health of morning! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> make the world so bright for
+thee, Hyperion&#8217;s self shall wear new gold and shame remembered
+suns from chronicle! Spring from perfection&#8217;s
+heart shall pluck her buds, and set such gloss on Nature
+she may laud her old self in one violet&#8217;s requiem! O, <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr>
+<a class="page" name="page230" id="page230" title="230"></a>sing the world into a flower for thy bosom! My love,
+my love, my love! (<i>She coughs restrainedly. He hides
+his face till she stops</i>) Even the senseless oak velvets its
+rude sides to the tender vine! But I&mdash;a man&mdash;O, beast
+too vile for hell! too low to be damned!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do not touch me! is not the mark here?
+(<i>Touching his brow</i>) O, where shall I hide it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Drawing him to her</i>) On my bosom, Edgar.
+(<i>Presses him to the large chair and sits on the arm of it,
+caressing him</i>) This forehead is as pure as heaven-lit
+ivory of angels&#8217; brows!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, golden heart! (<i>Kisses her over her heart</i>)
+I will work so hard, Virginia! We shall be rich, and I
+will take you to some wonderful land where beauty can
+not die! Will you forgive me then when you are bright
+and strong in some happy isle of roses?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I will forgive you now, dearest, if you will do
+one thing for me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, what, my darling?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Eat the poor little supper I have cooked for
+you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yes&mdash;yes&mdash;<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> eat it though it be hell&#8217;s coals!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Now that&#8217;s a compliment to your cook, <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr>
+it? (<i>Takes food from oven and puts it on table. Poe
+eats, at first reluctantly, then hungrily</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> It is late&mdash;so late! O, my Lenore, you kept
+up for me! Your weary eyes would not close until they
+had found their lover! O, can you forgive me, and take
+me back to your heart? You will love me again?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Ah, Edgar, if love were enough we should
+always be happy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Love me, love me, dear! I want no more! And
+this cough ... we shall stop all that, darling! O, how
+weary you must be, and you tried to have everything so
+<a class="page" name="page231" id="page231" title="231"></a>beautiful for me! How pretty your dress is! You look
+like a Naiad smiling out of a lily. But <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> too cold!
+Here, I will wrap you! (<i>Puts shawl about her</i>) Ah,
+little wife, little wife, what evil power locked your gentle
+heart with mine? Bear with me, love. It will all be
+different soon. I shall try so hard the gods for pity will
+not let me fail! See how I have eaten! You may give
+me more, love. You did not cook this, I know. You
+stole it from Jove&#8217;s kitchen.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Getting food</i>) Yes, I did, and Jove caught me,
+but he let me go when I told him it was for a poet.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Little witch! (<i>Kisses her</i>) How happy we
+shall be, Virginia, as soon as I have money. I shall go to
+New York for a year. It will take only a year. Then I
+shall come back bringing the lady Fame with me, and
+you must not be jealous of her.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Slowly</i>) You&mdash;would not&mdash;take me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Why, the north-wind would blow the Spring
+from my little girl&#8217;s cheek! Just a year! That is the
+first step&mdash;a cruel one&mdash;but we shall be happy when it
+is over. Just a year, sweetheart! I must take no
+chances now! I <em>must</em> win!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You shall not leave me! A year will not hurt
+me, Edgar! But it would kill me to be left here ... and
+not know ... every minute....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do you care so much, Lenore? Then we will
+both stay here. It will take longer, but I will work
+harder&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Enough for to-night. We are too happy for
+to-morrows, Edgar. Now you must have a long, long
+sleep&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No, no! No bed for me to-night! I must
+work!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No bed, indeed! I did not say bed, my lord!
+You are going to sit down here (<i>Places him on footstool</i>)
+<a class="page" name="page232" id="page232" title="232"></a>and I shall sit here, (<i>settles in chair</i>) and your head
+in my lap&mdash;my hands on your head&mdash;and the crooningest
+of little songs will bring you the sweetest snatch of
+sleep that you ever, ever had!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> heaven, Virginia! But you are too
+tired, my angel. <em>You</em> must sleep.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> And so I shall when my lord shows me the way.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe drops his head on her lap. She turns down
+light. He falls asleep as she sings softly</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Like a fallen star on the breast of the sea</span><br />
+<span>My lover rests on the heart of me;</span><br />
+<span>The lord of the tempest hies him down</span><br />
+<span>From his billow-crest to his cavern-throne,</span><br />
+<span>And <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> peace as wide as the eye can see</span><br />
+<span>When my lover rests on the heart of me.</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. Virginia droops in sleep. No light but dull
+red coals.</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play3act4" id="play3act4"></a>ACT IV.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act4scene1" id="play3act4scene1"></a>Scene I: An old bookstore, New York. Bookseller
+arranging books. Helen at one side looking over shelves.
+Poe enters. He wears a military cloak and jaunty cap.
+Throws book on table and whistles carelessly.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> (<i>Looking book over doubtfully</i>) Forty
+cents.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Loudly</i>) Forty devils! (<i>Helen turns and
+recognizes him. He does not see her</i>) Look at that
+<a class="page" name="page233" id="page233" title="233"></a>binding. You can&#8217;t get a Shelley put up like that for less
+than ten dollars.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Aside</i>) My book!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> badly marked.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Marked! Of course <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> marked. And every
+mark there worth its dollar. In ten years <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> wish
+the marks were as thick as the letters.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> Say fifty, and strike off. Not a cent more.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Take it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> To sell my book! (<i>Moves slowly to door</i>)
+How pale he is! But he is neatly dressed. He can not
+need fifty cents. To sell my book! <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> speak to him
+and see if he is past shame. (<i>Steps before Poe as he
+turns to go out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Mr. Poe! Don&#8217;t you remember me? <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> delightful
+to meet an old friend.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Bowing low</i>) Mrs....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Yes, I am Mrs. Bridgmore.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My dear Mrs. Bridgmore! The pleasure of
+years gathers in this happy moment. Are you making
+holiday purchases?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> No ... just poking about. I love these old
+stores. I see <abbr>you &#8217;ve</abbr> made a sale. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> a relief to get rid
+of old books when <abbr>we &#8217;ve</abbr> lost our love for them, <abbr>is n&#8217;t</abbr> it?
+They take up good room on our shelves pretty much as
+people do in our lives long after we have ceased to care
+for their friendship. But what one is weary of another
+is ready to take up. (<i>To bookseller</i>) May I see the
+book the gentleman has just disposed of? (<i>To Poe</i>)
+Anything you have liked will be sure to please me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, you are mistaken! I am simply leaving
+the book to be duplicated if possible for a friend of mine
+who has taken a fancy to my copy. (<i>Gesticulates to
+bookseller</i>) One glance, Mrs. Bridgmore, will tell you
+that the book is not for sale.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page234" id="page234" title="234"></a><strong>Hel.</strong> Ah ... of course not. Pardon the mistake. It
+seems to be my fate to blunder where you are concerned.
+(<i>Icily</i>) Good morning, Mr. Poe.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>As she is going out she drops her purse. Poe hastens
+to pick it up and restores it to her with a bow. In
+doing so he forgets his shabby coat and throws back his
+cloak over his arm, exposing a badly worn sleeve. He
+becomes suddenly conscious of her observation, and
+straightens up in his most dignified fashion</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Thank you. (<i>Goes out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Turning to bookseller</i>) Here! Take your
+damned silver! Give me my book!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> A <abbr>bargain &#8217;s</abbr> a bargain, sir.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Bargain! bargain! Do you call that theft a
+bargain? You parasite! you bookgnat! You insect
+feeding on men&#8217;s brains! You worm in the corpse of
+genius! My book, I say, or by Hector <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> tear your
+goose-liver from your body, you pocket-itching Jacob!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> Here! take it!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> your Judas&#8217; blood! (<i>Throws down
+money and starts out with the book. Enter Brackett</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Brackett.</strong> (<i>Stopping Poe</i>) Mr. Poe, I believe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Right, sir. And Brackett, I think your name
+was when I knew you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> Quite right, Mr. Poe. I saw you coming in
+here, and though you have changed somewhat with the
+help of years I was sure it was you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And how, Mr. Brackett, may that knowledge
+be of interest to you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> Well, perhaps it does concern you more than
+myself.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Kindly tell me in what way that I may regret
+it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> Your pen has been supplying matter for <em>The
+Comet</em>, I believe.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page235" id="page235" title="235"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> If you have any doubt of it a perusal of that
+magazine&#8217;s issues for the past two years will satisfy you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> The returns therefrom have contributed somewhat
+to your comfort, I suppose.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> Ah, I am mistaken? Then I have less hesitation
+to tell you that the articles recently submitted are
+unavailable.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <em>You</em> tell me! What have you to do with it?
+Who are you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> I am the present editor of <em>The Comet</em>.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> You!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> I! You see I am in a position to speak with
+authority,&mdash;and it is only just to tell you that your articles
+will meet with no further recognition in that
+quarter.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Brackett ... I have been very ill. I wrote
+those things on what I believed to be my death bed. My
+wife....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> I should say then that you are in great need of
+money.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> God help me, I am! You know I am not one
+to beg!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bra.</strong> But <abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> beg or starve with you, eh? (<i>Poe
+looks at him silently</i>) Well, I should advise you to make
+application without loss of time to some one who does
+not know you quite so well as the new editor of <em>The
+Comet</em>. Good morning.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Calling to him as he stands in door</i>) I say,
+Brackett! (<i>Brackett turns</i>) <em>I</em> should advise <em>you</em> to
+change the name of <em>The Comet</em> as well as its editor.
+Suppose you call it <em>The Falling Star</em>? Ha! ha! (<i>Exit
+Brackett</i>) Curse me for a whining dog&mdash;but Virginia&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Goes out</i>)</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page236" id="page236" title="236"></a><strong>Bookseller.</strong> (<i>Arranging books</i>) Queer chap. We
+public men get to know all sorts. That book will be
+mine yet. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> a good seller at ten dollars, and blest if
+I <abbr>would n&#8217;t</abbr> like to help the wretch out with fifty cents.
+<abbr>He &#8217;ll</abbr> be back.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Enter Helen</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> I wish to buy the book the gentleman has just
+left with you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> Why ma&#8217;am, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> gone and took it
+with him.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Took it with him?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> Yes, ma&#8217;am, and thereby <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> lost time
+and trade. (<i>Aside</i>) <abbr>She &#8217;d</abbr> give fifteen!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> He needed money?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bookseller.</strong> Well, I should <em>guess</em> so, ma&#8217;am. That&#8217;s
+the last book he had. He told me about it before.
+<abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> been bringin&#8217; them all here. I <em>think</em> <abbr>he &#8217;ll</abbr> be back,
+ma&#8217;am, and <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> keep the book for you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Thank you. (<i>Turns to go. Sees letter on the
+floor and picks it up</i>) Why, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> ... he dropped it! I
+wonder if I may ... he is suffering ... that shabby
+coat ... and he is so proud. I think I ought to read it.
+I must know where to find him. (<i>Looks at letter</i>) Fordham!
+(<i>Reads</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>My Dear Son: One last prayer the mother of your
+Virginia makes to you. She is dying. Come and sit by
+her and she will carry a smile to her grave. Do not
+stay away because you can not bear to witness her suffering,&mdash;because
+you have nothing to give her. Come,
+and by your loving presence lessen her pain. God bless
+you! Your devoted mother,</p>
+
+<p class="sig"><em class="sc">Maria Clemm.</em></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>(<i>Helen stands trembling and holding the letter</i>) ...
+And I hurt him ... I hurt him....</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act4scene2" id="play3act4scene2"></a><a class="page" name="page237" id="page237" title="237"></a>Scene II: Poe&#8217;s cottage, Fordham. A room almost
+bare. Virginia sleeping on bed. Poe&#8217;s cloak over her.
+Mrs. Clemm kneeling in prayer beside her. Poe enters,
+carrying a bundle of broken sticks which he lays down
+softly, one by one, on the hearth, looking anxiously toward
+the bed. Mrs. Clemm rises and comes to the fire)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My child, you have been out in the snow
+without your cloak! (<i>Brushes snow from his shoulders</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Could I take the least warmth from yon shivering
+angel?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You forget that you, too, are ill. O, my
+boy, be careful, or I shall soon be childless in the world.
+One is already lost....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Not lost. See how she sleeps! She is better.
+I know she is better.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Since you came. We will hope so, dear.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> If she would only speak to us! O, why does
+she not speak? Not once to-day.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She is very weak, my son.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I could bear it so long as she could tell us there
+was no pain ... but now she only looks at us.... Oh&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> You will control yourself for her sake.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yes, yes, for her sake.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> It will take her last breath to see you disturbed.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I know! I know! Have no fear, mother. I
+am strong now.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Edgar! (<i>He flies to the bed</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> My darling!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> I am better, dear. Mamma! (<i>Mrs. Clemm
+goes to her</i>) I feel so rested, mamma.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I told you! She is better! And you will sit
+up a little now, dear? I will carry you to the fire.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My boy!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, mother, don&#8217;t you see how well she is?
+<a class="page" name="page238" id="page238" title="238"></a>Look at her cheeks&mdash;her eyes&mdash;how beautiful!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Smiling</i>) Hear him, mamma! How proud he
+is! He must always have it that his wife is beautiful.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> But it is so true, my dearest!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Let me believe it, for it is sweet to think that I
+have been that, at least, to you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, my darling, you have been everything!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You think so now, dear, and I love to hear
+you say it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> And you will get well for me?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> No, O no! That would bring all your troubles
+back. You will live a great life, Edgar, when you have
+left this little care-bundle of a wife behind you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, don&#8217;t, Virginia! I shall do nothing without
+you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You will do everything. I am the wise one
+now, Edgar. And, dear, while I can talk ... I must ask
+you ... must beg you ... I must hear you say that you
+forgive me.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Forgive you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes, dear. I was so young ... I thought I
+could help you ... and so I let you marry me. I did
+not know. I thought because I loved you so much that
+I could make you happy. But women who can only love
+are not the women who help. They must be wise and
+strong too, and oh, so many other wonderful things. If
+they are not, then all the love only hurts and makes
+things go wrong.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, little angel!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Yes ... little angel ... when I ought to have
+been a brave, great angel who could bear heaven on her
+wings. Long ago I knew it, Edgar. When the truth
+came I looked every way and there was no help. Then
+when I found I was to die, it seemed that God had pitied
+and helped me. For that was the only way.... O,
+<a class="page" name="page239" id="page239" title="239"></a>these little women who can do nothing but love! I wish
+I could take them all with me. These tears are for
+them, not for myself, darling. O, I am happy, but they
+must wait ... they can not die. How you shiver! You
+must take your cloak. I am warm now. Indeed, I am
+quite comfortable.... Don&#8217;t&mdash;don&#8217;t weep. You
+must be happy because I am. Let us smile the rest of
+the time, darling,&mdash;it&mdash;is such a little while.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Brokenly</i>) Yes ... yes.... O little flower,
+little flower, dropping back to God&#8217;s bosom, how have I
+dared to touch thee!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Rubbing her hand on his arm</i>) <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> damp!
+You have been out? O, my dear, you must, must take
+your cloak! I am quite, quite warm! See, feel my
+hands! (<i>Smiling</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Taking her hands</i>) Little icicles!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> You have been out! O, save yourself for the
+great things ... now I am going out of your way.
+Don&#8217;t let my death be as vain as my life. Let that count
+for something, Edgar. O, promise me you will live for
+your genius&#8217; sake, you will be true to your heavenly gift!
+Kneel by me and promise!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I ... promise.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> Dear husband ... I.... (<i>faints</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, she is gone!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No! She faints! My beautiful idol! O, some
+wine! Heaven and earth for some wine!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She looks at us! My daughter!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, do not try to speak! Let your beautiful
+eyes do all the talking!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She looks toward the fire. She would have
+you go, Edgar, and try to keep warm. Come, dear.
+(<i>Poe kisses Virginia gently, and goes to fireside, looking
+back adoringly</i>) Do not look at her, and she will sleep
+again.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page240" id="page240" title="240"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> Ah, God! It will take more than sleep to help
+her. And I can give her nothing&mdash;nothing!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Don&#8217;t, Edgar! Remember your terrible illness&mdash;how
+you worked for her when fever was burning
+your brain&mdash;until your pen fell from your hand.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I brought her to this land of ice and snow!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> No. Destiny brought her. We lost our
+home. Your work was here&mdash;and she would not stay
+behind you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> A <em>man</em> would have saved her!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, my boy, do not take this burden on your
+soul! For once spare yourself!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I can not even give her food!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Restraining him</i>) My son, she sleeps.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yes ... sleep ... let me not rob her of that too!
+Be quiet ... just be quiet ... while she dies. (<i>Seats
+himself with strange calmness</i>) Come, mother, let us be
+cheerful. Take this chair. Let us be rational. Let us
+think. Death is strange only because we do not think
+enough. God must breathe. Life is the exhalation,
+death the inhalation of deity. He breathes out, and the
+Universe flames forth with all her wings&mdash;her suns and
+clusters of suns&mdash;down to her mote-like earth, the butterfly
+of space, trimmed with its gaudy seasons, and
+nourishing on its back the parasitical ephemeran, Man!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> My love&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Be calm, mother. Be calm. Then the great <ins title="Hyphenated across line-break in original">inbreathing</ins>
+begins. The creative warmth no longer goes
+out. The parasites vanish first, then the worlds on which
+they ride, and last the mighty suns,&mdash;all sink into the
+still, potential unity, and await the recurrent breath
+which may bear another universe, unlike our own,
+where the animate may control the inanimate, the organic
+triumph over the inorganic,&mdash;(<i>rising</i>) ay, man himself
+may dominate nature, control the relentless ecliptic,
+<a class="page" name="page241" id="page241" title="241"></a>and say to the ages of ice and fire &lsquo;Ye shall not tread on
+me!&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I beg your pardon. We must be calm. (<i>Resumes
+his seat</i>) But God will not stop breathing (<i>with
+bitter sarcasm</i>) though your daughter&mdash;and my wife&mdash;is
+dying. (<i>Mrs. Clemm weeps. He turns to the window</i>)
+Do you know that elephants once nibbled boughs
+out there where the snow is falling? They ran a mighty
+race&mdash;and died&mdash;but no tears were shed. In the records
+of the cosmos, if man is written down at all, I think he
+will be designated as the &lsquo;weeping animal.&rsquo;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Are you human?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I regret that I belong to that feeble and
+limited variety of creation, but with the next self-diffusion
+of the concentrated Infinite I may be the Sun
+himself!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, my mother-heart!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Think a little more and you will forget it. The
+heart makes the being there on the bed your daughter&mdash;my
+wife&mdash;but the mind makes her a part of the divine
+force which has chosen her shape for its visible flower.
+The heart is wrung by the falling of the bloom, for it is
+endeared to that only, but the mind rejoices in its reunited
+divinity. Come.... (<i>Moves a step toward the bed</i>)
+I can look on her now ... and be quiet. Sweet rose, I can
+watch your petals fall. But they fall early ... they fall
+early ... blasted in the May. Not by the divine breath
+drawing you home, but by my mortal, shattering hand!
+I promised you sun and dew.... I have given you frost
+and shadows. O God! O God! let me <em>not</em> think! Keep
+me a little, weeping child!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Dear son, cast out this bitterness. Only
+your love and devotion have kept her alive so long.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> No! I touched her like a wing of doom, and
+<a class="page" name="page242" id="page242" title="242"></a>she fell blasted! (<i>She tries to soothe him</i>) No, no! Call
+devils from hell to curse me!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>A knock at the door. Mrs. Clemm opens it and a
+basket is delivered to her. Poe, deep in agony, does not
+notice. She takes things from the basket</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> O, Edgar! Wine, and soft blankets!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>He looks up, and rushes across to her</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Wine! wine! O, spirit that bendest from pitying
+clouds, a mortal thanks thee! Quick, mother, these
+drops of strength will give her back to us!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She sleeps, my son, which is ease more precious
+than these drops can give.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Taking bottle</i>) Give it to me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Edgar, Edgar, do not wake her!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Lenore, Lenore, out of thy dream, though
+<abbr>&#8217;t were</abbr> the fairest ever blown to mortal from Elysium!
+This will put thee to such smiles that dreams&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Be quiet, for God&#8217;s sake!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Quiet! <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> a word for clods and stones!
+<abbr>You &#8217;d</abbr> hold me from her when my hand brings life?
+(<i>Rushes to cupboard and gets a glass which he fills</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> Just a little, Edgar. Too much would&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> She shall drink it all, by Heaven! I will save
+her!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Mrs. Clemm sinks to a chair, helpless and sobbing.
+A knock at the door which neither hears. Enter Helen.
+As Poe turns to approach the bed he faces her, stares,
+and lets the glass drop shivering</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> You!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> I, Edgar. You see I can remember my friends&mdash;and
+<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> come to scold you for not&mdash;letting me know&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> It was you who sent&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Some blankets soft as summer clouds for the
+most beautiful lady in the world? And wine delicate
+enough for a fairy&#8217;s throat? I knew you would not
+<a class="page" name="page243" id="page243" title="243"></a>have it else. (<i>Turns to Mrs. Clemm</i>) You do not know
+me, but&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> (<i>Taking her hand</i>) I know you are a good
+woman reaching a hand to me in my sorrow.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>Embracing her</i>) No ... my arms!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Poe goes to bed and kneels by Virginia. Speaks
+softly to her, then rises and brings a little wine</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Just a drop, dear,&mdash;a butterfly&#8217;s portion.</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Virginia drinks</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> (<i>To Mrs. Clemm</i>) How is she?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> She will have but one more word for us&mdash;goodbye.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Can I&mdash;may&mdash; O, you must let me do something
+for her&mdash;for you! Do not make me miserable by
+saying there is nothing I can do.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> There is ... something. I have never
+begged&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> Do not use such a word. It is you who give&mdash;make
+me happy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. C.</strong> But I will beg this. Some linen for her last
+robe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> God bless you for telling me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rising from his knees by Virginia</i>) Helen,
+Virginia would speak to you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Hel.</strong> O, save the precious breath! (<i>Approaches
+bed</i>) Ah ... how lovely ... I understand....</p>
+
+<p><strong>Vir.</strong> (<i>Lifting her head</i>) Helen ... help my Edgar.
+(<i>Sinks back. Poe lays his head on her pillow. Helen
+stands with her arm about Mrs. Clemm. Curtain falls,
+and rises on same room at night. Virginia&#8217;s body lies
+on the bed. Poe watches alone. A candle burns on
+table</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Standing by bed</i>) ... So low in sleep, little
+girl?... I took thee mid thy roses. O, broken gentleness,
+little saint-love, move but a hand, a finger, to tell
+<a class="page" name="page244" id="page244" title="244"></a>me thou art still my pleading angel!... Not one breath&#8217;s
+life. Still ... quite still. O, might such rest be mine!
+(<i>Turns away</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> write. (<i>Goes to table</i>) I promised.
+Yes ... <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> write. Behind the glorious chancel of the
+mind still swings the incense to the deathless gods!...
+(<i>Sits and writes</i>) ... No. (<i>Rising</i>) No rhymes&mdash;for
+Poesy must mourn to-night. (<i>Goes toward bed</i>) Too
+much of her is dead. (<i>Gazes at Virginia</i>) Cold ... cold.
+What art thou death? Ye demons of a mind distraught,
+keep ye apace till I have fathomed this!... Ha! What
+scene is that? (<i>Stares as at visions</i>) A valley laid in
+the foundations of darkness! The unscalable cliffs jut
+to heaven, and on the amethystine peaks sit angels weeping
+into the abyss where creatures run to and fro without
+escape! Some eat, some laugh, some weep, some
+wonder. Now they make themselves candles whose little
+beams eclipse the warning stars ... and in the pallid light
+they dance and think it sun! But on the revel creeps a
+serpent, fanned and crimson, with multitudinous folds
+lapping the dancing creatures in one heaving carnage!
+The candles die.... The stars cannot pierce the writhing
+darkness.... Above on the immortal headlands sit the
+angels, looking down no more, for the dismal heap no
+longer throbs.... I must write this! Now! While
+I see it! That moaning flood ebbing to silence ... those
+rosy promontories lit with angel wings ... and over all
+as large and still as heaven, the cold, unweeping eyes of
+God!... (<i>Writes.... A tapping at the door. He does
+not hear. Another tapping. He looks up</i>) <abbr>Who &#8217;s</abbr>
+there?... This is my vigil. Nor devil nor angel shall
+share it!... (<i>Listens. Tapping. He goes to door and
+throws it open</i>) ... Nothing ... nothing ... but darkness.
+(<i>Stands peering, and whispers</i>) Lenore!... (<i>Closes door,
+bolts it, returns to table and writes silently. Utter stillness,
+then a rattling at the window. Poe leaps up</i>)
+<a class="page" name="page245" id="page245" title="245"></a><abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> that? (<i>The shutter is blown open. Poe stands
+watching. A raven flies in and perches above door</i>) Out,
+you night-wing! (<i>He looks at raven silently</i>) You won&#8217;t?
+Why, sit there then! You&#8217;re but a feather! (<i>Sits and
+writes. After a moment rises and reads</i>)</p>
+
+<blockquote><p class="italic"><span>Out&mdash;out are the lights&mdash;out all!</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;And over each quivering form,</span><br />
+<span>The curtain, a funeral pall,</span><br />
+<span>Comes down with the rush of a storm&mdash;</span><br />
+<span>And the angels all pallid and wan,</span><br />
+<span class="i1">&nbsp;&nbsp;Uprising, unveiling affirm</span><br />
+<span>That the play is the tragedy &lsquo;Man!&rsquo;</span><br />
+<span>And its hero the Conqueror Worm!</span></p></blockquote>
+
+<p>Ah! the thought pales from these lines like light from
+dying cinders. Poetry is but ashes telling that a fire has
+passed. (<i>Sits gloomily. Suddenly remembers the raven,
+turns and stares at it</i>) You bird of damnation, leave
+me in peace with my dead!... O, dreaming fool, <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr>
+nothing.... My <abbr>mind &#8217;s</abbr> a chaos that surges up this
+fancy. (<i>Tries to write, stops, goes on, trembles, and
+looks up</i>) ... Can I know fear? I, the very nursling of
+dreams? Who have lived in a world more tenanted
+with ghosts than men? I can not be afraid.... (<i>Tries
+to write. Drops pen. Shudders, looking with furtive
+fear at the raven</i>) ... I am ... I am afraid.... Virginia!
+(<i>Creeps toward bed</i>) Stay with me, little bride.
+My little rose-bride! (<i>Fingers along coverlet, looking
+at raven</i>) Do not leave me. Quick, little love! Give me
+life in a kiss! (<i>Touches her hand, shrinks, and springs
+up</i>) Dead!... (<i>Leans against foot of bed, wildly facing
+the raven</i>) Speak, fiend! From what dim region of
+unbodied souls hast come? What hell ungorged thee for
+her messenger? What sentence have the devils passed
+<a class="page" name="page246" id="page246" title="246"></a>upon me? To what foul residence in some blasted star
+am I condemned? Speak! By every sigh that poisons
+happy breath!&mdash;by every misery that in me rocks and
+genders her swart young!&mdash;by yonder life that now in
+golden ruin lies!&mdash;I charge thee speak! How long shall
+I wander without rest? How long whirl in the breath
+of unforgiving winds? Or burn in the refining forges of
+the sun? When will the Universe gather me to her heart
+and give me of her still, unthrobbing peace? Speak!
+When&mdash;O when will this driven spirit be at home?</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Silence. Poe listens with intense expectation and
+fear. The raven flies out</i>) It spoke! (<i>Hoarsely</i>) It
+spoke! I heard it! (<i>Whispers</i>) Nevermore! (<i>He falls
+in a swoon. Candle flickers in the wind and goes out.
+Darkness</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<h3><a name="play3act5" id="play3act5"></a>ACT V.</h3>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act5scene1" id="play3act5scene1"></a>Scene I: Poe&#8217;s lodging, Baltimore. Small room.
+Cot, table, and one chair. Poe writing)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Pressing his temples</i>) Throb&mdash;throb&mdash;but
+you shall finish this. (<i>Writes</i>) You, too, rebel, old pen?
+On, on like a lusty cripple, and <abbr>we &#8217;ll</abbr> scratch out of this
+hole. (<i>Lifting pen</i>) Why, old fellow, this will buy
+bread. O, bread, bread, bread, for one sweet crumb of
+thee to feed an angel here! (<i>Touching his forehead</i>)
+Gordon will not fail me. His letter will come to-day.
+<a class="page" name="page247" id="page247" title="247"></a>And with his help <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> get on good ground once more.
+And <em>then</em>!... (<i>Writes. Drops pen with a groan</i>) ... Gordon&#8217;s
+letter <em>must</em> come to-day. O, I would live, would
+live, for seeds are gendering in my mind that might their
+branches throw above the clouds and shake immortal
+buds to this bare earth!... (<i>Looks at writing</i>) Words!
+Ye are but coffins for imagination! No more of you!
+(<i>Crushes paper</i>) <abbr>Eternity &#8217;s</abbr> in labor with this hour!
+(<i>Leaps up</i>) I could make Time my page to carry memories
+from star to star! O Heaven, wouldst thou vouchsafe
+thy visions to these eyes, then fill them with cold
+clay? Pour to these ears thine own philosophies, then
+send the crawling worm to pluck their treasure out?
+(<i>Falls to chair. Enter Mrs. Schmidt</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> (<i>Holding out letter</i>) Here it is, sir.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rousing</i>) What, Smidgkin?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> The <abbr>letter &#8217;s</abbr> come, sir.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Thank you. (<i>Takes letter. Mrs. Schmidt
+waits expectantly</i>) If you will be so good, Smidgkin&mdash;I
+mean if you will be so cruel as to bereave me of your
+presence while I break this very personal seal&mdash;very personal,
+I assure you&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> No, sir. I stay to see <abbr>what &#8217;s</abbr> inside o&#8217;
+that!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Since you desire it, madam. (<i>Starts to open
+letter and hesitates</i>) I&mdash;hope you are well, my good
+Smidgkin.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Always am. <abbr>Had n&#8217;t</abbr> you better see <abbr>what &#8217;s</abbr>
+in it?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> To be sure.... I hope you have a good fire in
+your room this chilly weather, Smidgkin.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Always do. <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> break it for you, Mr. Poe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, no, no! I <abbr>could n&#8217;t</abbr> think of troubling you.
+The rain beats very heavily. I hope your-er-roof will not
+be injured.</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page248" id="page248" title="248"></a><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Law me, I had every leaf tinkered up them
+sunny days last week. I believe in preparin&#8217; for a rainy
+day, <em>I</em> do, Mr. Poe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Indeed, yes,&mdash;if only we were all so wise, but,
+alas, my dear Smidgkin, some of us build so high that
+the angels have to come down and tinker our roofs ...
+and when they won&#8217;t, Smidgkin ... when they won&#8217;t
+(<i>Lays letter on the table</i>) ... I hope you have no errands
+to take you from your cheerful fireside in weather
+like this, Mrs. Smidgkin.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> My name is Schmidt, Mr. Poe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Pardon me, madam.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Air you a goin&#8217; to open that letter or air
+you not?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Why, good woman, to be sure I am. I did not
+know you were particularly interested. Excuse me.
+Here goes&mdash;and God mend the devil&#8217;s work. (<i>Opens
+letter and reads</i>) &lsquo;I have talked with Brackett&mdash;&rsquo;
+Brackett! (<i>Drops letter and sits dumb</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> He sent you the ten dollars, hey? Where is
+it, hey? Seems to me that&#8217;s white paper with mighty
+few marks on it! Not much like a ten dollar bill! Where
+is it, I say? Lost in the mailbags, I reckon! It will
+come by next post! You&#8217;re certain&mdash;quite certain,
+Smidgkin! I tell you, Mr. Poe, this is once too often!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> A bare, unfurnished room like this&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Is worth just a dollar a week to me, which
+is exactly a dollar more than you can pay!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Mrs. Smidgkin, there is a legend in the world
+that pity never wholly leaves the breast of woman.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Shame to your tongue, Mr. Poe, that says I
+<abbr>have n&#8217;t</abbr> been as kind to you as your own mother&mdash;sister!
+<abbr>Have n&#8217;t</abbr> you had this room nigh to a month since
+<abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> seen a cent for it? <abbr>Did n&#8217;t</abbr> I give you stale bread a
+whole week, an&#8217; coffee a Sunday mornin&#8217;? An&#8217; you
+<a class="page" name="page249" id="page249" title="249"></a>dare say <abbr>I &#8217;m</abbr> not a Christian, merciful woman? You
+come out o&#8217; here, or <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> put hands on you, I will!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Mrs. Smidgkin, Mrs. Smidgkin, are you aware
+that the rain pours outside like the tears of the Danaides
+on their wedding night? And speaking of weddings,
+Smidgkin&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Schmidt! As <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> find on my good man&#8217;s
+tombstone, an&#8217; some day on my own, bless God!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> O, don&#8217;t talk so, I beg you!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Why now, Mr. Poe! Law me, <abbr>who &#8217;d</abbr> a
+thought you could be so softhearted&mdash;about a tombstone,
+too!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> As I said, my dear madam&mdash;speaking of weddings&mdash;pray
+take this chair. <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> all I have to offer.
+Gladly will I stand before you, though I am but slightly
+bolstered within for the attitude. Speak to me, madam.
+Let one thought fly from thy caging brow to me a beggar
+vile.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> O, Mr. Poe!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Thanks for the burden of those syllables.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> My dear Mr. Poe!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Again? You overwhelm me? Dare I speak?
+You have suspected? You know why I linger in this
+dear room&mdash;dear as the barrier that staves off guttery
+death? This kindness is sincere? I may trust it and
+speak?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> You may, Mr. Poe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Well then, sweet Smidgkin, will you open the
+broad gates of genial widowhood to admit a fallen
+wretch to the warmth of your bosom and hearthstone&mdash;particularly
+the latter?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> (<i>With dignity</i>) I presume, Mr. Poe, that I
+am addressed by an offer of marriage. I have had
+offers before, Mr. Poe,&mdash;one an undertaker who drove a
+good business, but he looked for all the world like one of
+<a class="page" name="page250" id="page250" title="250"></a>his own corpses an&#8217; what is business says I to a woman
+in good circumstances with a longin&#8217; heart? I don&#8217;t
+mind sayin&#8217; it, Mr. Poe, a nice lookin&#8217; man always did
+take my eye, an&#8217; <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> be a pretty figure when you&#8217;re
+plumped out a bit, indeed you will, but your addresses
+of this offer is somewhat unusual, an&#8217; if <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> give me
+time&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> The weather, madam, will admit of no delay.
+Since you are so determined, I must give up hope and
+seek shelter under Jove&#8217;s great canopy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> O, don&#8217;t go there, Mr. Poe&mdash;<abbr>it &#8217;s</abbr> a bad
+place, that Canpy house, an&#8217; <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> heard Jove talked
+about for a vile barkeep! I guess since you&#8217;re so
+impetus <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> say yes to these addresses of marriage, Mr.
+Poe.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Ha! ha! ha!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> What do you mean, Mr. Poe? My dear
+Eddie, I should say!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I mean, madam, that death loves a joke.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> O, my sweet Eddie, don&#8217;t be talkin&#8217; about
+death. You&#8217;re so pale I don&#8217;t wonder&mdash;and a&#8217;most
+starved out <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> venture my word for it. But you won&#8217;t
+know yourself in a week. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> got the sweetest room
+downstairs&mdash;all in blue an&#8217; white, with a bed three
+feet o&#8217; feathers, soft as a goosebreast, I warrant, an&#8217;
+<abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> tuck you in an&#8217; bring you a toddy <abbr>that &#8217;ll</abbr> warm you
+to your toes, it will, an&#8217;&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Ha! ha! ha! Well, why not? I seize this
+wretched plank or sink with all that in me is. Men have
+done it. But not Edgar Poe! Sell my soul for a broth-dish&mdash;a
+saucepan&mdash;a feather-bed&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> O, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> out of his mind, sure he is! My
+sweet Eddie, <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> loved me distracted!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Can this be woman?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Law me!</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page251" id="page251" title="251"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> The sex that knew a Virginia&mdash;that knows a
+Helen? No! there are men, women ... and angels!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> Look here, Mr. Poe, don&#8217;t you mention no
+women &#8217;round me! O, Eddy, my Eddy! (<i>Offers to
+caress him</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Away! You wench from Venus&#8217; kitchen!
+(<i>Going</i>) This weather ... once I could have braved it
+with the wildest wing that ever flew. But now....
+(<i>coughs wretchedly</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Mrs. S.</strong> No rent an&#8217; no husband either!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Up, heart, we go! Henceforth I live by spirit-bread!
+Lead me, ye unseen comrades, to immortal
+feasts! (<i>Exit</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+
+<p class="italic scene"><a name="play3act5scene2" id="play3act5scene2"></a>Scene II: An hour later. A bar-room. Door in
+center, rear. Four men at table, left, rear, playing cards.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Haines.</strong> Was afraid you <abbr>would n&#8217;t</abbr> show up to-night,
+Juggy.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Juggers.</strong> Nothing like a stormy night for a good
+game. Never miss one. Rain brings me luck.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Black.</strong> Then, by Jacks, <abbr>you &#8217;ll</abbr> have it all your way
+to-night. <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> pouring hogsheads. Your deal, Sharp.
+(<i>They play in silence. Poe enters, rear, walks uncertainly
+across the room and takes a seat, right, front.
+There seems to be life only in his eyes, their burning light
+revealing a soul struggling free from a corpse. He sits
+unnoticed for a short time</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> (<i>To barkeeper</i>) Say, Thomas, I thought
+this was a gentleman&#8217;s house. <abbr>What &#8217;s</abbr> that in the corner?
+Looks like a coffin might &#8217;a&#8217; spilt it on the way to
+the graveyard.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> (<i>In lower tone</i>) <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> one o&#8217; these writin&#8217;
+<a class="page" name="page252" id="page252" title="252"></a>fellers in hard luck. <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> let him hang around here a
+good deal, for <abbr>he &#8217;s</abbr> always quiet and gives me no show
+for kickin&#8217; him out. But say the word and he goes.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Haines.</strong> Looks more like a sick man than a bum.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Bah! He can drink till he wets his boots.
+I know that sort of a face.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> Never drinks anything &#8217;round here.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Good reason. You don&#8217;t wear a charity
+medal.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Jug.</strong> Let him stay for luck.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Whose luck? You&#8217;re doing all the winning
+to-night, Juggers. <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> a Jonah for the rest of us. I
+want his eye off me, I say.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Black.</strong> O, let him alone. <abbr>I &#8217;d</abbr> ask a burglar to have
+a seat in my house a night like this&mdash;&#8217;pon honor, I
+would. Play up. (<i>They play on</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> What a noble palace is here! How the
+gleaming vault reaches to heaven and mocks the stars!
+What resplendent lights! As though the master had
+taken burning planets for his candles! How far they
+throw their beams&mdash;around the world and into the
+nether sea!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Jug.</strong> (<i>To Haines, who is looking at Poe</i>) Mind
+your play there, Haines.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I know this place. It is the poet&#8217;s house of
+dream that all my life <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> sought to reach. I am dying
+now, and they let me in, because I have been true to
+them. The master will read it in my face. I have not
+eaten of the flesh-pots! I have beggared my body, but
+I have not beggared my soul!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Curse it, Juggers! <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> yours again!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Haines.</strong> Take your medicine, Sharp. A man must
+know how to lose as well as win.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Yonder is the master, arrayed all in white and
+gold and sapphire. Those angels that attend him are
+<a class="page" name="page253" id="page253" title="253"></a>poets wrapped in fires of love. They talk about me
+now, and ask if I am worthy to come in. O, I have
+loved ye well, immortal dead! Through noons that
+burnt the world <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> tracked your dewy shadows! No
+day died in my eyes but ye were whispering priests!
+And midnight stars have learned your names of me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> (<i>Throwing down cards</i>) <abbr>It &#8217;s</abbr> that hoodoo
+in the corner!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> How wonderful their voices! They speak a
+strange language, but I can interpret it.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> not play another card until he goes!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> He says that by the trembling of the planet-lights
+an earth-soul come this way. He sees me!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Black.</strong> Well, by Jacks, <abbr>I &#8217;ve</abbr> got a dollar for his
+supper and bed.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> He says that <abbr>&#8217;t is</abbr> a strange creature carrying a
+burning brand in his bosom.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> You can afford to be a fool. <abbr>You &#8217;ve</abbr> helped
+Juggers rake in.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Not a brand, he says, but an immortal star.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Thomas, set that oil painting outside, will
+you?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> They ask the master if they may come to meet
+me. (<i>Barkeeper approaches Poe</i>) Ah, the master comes
+himself, for I am one of the chosen.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Barkeeper.</strong> Get out o&#8217; this!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Rising slowly</i>) Thou mighty one, thy servant
+hears thee!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> Eh?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> be the humblest round thy throne.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> Look here, I was a little soft about you, but
+now you just shove along!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I beg your pardon,&mdash;may I ask the name of
+this planet?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> Eh?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page254" id="page254" title="254"></a><strong>Poe.</strong> Is it&mdash;the earth?</p>
+
+<p><strong>Bark.</strong> (<i>Shaking him</i>) None o&#8217; your squibs!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> (<i>Recognizing and throwing him off with
+momentary strength</i>) Do not touch me, George
+Thomas. I will go.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Black.</strong> (<i>Flinging him a piece of silver, which falls to
+the floor</i>) <abbr>There &#8217;s</abbr> a bed for you.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> I dare not touch it, sir, lest I be infected, for
+the angels who look upon us know that I shall be in
+health when fever shall sit on your bones and agues
+make their bed in your marrow!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Jug.</strong> A gentleman can&#8217;t stand that jaw. Kick him
+out, Thomas, or I will.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Do not touch me! You walking clay! who
+button your coats about three meals a day and think
+you have belted in the universe! Go listen to the sea
+lapping rock and bone to her oblivious mill, and know
+your hearts shall sleep as sand within her shells! By
+the dead worlds that drift in yonder void, and long have
+sung the swan-song of their deities, this too shall pass,
+and ere it passes flesh shall learn its impotence! Grey
+stalkers from the past shall clutch the throat of days!
+All wrongs shall rise and gather their revenge! And
+man&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Sharp.</strong> Here you crazy Tom! That&#8217;s just enough!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Tries to take hold of Poe</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> Off! See what I see! The Conqueror Worm!
+Fold on fold the red-fanged monster creeps! Look!
+your doom, ye swine with sodden eyes fast shut against
+sublimities! Ye&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><strong>Jug.</strong> (<i>Taking Poe by the throat</i>) <abbr>I &#8217;ll</abbr> stop your
+croaking!</p>
+
+<p>(<i>Haines and Black pull Juggers from Poe, who falls
+to seat utterly exhausted</i>)</p>
+
+<p><strong>Haines.</strong> Can&#8217;t you keep your hands off a sick man?</p>
+
+<p><a class="page" name="page255" id="page255" title="255"></a><strong>Jug.</strong> Sick! <abbr>He &#8217;s</abbr> the devil!</p>
+
+<p><strong>Haines.</strong> Then you might as well make his acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p><strong>Poe.</strong> <abbr>&#8217;T is</abbr> here ... death ... and all is yet to
+say. O, I have chattered as a babe! Now, I could speak,
+and dust is in my mouth!... Helen, you told me to be
+content with the letters.... I have tried to read ...
+to steal God&#8217;s book. He has punished ... but death
+pays my bond. Soon I shall read with His eyes and be
+at peace. Peace! (<i>Gives a dying shudder</i>) Nevermore!...
+(<i>Rises, staggers to door and opens it wide</i>) O,
+Night, with thy minstrel winds, blow gently on me
+dead ... for I have been thy lover! (<i>Looks back at
+the men who are gazing at him intently, and speaks
+lowly, erect and godlike</i>) In His own image created He
+man!... (<i>Turns and steps into the darkness.</i>)</p>
+
+<p class="central">(<em class="ac">CURTAIN</em>)</p>
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
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@@ -0,0 +1,11743 @@
+Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Semiramis and Other Plays
+       Semiramis, Carlotta And The Poet
+
+Author: Olive Tilford Dargan
+
+Release Date: October 29, 2007 [EBook #23234]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia, Daniel Griffith and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Kentuckiana Digital Library)
+
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS AND OTHER PLAYS
+
+BY
+
+OLIVE TILFORD DARGAN
+
+
+
+
+  BRENTANO'S
+  NEW YORK
+  1904
+
+
+  Copyright 1904
+  By Olive Tilford Dargan
+  [Stage rights reserved]
+
+  THE LITERARY COLLECTOR PRESS
+  GREENWICH, CONNECTICUT
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+  SEMIRAMIS        5
+
+  CARLOTTA        75
+
+  THE POET       175
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. The tent of Menones
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Hall in the palace of Ninus
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. The gardens over the lake
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. The tent of Husak
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  NINUS, king of Assyria
+  HUSAK, king of Armenia
+  KHOSROVE, son of Husak
+  MENONES, governor of Nineveh
+  ARTAVAN, son of Menones
+  SUMBAT, friend of Artavan
+  VASSIN, officer of the king
+  HADDO, a guard
+  ARMIN, a guard
+  DOKAHRA, woman to Semiramis
+  SOLA, wife of Artavan
+  SEMIRAMIS, daughter of Menones
+
+  Officers, heralds, messengers, guards, soldiers, dancers, &c.
+
+
+
+
+SEMIRAMIS
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene: Within the tent of Menones, on the plain before Nineveh.
+Left, centre, entrance to tent from the plain. Curtains rear,
+forming partition with exits right and left of centre. The same
+at right, with one exit, centre. Couch rear, between exits. From
+a tent-pole near exit, right centre, hang helmet and a suit of
+chain armor.
+
+Sola parts curtains rear, left, and looks out, showing effort to
+keep awake. She steps forward.
+
+ Sol.     Hist! Armin! Haddo!
+
+          (Enter two guards, left centre)
+
+                              Still no news?
+
+ Arm.                                         None, lady.
+
+ Sol.     Oh, Artavan, what keeps thee?
+
+ Haddo.                                 He will come.
+
+ Sol.     Semiramis is sleeping. I am weary,
+          But I'll not sleep.
+
+ Arm.                         Rest, madam; we will call you.
+
+ Sol.     My lord shall find me watching, night or day!
+
+ Arm.     Two nights you have not slept.
+
+ Sol.                                     Ten thousand nights,
+          I think, good Armin.
+
+ Had.                           We will call you, madam.
+
+ Arm.     With the first hoof-beat ringing from the north!
+
+ Sol.     (At curtains, drowsily)
+          I'll be--awake.
+
+                          (Goes in)
+
+ Had.                     She'll sleep now.
+
+ Arm.                                       Ay, she must.
+
+ Had.     And I'd not call her for god Bel himself!
+
+ Arm.     Hark! (Goes to entrance)
+                'Tis a horseman!
+
+ Had.     (Following him)         Two!
+
+ Arm.                                   Right! We must rouse
+          The lady Semiramis.
+
+ Had.                         Make sure 'tis he. (They step out)
+
+ Voice without.
+          Is this Menones' tent?
+
+ Arm.     (Without)               Ay, Sir! The word!
+
+ Voice.   God Ninus!
+
+          (Semiramis enters, through curtains right centre)
+
+ Sem.                 Artavan! His voice!
+
+          (Enter Artavan, followed by Sumbat who waits near entrance)
+
+ Sem.                                     My brother!
+
+ Art.     Semiramis! (Embracing her) Three years this kiss
+          Has gathered love for thee!
+
+ Sem.                                 Has 't been so long
+          Since I left Gazim?
+
+ Art.                         Ay,--since Ninus called
+          Our father here, and Gazim lost her dove.
+
+ Sem.     (On his bosom, laughing softly)
+          The dove of Gazim,--so they called me then.
+          But now--(proudly, moving from him) the lioness of Nineveh!
+
+ Art.     A warrior's daughter!
+
+ Sem.                           And a warrior's sister!
+          O, I have prayed that you might come! The king
+          Is gracious--loves the brave--
+
+ Art.                                     Our father?
+
+ Sem.                                                 Ah!
+
+ Art.     He's well?
+
+ Sem.                 Is 't day?
+
+ Art.                             Almost.
+
+ Sem.                                     At dawn he meets
+          The Armenians on the plain.
+
+ Art.                                 Then he is well!
+
+ Sem.     He went forth well,--and brave as when he drove
+          The Ghees from Gazim with his single sword!
+          But--oh--he needs you, Artavan, he needs you!
+
+          (Comes closer speaking rapidly)
+
+          I'm with him night and day but when he battles--
+          I buckle on his arms--cheer him away--
+          And wipe the foe's blood from his mighty sword
+          When he returns! But I've a fear so strange!
+          At times he's moved quite from himself,--so far
+          That I look on him and see not our father!
+          If I dared speak I'd almost say that he
+          Who never lost a battle shrinks from war!
+
+ Art.     (Starting) No, no! Not that! You borrow eyes of fear
+          And see what is not!
+
+ Sem.                           But I've felt the drops
+          Cold on his brow, and raised his lifeless arms
+          Whose corded strength hung slack as a sick child's!
+          O, it is true! And you must stand by him!
+          Fight at his side! I thought to do it! I!
+          See here, my armor!
+
+          (Moving with him to where the armor hangs)
+
+                              When I had this made
+          And swore to wear it in the fight, 'twas then
+          He yielded--said that you might come--
+
+          (Sound of trumpets at distance. They listen)
+
+                                                  The charge!
+
+ Art.     I go to him!
+
+ Sem.     (Taking a paper from her bosom)
+
+                        Take this! He'll understand!
+          'Tis some direction later thought upon!
+
+ Art.     My wife is safe--
+
+ Sem.                       With me! Three days ago
+          She came. And now she sleeps--
+
+          (Points to curtains, rear left)
+
+ Art.                                     In there? One kiss--
+
+ Sem.     Nay, nay, you go to battle, and should keep
+          Steel in your eye, not woman's tears!... Who comes
+          With you?
+
+          (Looks toward entrance where Sumbat stands)
+
+                    O, Sumbat!
+
+          (He advances and drops on knee. She gives him both hands
+          and he rises)
+
+                                Welcome! But no time
+          For gallant greetings! We are warriors here!
+
+          (A roll of battle is heard)
+
+ Art.     We go!
+
+ Sem.             Ride! ride! The battle over, ye
+          Shall meet the king!
+
+          (Artavan and Sumbat hasten out. The noise of departure
+          brings Sola to curtains)
+
+ Sol.                           What is it? Who was here?
+
+ Sem.     (Absorbed)                        They'll reach my father!
+
+ Sol.     Not Artavan?
+
+ Sem.                   Ay--he.
+
+ Sol.                           And gone--my husband!
+          Without a word--a look!
+
+ Sem.                             The battle calls,
+          And he who wears ambition's spur must ride!
+
+ Sol.     Ambition! O, you think of naught but war
+          And glory! Hast thou no heart, Semiramis?
+
+ Sem.     I' faith, and love thee with it! (kisses her)
+
+ Sol.                                       Trifle not!
+          Hadst thou a heart thou couldst not live a maid,
+          So beautiful, and never dream of love!
+          Thou'rt some strange thing--
+
+ Sem.                                   What, wilt be angry? Come!
+          I'll tell thee all he said--thy Artavan,--
+          Ay, every word, and how his eyes grew soft
+          With dimness sweeter than their vanquished light
+          When thou wert his dear theme!
+
+          (They move to curtains. Semiramis stops and listens)
+
+                                          Go in. I'll come. (Sola goes in)
+
+ Sem.     (Listening) Is that a chariot? My father!... Nay!
+          He's safe with Artavan! Whatever comes
+          His son will be his heart and bear him up!
+          Safe, safe, Menones, and thy grizzled locks
+          Shall wear their laurels to an honored grave!
+
+          (Noise of approaching chariot)
+
+          It _is_ a chariot! Can it be the king?
+
+          (Chariot stops without)
+
+          Armin, who is it comes?
+
+ Arm.     (Appearing at entrance) The Lord Menones.
+
+          (Semiramis sways, steadies herself, and waits. Menones
+          enters, livid and trembling. In form he is large and
+          mighty, but is grey with age. He staggers over to couch
+          and sits upon it, groaning heavily. Semiramis looks at him
+          in silence. Then approaches and speaks in a low terrified
+          tone)
+
+ Sem.     You fled the battle!
+
+ Men.                           Oh!
+
+ Sem.                               You must go back!
+
+ Men.     Too late!
+
+ Sem.     (Gaining courage and putting her hands sternly on his
+          shoulders)  No!
+
+ Men.                     We must fly!
+
+ Sem.                                   Fly! Never!
+
+ Men.     (Rising)                                  Come!
+          The chariot! The king will leave my race
+          No blood on earth!
+
+ Sem.                         If it be coward's blood
+          'Tis better lost!
+
+ Men.                       Come, come! We yet can fly!
+
+ Sem.     Back to the battle! There I'll go with thee!
+
+ Men.     I can not! Oh, the terror's here--here--here!
+          It clutches at my heart!
+
+ Sem.                               Tear out thy heart
+          And keep thy honor whole!
+
+          (He falls on the couch, shaken with suffering. She kneels
+          by him pleading passionately)
+
+ Sem.                               Up, father, up!
+          You must go back! You know not what you've done!
+          Our Artavan--
+
+ Men.                   Praise Bel, he's safe in Gazim!
+
+ Sem.     No ... he is here ... he came, and rode to find you.
+
+ Men.     He came? Gods, no!
+
+ Sem.                         Nay, true! He's in the battle!
+          Now you will go! You will go back, my father!
+          He does not know the plan! He can not lead
+          Without your counsel! Come--your voice--his arm--
+          And all is safe!
+
+          (He rises; noise of battle; he sinks shuddering)
+
+ Men.                       No--I'll die here--not there!
+
+          (Semiramis stands in despair; then lifts her arms praying)
+
+ Sem.     O mighty Belus, give me back my father!
+
+          (She listens with sudden eagerness and goes to tent door)
+
+          False! false! They're verging south! North, north, ye cowards!
+
+          (Rushes to her armor and takes it down. Shakes the
+          curtains right, and calls)
+
+          Dokahra! (Throws off her robe and begins putting on armor.
+          Enter Dokahra, right centre)
+
+ Dok.     Mistress!
+
+ Sem.               Buckle here! Be quick!
+
+ Men.     You shall not go!
+
+ Sem.                       You have no might or right
+          To stay me now!
+
+ Men.                     You will be lost!
+
+ Sem.                                       Lost? No!
+          Did I not plan this battle? Haste, Dokahra!
+          Our lives are in your fingers! Courage, father!
+
+          (Going, Dokahra still adjusting armor)
+
+          The king has smiled on me--I do not know--
+          But there was such a promise in his smile--
+          And if the victory's mine he will forgive!
+
+ Dok.     This rivet, mistress!
+
+          (Noise of battle)
+
+ Sem.                           Artavan, I come!
+
+          (Rushes out. Sound of chariot rolling away. Dokahra looks
+          stolidly at Menones for a moment, then turns through
+          curtains, right. Menones presses his heart in pain, moans
+          wretchedly, and draws a blanket over his body)
+
+ Men.     Is this the form that bright Decreto loved?
+          But where the soul, O, gods! (Lies shuddering)
+
+ Voice without.                         The King!
+
+          (Menones draws blanket over his face and becomes
+          motionless. Enter the king, with Vassin)
+
+ Nin.     (At entrance)                           Stand here!
+          Godagon, haste! Ride to Menones; say
+          We wait within his tent; his messengers
+          Will reach us here.
+
+          (A rider spurs off without. Ninus and Vassin advance
+          within the tent)
+
+ Vas.                         Your majesty, suppose
+          The Armenians gain, you'll be in danger here.
+          Why come so near for news?
+
+ Nin.                                 For news, good Vassin?
+          I had a better reason. Semiramis
+          Tents with her father.
+
+          (Points to curtains)
+
+ Vas.                             Ah!
+
+ Nin.                                 The sun will break
+          Through there!
+
+ Vas.                     My lord--
+
+ Nin.                               She stirs! She comes! Wait--see!
+
+          (Dokahra's gaunt figure appears at curtains)
+
+ Vas.     A false dawn, is it not?
+
+ Nin.                               Your mistress sleeps?
+
+ Dok.     (Abasing herself)
+          No, mighty king!
+
+ Nin.                       She's up? Then give her word
+          We're here.
+
+ Dok.                 She's not within, my lord.
+
+ Nin.                                             Abroad!
+          So soon? She's on the general's business?
+
+ Dok.     And yours, O king! She's joined the battle!
+
+ Nin.                                                 She!
+
+ Vas.     Ha! ha! Do you believe this?
+
+ Nin.                                   Ay ... 'tis so.
+          I know her spirit. Here's mettle for a queen!
+
+          (Menones uncovers and half rises)
+
+ Vas.     You would not make her one, your majesty!
+          Though she should lead your troops to victory,
+          Still is she but your general's daughter, and
+          Assyria's crown is given of gods to gods!
+
+ Nin.     And Ninus knows to keep his race untainted.
+          But all the jewels of a king, my Vassin,
+          Are not worn in his crown. Some in the heart
+          Are casketed, and there this maid shall shine
+          For me alone. Were she of heavenly race--
+
+ Men.     (Starting up) She is, my lord!
+
+          (Ninus regards him in astonishment)
+
+ Nin.                                     What do you here, Menones?
+          Speak!
+
+ Men.     (Trembling) I am ill.
+
+ Nin.                           Ill, sir? Ha! Now I know!
+          Your daughter leads while you couch safe in tent!
+          She sought to hide your shame! O, what a heart!
+          But you--
+
+ Men.               I led, my lord, till illness seized--
+
+ Nin.     Too ill to fight, but not too ill to fly!
+          Hound! hound! My troops are lost! I'd kill you now
+          But 'tis an hour too soon! First you must be
+          Of every honor stript!
+
+ Men.     (Kneeling) My lord and king,
+          I know that I must die, but hear a prayer
+          For my brave daughter's sake! Betray her not,
+          Lest thou offend the gods that gave thee life,
+          For she, too, is of heaven!
+
+ Vas.                                 Ha!
+
+ Men.                                     I swear
+          'Tis true! My lord, Decreto was her mother!
+          She met me on the plains of Gazim when
+          This aged figure was called fair, and youth
+          Still fed its fire to manhood's prime;
+          Our babe she left upon a mountain crest
+          And sent her doves to tend it through a year,
+          Then bade me scale the mount and take my own.
+          I did, and named her for Decreto's dove--
+          Semiramis!
+
+ Nin.                 What precious tale is this?
+
+ Vas.     He thinks to fright you from the maid, my lord.
+
+ Dok.     (Falling at the king's feet)
+          O king, 'tis true! Ask thou in Gazim--
+
+ Nin.                                             Go!
+
+          (Dokahra vanishes through curtains left rear)
+
+ Nin.     'T will take a better lie to save your head!
+
+ Men.     My head? Thou'rt welcome to it! 'Tis not that!
+          But she--my daughter--
+
+ Nin.                             We will spare her life.
+
+ Men.     (Calmly) It is my prayer that she may die with me.
+
+ Nin.     Not while we love. If e'er she lose her charm,
+          We may remember that you were her father.
+
+ Men.     (Furiously, forgetting himself)
+          She has a brother yet!
+
+ Nin.                             A brother! So!
+          We'll look to him as well! Thanks for your news!
+
+ Men.     (Towering up) Though every god in heaven gave thee blood
+          Yet would I spill it!
+
+          (Lifts his sword; suddenly drops it and falls, pressing
+          his heart. Ninus and Vassin watch him silently until he
+          is still)
+
+ Nin.                           Dead?
+
+ Vas.     (Stooping)                  Ay, dead, my lord.
+
+ Nin.     I would have spared him though I threatened death.
+
+ Vas.     Have spared the coward? Why, your majesty?
+
+ Nin.     Semiramis has spirit passing woman's;
+          I have no hope to force her to my arms,
+          And I'd have wrought her heart to tenderness
+          By mercy to her father. Love is my aim!
+          All else I can command--but that--Guards here!
+
+          (Enter Armin and Haddo)
+
+          Not you--my own! But wait--a word! Where sleeps
+          Menones?
+
+ Arm.     (Pointing) There, O king!
+
+          (The body of Menones lies behind the king and Vassin,
+          unseen by the guards. Exeunt Armin and Haddo. Enter the
+          king's guards)
+
+ Nin.                               Take up this body.
+          Place it within.
+
+          (Guards go in with Menones' body)
+
+ Vas.                       What would you do, my lord?
+
+ Nin.     You'll know in time.
+
+          (Re-enter guards)     Hark! You saw nothing!
+
+ Guards.  (Bowing to floor)                             Nothing.
+          O mighty Ninus! (Exeunt)
+
+ Nin.                     I will have her love!
+          Vassin, this story of her goddess birth
+          Is true!
+
+ Vas.     How knows your majesty?
+
+ Nin.                             It speaks
+          In all her motions. Every glance and grace
+          Revouches it. E'en your dull eye must know
+          Her beauty is immortal, though her life
+          Is forfeit to the clay and must have end.
+
+ Vas.     Thou'lt find another fair! Youth blooms and goes!
+
+ Nin.     Not such as hers! Her brow's a holy page
+          Where chiselling Time dare never set a mark!
+          The sun hath been her lover, and so deep
+          Hath touched her locks with fire no winter hand
+          May shake his kisses out!
+
+ Vas.                               Why, thou'rt in love!
+
+          (Confused voices without. A messenger runs in and falls
+          at the feet of the king)
+
+ Nin.     Speak, sir!
+
+ Mes.                 Assyria wins! The Armenians fly!
+          They've lost their leader--
+
+ Nin.                                 Khosrove! Is he taken?
+
+ Mes.     Taken or slain, I know not which, but know
+          He leads no more the enemy! They fly
+          Before Semiramis!
+
+ Nin.                       Semiramis!
+
+ Mes.     Ay, all was rout until she reached the field
+          And spurred the--
+
+ Voice of herald without.   Victory! A victory!
+          Ninus is god and king!
+
+ Cries.                           A victory!
+
+          (Enter herald)
+
+ Herald.  Assyria triumphs o'er his enemies!
+
+ Nin.     Is Khosrove taken?
+
+ Her.                         Slain, the people cry!
+          The soldiers hail Semiramis their chief,
+          Call her a goddess, drag her chariot,
+          And shout and swear by Belus' ruling star
+          To be her slaves forever!
+
+ Nin.                               So they shall.
+
+ Vas.     Your majesty--
+
+ Nin.                     Peace, Vassin! Wait and see!
+
+          (Noise and cries without as Semiramis is drawn toward
+          the tent in her chariot)
+
+ Nin.     Ho! Guards!
+
+          (The king's guards enter. Ninus passes to right centre,
+          facing entrance opposite. Guards station themselves on
+          each side of him and in his rear. Semiramis enters,
+          followed by officers and soldiers. Her helmet is off,
+          her hair falling)
+
+ Nin.                 Hail goddess!
+
+          (Semiramis looks at the king in astonishment then glances
+          fearfully toward Menones' room)
+
+ Nin.                               Hail, Assyria's queen!
+
+ Sem.     (Faintly) O king--
+
+          (Ninus advances to her. She kneels before him)
+
+ Nin.                         Kneel down, Menones' daughter! Rise,
+          The bride of Ninus, nevermore to kneel!
+
+                                                  (Raises her)
+
+          This victory is proof, if proof I need,
+          That you are a true daughter of the skies,
+          Mate for the mightiest throne!
+
+                            (To soldiers) Cry festival!
+          The feast of triumph and the wedding revel
+          We'll hold together! Go!
+
+          (Exeunt soldiers, cheering without)
+
+ Nin.     (Taking the hand of Semiramis)
+
+                                    To-day thou'lt come?
+
+ Sem.     (Withdrawing her hand and bowing her head)
+          I am my king's.
+
+ Nin.     (Passing to exit) The royal chariot,
+          Within the hour, will take you from the tent
+          Unto our palace.
+
+          (Exeunt Ninus and attendants. Semiramis stands dazed.
+          Sola comes out softly and looks at her)
+
+ Sem.     (In rapture)      Ah, my father's safe!
+          I'll tell him!
+
+          (Hurries toward curtains right, rear, and stops at exit)
+
+                          No ... I'll wait. This joy is dead
+          If Artavan be lost!
+
+          (Sola springs toward her with a cry)
+
+ Sol.                         Be lost? Ah, no!
+          Where is he? Oh, not lost!
+
+ Sem.                                 He pushed too far
+          Amid the flying troops.
+
+ Sol.                             And you--you stole
+          His last look from my eyes!
+
+ Sem.                                 He may be saved.
+          For Sumbat followed him. He must be saved!
+          We'll hope till Sumbat comes.
+
+ Sol.                                   O, you know naught
+          Of love!
+
+ Sem.               I was his sister, Sola, ere
+          He made thee wife.
+
+ Sol.                         A sister! O, such love
+          Is nothing! Thou wilt smile at it
+          If ever thou'rt a wife!
+
+          (Semiramis is removing her armor. She stops and looks
+          questioningly at Sola; then shakes her head)
+
+ Sem.                             Nay, Sola, nay!...
+          Help me with this.... Somehow my heart is gone
+          And armor's for the brave.
+
+          (Putting on her robe)       Now 't has come back.
+          But beats and whispers like a maiden's own.
+          I am but half a warrior.... Do not sob.
+          Sumbat will bring us news.... Ah, he has come!
+
+          (Enter Sumbat)
+
+ Sol.     (Rushing to him and looking into his face)
+          Oh, lost! (Flies, sobbing, through the curtains, rear left)
+
+ Sem.     Speak.... Is it true?
+
+ Sum.                           I fear it is.
+          I could not save him, and they bore him off.
+
+ Sem.     Alive?
+
+ Sum.             Alive!
+
+ Sem.                     A prisoner! Not slain!
+          Then we may hope! I've captured Husak's son!
+
+ Sum.     Khosrove! Is he not under guard without?
+          A man most fair ... of lordly form, and young?
+
+ Sem.     'Tis he! Have him brought hither instantly!
+          To Husak word shall go on swiftest steed
+          That I will yield the prince for Artavan!
+
+          (Exit Sumbat)
+
+          He's safe ... if there be time ... if there be time!...
+          Husak, the Fierce ... but he must love his son,
+          And will be merciful to save him. Ay....
+          So brave a son. Now I recall his face,
+          It would have made me pause had not my eyes
+          Been dim with triumph.
+
+          (Enter Sumbat, followed by officers with Khosrove. The
+          officers fall back, leaving the captive before Semiramis.
+          He is stripped of all armor, and clothed in a scant tunic
+          revealing a figure of marked strength and grace. He stands
+          erect, but with head bowed, and his arms bound to his
+          sides)
+
+ Sem.     (Gazes at him)          Ah!... (She advances a step)
+
+                                          Armenian!
+
+          (At sound of her voice he lifts his head and looks at her
+          with eager recognition)
+
+ Sem.     (Stepping back) Armenian!
+
+ Khos.    (Proudly)                 Armenia, by your leave!
+          I am my father's house.
+
+ Sem.                             I'm glad 'tis so.
+          Then he should value thee.
+
+ Khos.                                He does.
+
+ Sem.                                           So much
+          That he will spare the life of Artavan
+          If we spare yours?
+
+ Khos.                        Who is this Artavan
+          Who evens me in price?
+
+ Sem.                             Menones' son.
+
+ Khos.    Menones? Governor of Nineveh?
+          Who fled my sword, fear-cold, and pale with terror?
+          Insult not Husak with so poor a suit!
+          That coward's race--
+
+ Sem.                           Am I a coward, sir?
+
+ Khos.    (In sudden dejection)
+          These fettered arms make answer, princess.
+
+ Sem.                                                 Nay,
+          I am Menones' daughter,--Artavan
+          My brother!
+
+ Khos.                Not the Assyrian princess? O,
+          Forgive me, lady! I am proud to be
+          Thy brother's price!
+
+ Sem.                           What surety have I
+          That Artavan still lives?
+
+ Khos.                              My word.
+
+ Officer.                                     His word!
+          O, noble madam, it is known to all
+          That Husak takes no prisoners of war.
+          They die before his tent.
+
+ Khos.                              Such is the custom--
+
+ Sem.     O me, my brother!
+
+ Khos.                      But I can avouch
+          That Artavan still lives.
+
+ Off.                               Trust not the word
+          Of captive foes, my lady. By what means
+          Can he know this?
+
+ Sem.                       Speak, sir.
+
+ Khos.                                  To you alone
+          I'll speak.
+
+ Sem.                 Nay--before all!
+
+ Khos.                                  Unto no ear
+          But thine.
+
+ Sem.                 Wouldst save thy life?
+
+ Khos.                                        Perhaps. Wouldst save
+          Thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                   Sumbat, wilt advise me?
+
+ Sum.                                           Trust him,
+          And hear what he would say.
+
+ Sem.                                 Out then, my friends,
+          I pray you.
+
+          (All go out but Semiramis and Khosrove.)
+
+                      Now!
+
+ Khos.                      My father swore to me
+          Before I led his troops 'gainst Nineveh,
+          All captives should be held at my disposal
+          And bloody custom waived. I would not speak
+          'Fore all, lest I should rob fierce Husak's name
+          Of terror which is half his sword.
+
+ Sem.                                         But now
+          He thinks you dead.
+
+ Khos.                        Not so. I've sent him word
+          By a sure mouth that I'm unhurt and held
+          A prisoner.
+
+ Sem.                 O then my brother's safe!
+          How gracious art thou, Heaven!
+
+          (Steps towards entrance)        Sumbat!
+
+ Khos.    (Stepping before her)                   Wait!
+
+ Sem.     What more?
+
+ Khos.                All--everything--there's nothing said!
+          Ninus will spare me not! 'Tis thou must save me!
+
+ Sem.     I! No! The king!
+
+ Khos.                      Not he! Is Artavan
+          Grown dearer than his hate to Husak? Nay--
+
+ Sem.     Sir, fear not Ninus. He will grant my suit.
+
+ Khos.    He will? You--you--
+
+ Sem.                         I've saved his army!
+
+ Khos.    (Relieved)                                Ah!
+          No more than that?
+
+ Sem.                         Enough!
+
+ Khos.                                No! 'T will not wipe
+          Revenge from out his heart,--and you have saved
+          But that your father threw away.
+
+ Sem.                                       Peace, sir!
+
+ Khos.    There's but one way for me--escape!
+
+ Sem.                                         No more!
+          Nay--not another word!
+
+ Khos.                            I must escape--
+
+ Sem.                                             Not one!
+
+ Khos.    That word unsaid slays Artavan,
+          Spoken it saves him! Once in Ninus' power
+          I have no hope of life, and with me dies
+          Your brother.
+
+ Sem.     (Scornfully)  Do not fear!
+
+ Khos.                                I fear? By Heaven!
+          Think you this heart is not a soldier's own
+          Because 'tis captive to a woman's sword?
+          A woman's sword! O little had thy sword
+          To do with my defeat! Unarmed thou wouldst
+          Have taken me--for 'twas thy beauty struck
+          My weapon to my side! (rapidly and passionately)
+                                When I bore down
+          Upon your chariot, I could have swept you
+          With one arm from the world! But suddenly
+          A missile struck your helmet and dislodged
+          The glory of your face before my eyes,
+          Your hair ran gold, the shining East looked black
+          Behind the star you made upon its breast!
+          I knew thee for a goddess, and stood still
+          Meek captive to thy wish! O blest am I
+          To learn thou art not greater than myself,
+          But so much less that I may lift thee up!
+          Fly with me--be my queen--
+
+          (Semiramis tries to speak)
+
+                                      Go, call them in!
+          I'll shout above their heads to reach thine ears!
+          O, trust to me! In me thy brother lives!
+          Come, and thy fallen father shall be brave
+          Beneath Armenia's smile! Here thou mayst save
+          His life, but ne'er again will he know honor!
+          Help me to fly and save three lives in one!
+          Give me to Ninus--give me up to death,
+          And with a father and a brother lost,
+          Though thou wert worshipped 'mong thy country's gods
+          Still thou couldst not be happy!
+
+ Sem.                                       Sir--
+
+ Khos.                                            But come,
+          And they are safe!
+
+ Sem.     (Bewildered)        What do I hear?
+
+ Khos.                                        O, come!
+          Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?
+          It is the fire that dead puts out the light
+          On every hearth, living makes all the world
+          One altar feeding incense unto Heaven!
+          It gives the soul to life, breath to the soul,
+          Pulse to ambition, strength to warrior arms,--
+
+          (Struggling with his fetters)
+
+          Such strength that they may break all captive bonds
+          To clasp their own!
+
+          (Breaks his fetters and attempts to embrace her as she
+          retreats gazing at him as if fascinated. She escapes him,
+          and throws off her bewilderment. He drops to his knees
+          holding out his arms to her)
+
+                              And love I offer thee!
+
+ Sem.     Sir, I forgive thee, for thou knowest not
+          To whom you speak!
+
+ Khos.                        Know not!
+
+ Sem.                                   I who am now
+          Menones' daughter, ere the night shall be
+          The bride of Ninus, king of all Assyria!
+
+          (Khosrove rises, bows before her, and stands with silent
+          dignity)
+
+ Sem.     You--you--were saying--
+
+ Khos.                            Nothing, royal madam.
+          Have you not friends without?
+
+          (Semiramis hesitates, goes to door and calls)
+
+ Sem.     Sumbat! (To Khosrove)         Thou'rt safe!
+
+ Khos.    (Ironically)
+          Assyria's queen should know!
+
+ Sem.                                   She does!
+
+          (Re-enter Sumbat and officers)
+
+ Sum.                                             Unbound!
+
+ Sem.     Ay, he is free! We only wait the word
+          Of gracious Ninus. Guard him until then,
+          We charge you, Sumbat. Keep you nearest him.
+
+          (Exeunt Sumbat and officers with Khosrove)
+
+ Sem.     My father now! He must have heard the shouts
+          Of victory, yet still he hides himself.
+          ... The king asked not for love. He is Assyria.
+          I would not lessen him by love. Not yet....
+          'Tis my triumphant arms he weds. The heart
+          Must sleep....
+
+ Voice of guard at entrance.
+                          The king approaches!
+
+ Sem.                                           Ah!... The king!
+          His word, and all is done. I'll speak to him
+          Before I see my father. Then I may say
+          'Thou art forgiven, and Artavan is safe!'
+          ... And Khosrove ... safe.... The royal chariot!...
+          O, mother, send thy doves--I am once more
+          A babe!
+
+          (The king enters alone)
+
+ Nin.             Art ready for thy king?
+
+ Sem.                                     I am--
+          And yet--a word before I go! Thou know'st
+          That Khosrove is my prisoner--
+
+ Nin.                                     Khosrove! He!
+          We thought him slain!
+
+ Sem.                           Nay, sir--
+
+ Nin.                                       A prisoner!
+          O, welcome gift! We ask no other dower!
+
+ Sem.     But, gracious lord--
+
+ Nin.     (Turning to entrance) Ho, Vassin! Khosrove's taken!
+          Go! Find him out and drag him straight to dungeon!
+          Bind him with chains until he can not move,
+          Till we've devised some bitter way of death!
+
+ Vas.     (Without) I haste, my lord!
+
+ Nin.               At last my enemy is 'neath my feet!
+
+          (Returning to Semiramis)
+
+          And 'tis to thee we owe this gift of fortune!
+          ... You're pale, Semiramis.
+
+ Sem.                                 O king--
+
+ Nin.     (Taking her hands)                    And trembling.
+          Dost fear my greatness? Nay, thou ledst my army--
+
+ Sem.     O, if for that thou ow'st me aught, grant me--
+
+ Nin.     Whate'er thou wouldst!
+
+ Sem.                             My brother, Artavan,
+          Is Husak's captive! Thou canst save him!
+
+ Nin.                                               I?
+          Then he is saved! But how! Tell me the way!
+
+ Sem.     Husak will yield him up for Khosrove!
+
+ Nin.                                           What
+          Send Khosrove back alive! Not though the gods
+          Commanded it! Alive! 'Twas Husak slew
+          My father, and his son shall die! Ten years
+          I've sought for this revenge! And give it up
+          For a green lad fresh from the fields of Gazim?
+
+ Sem.     A warrior, sir, who'll win thee many a battle!
+          And crest thy glory with meridian stars!
+          He's worth the price though pity lent no coin!
+          Save him, my lord! A bridal boon I ask!
+          Give me my brother!
+
+ Nin.                         A bridal boon I'll grant.
+          Thou lov'st thy father?
+
+ Sem.     (Choking)               You know--that he--
+
+ Nin.                                                 I know.
+
+ Sem.     Great king--
+
+ Nin.                   One thou mayst save.
+
+ Sem.                                         O gods!
+
+ Nin.     Thy brother, or thy father? Thou mayst choose.
+
+ Sem.     I know my duty, sir. I choose my father.
+
+ Nin.     A noble choice. We are not harsh, my queen.
+          The people know Menones' life is forfeit,
+          And know how I have sought for Khosrove's death;
+          Did I spare both for your sake they would say
+          That Ninus' scepter is a woman's hand.
+
+          (Shouts of rejoicing without)
+
+          But come! The chariot waits. The people call.
+
+ Sem.     First will I tell my father that he lives.
+          He's waiting there the summons to his death.
+          Ah, I must thank you sir.
+
+          (Takes the king's hand and kisses it. Goes through
+          curtains, right, rear. Her cry is heard within. She
+          returns.)
+
+                                    Too late! He's dead!
+          Cold, cold, my father! Oh!
+
+          (Sobs, her hands covering her face)
+
+ Nin.     (Removing her hands and putting his arm about her)
+
+                                      Thou'rt not alone,
+          My bride!
+
+ Sem.     (Withdrawing and kneeling to him, her hands upraised)
+                    O king, leave me my brother!
+
+ Nin.                                             Nay!
+          Did you not have your choice? You ask too much.
+
+ Sem.     (Rising) Ah, so I do! I should demand, not ask!
+
+ Nin.     Demand!
+
+ Sem.             Ay, king! ... 'Tis true I'm not alone.
+          My goddess mother is again with me
+          As when this morn my heart exultant rode
+          The tides of triumph! When the heavens rolled
+          And like a stooping sea caught up my soul
+          Till ranged with the applauding gods it clapped
+          My courage on below! You offer me
+          A place beside your throne. I offer you
+          The hearts of all your subjects now my own,--
+          The love--the worship of your mighty army!
+
+          (Cries without)
+
+          They shout my name--not yours--great Ninus! Hear!
+
+ Shouts:  Semiramis is queen! Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     I bring a hand, with yours inlocked, shall reach
+          O'er Asia's breadth and draw her glory in!
+          A heart ambitious with immortal beat
+          To make Assyria greatest 'neath the stars!
+          And in return I ask my brother's life!
+          Give me your promise Khosrove goes to Husak,
+          Or leave me where I stand--Menones' daughter!
+
+ Nin.     (Slowly, reading the determination in her face)
+          I promise.
+
+ Sem.                 Swear!
+
+ Nin.                         I swear it!
+
+ Sem.     (Relaxes, falls at his feet, and reaches up, clasping his hands)
+                                          O, god Ninus!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+The great hall in the palace of Nineveh. The rear is open, showing
+the sky and the towers of the city. Along the floor, which is high
+above the ground court, rear, are sculptured lions. On each side
+of hall where right and left reach open rear are large entrances,
+with steps leading up to hall, guarded by spearmen and archers.
+Within the hall, between winged bulls, are entrances to chambers,
+right centre and left centre. Near front, right, smaller entrance
+between figures of men with lion heads. The same opposite, left.
+The walls of the hall are lined with alabaster slabs on which are
+sculptured and colored the conquests of Assyrian kings.
+
+Ninus alone. Enter Vassin, left centre.
+
+ Nin.     (As Vassin enters)
+          You've told her?
+
+ Vas.                       Ay, my lord.
+
+ Nin.                                     What does she say?
+          Does she suspect we ordered Khosrove's torture?
+
+ Vas.     I can not answer that.
+
+ Nin.                             Then answer this!
+          You're sure that he will die? You made good work?
+
+ Vas.     Good work, my lord. He can not live a day.
+
+ Nin.     A day! You've hurried then! I bade you fill
+          His wounds with mortal but a lingering bane!
+          Go, have him brought within! He must not die
+          Without my foot upon his neck!
+
+          (As Vassin is going)            What said
+          The queen?
+
+ Vas.     She cried 'My brother's lost!'
+
+ Nin.                                     No more?
+
+ Vas.     O, then her soul put sorrow's grandeur on,
+          And those about her saw a noble storm;
+          But yet so proud her royal eyes, each drop
+          That fell from them were worth a world
+          To him for whom they fell!
+
+ Nin.     (Aside)                     He loves the queen!
+
+          (Enter Semiramis, left, centre)
+
+ Sem.     Is this thing true my lord? O, surely Heaven
+          Will cry out 'No' though thou must answer 'Ay!'
+
+ Nin.     (To Vassin) Go! (Exit Vassin, right front)
+
+ Sem.                     Is it true?
+
+ Nin.                                 Too true, my queen!
+          Khosrove is maimed beyond all hope of life,
+          And thou must make thy husband heir to love
+          That was thy brother's.
+
+ Sem.                             Oh!
+
+ Nin.                                 Thy grief is mine.
+
+ Sem.     I will not weep, though I could shed such streams
+          As when the clouds from riven breast pour down
+          Their torrent agonies!... How strange, my lord,
+          The guards should venture so without your warrant!
+
+ Nin.     I've had their heads for it!
+
+ Sem.     (Shocked)                     Their heads!... Why, this
+          'Tis to be royal! Ah!
+
+ Nin.                           Put by these thoughts,
+          Semiramis. No theme to-day but love!
+
+ Sem.     Love, sir?
+
+ Nin.                 Ay, that! Thou lov'st me, dost thou not?
+
+ Sem.     Thou art great Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                           I'd be loved as man!
+          Forget my kingdom, and put arms about me
+          As doth the peasant maid her beggar lord!
+
+ Sem.     (Moving from him)
+          I thought thy greatness married my ambition
+          To make Assyria brave e'en to the gods!
+          I'll keep my promise ... howsoever thine
+          Is broken. Crowned, my glorious purpose beats
+          Higher than any dream my maiden heart
+          Could nourish! I will keep my word. But love?
+          If thou wouldst have it--win it!
+
+          (Starts away, then turns back to him)
+
+                                            Hast yet found
+          A governor for the city?
+
+ Nin.                               No.
+
+ Sem.                                   Delay
+          At this unsettled time? Dost think it safe?
+
+ Nin.     I've ordered every tower-watch redoubled,
+          Each gate close-locked, and keep the keys myself!
+          None goes or comes till I have found the man
+          For governor.
+
+ Sem.                   Would not Vassin serve?
+
+ Nin.     (With suspicion)
+          I've other use for him. Perchance he'll go
+          From Nineveh.
+
+ Sem.                   My lord, there's one from Gazim,
+          Sumbat, thou'lt find as true as thine own heart.
+          Who with some aid from me--
+
+ Nin.                                 From you? So, so!
+
+ Sem.     (In surprise)
+          I was my father's head and hand, my lord.
+          Who knows the guardian locks and wards and plans
+          Secretive for thy safety but myself?
+          Whom thou dost choose must learn somewhat of me.
+
+ Nin.     Ay, you'll nob heads together!
+
+ Sem.                                     Sir?
+
+ Nin.                                           Well, well--
+          I'll choose a man!
+
+          (Exit moodily, right centre)
+
+ Sem.                         Strange ... but he is the king!
+          ... Ah, Khosrove! Artavan!... Nay, I will think
+          Of nothing but my duty to the crown!...
+          ... "And with a father and a brother lost--"
+
+          (Enter Sola, left, front. She sees that Semiramis is alone
+          and advances)
+
+ Sem.     "Though thou wert worshipped, thou couldst not be happy!"
+
+ Sol.     Tell me! When does he come?
+
+ Sem.                                 Who, child?
+
+ Sol.                                             You ask?
+          My husband--Artavan!
+
+ Sem.                           He will not come.
+
+ Sol.     Art thou not queen?
+
+ Sem.                         And Ninus king.
+
+ Sol.     He will not save thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                                   Nay, he can not.
+
+ Sol.     O monster king!
+
+ Sem.                     Hush, Sola ... he forgave
+          My father.
+
+ Sol.                 Oh!--because he knew him dead!
+
+ Sem.     He knew him dead!
+
+ Sol.                       Ah, I will tell you now!
+
+          (Looks about guardedly, and speaks in a low tone)
+
+          I saw your father die--and Ninus saw him!
+          Dokahra waked me--and unseen we watched!
+          The king came to the tent--discovered all--
+          Doomed him to death--you to dishonor! Then
+          Your father rose to strike him--and fell dead.
+          The king--
+
+ Sem.                 Go! Leave me, Sola! Leave me! Go!
+
+          (Exit Sola, left, near front)
+
+ Sem.     (Stands in silent horror, then speaks slowly)
+          ... I'll keep my oath ... and crown. Still will I make
+          Assyria great. Assyria is the army,
+          And I ... am queen of arms ... not love! Not love!
+
+          (Re-enter Ninus)
+
+ Sem.     (Softly, not seeing Ninus)
+          "Dost know what love is, daughter of Menones?"
+
+ Nin.     (Advancing) My bride!
+
+ Sem.     (Turning to him)      My lord, I would see Sumbat. Pray
+          Let him be summoned.
+
+ Nin.                           Nay, we've sworn this day
+          Shall be for us alone!
+
+ Sem.                             'Twas he I charged
+          With care of the Armenian prince.
+
+ Nin.                                       My queen
+          Shall not be troubled.
+
+ Sem.                             'T will not trouble me,
+          My lord.
+
+ Nin.               Enough it troubles me!
+
+ Sem.                                       He'd know
+          Of this foul fault, against your will--
+
+ Nin.                                             Again
+          That theme! Forget it!
+
+ Sem.                             O, my lord, forget
+          That noble prince? So brave--so proud--so fair--
+
+ Nin.     What do you say? O, you changed eyes with him!
+
+ Sem.     My lord!
+
+ Nin.               This is your grief! Your brother! Ha!
+
+ Sem.     Your majesty--
+
+ Nin.                     Not majesty! Fool! Fool!
+          Ho, there! Bring in the Armenian! You shall see
+          This noble prince! So brave--so proud--so fair!
+          Her brother! O, fool, fool, fool!
+
+ Sem.                                       This the king?
+
+ Nin.     Why, I'm a fool, my lady!
+
+          (Guards enter right front with a half lifeless body)
+
+                                    Look on him!
+          He's had some kisses since you saw him last
+          That struck full deep!
+
+ Sem.     (Staggering back)       Is that--
+
+ Nin.                                       Ay, it is he!
+          Look on him! 'Tis your Khosrove! Your--
+
+ Sem.     (Majestically)                          Peace Ninus!
+          When you have knelt to me I'll hear you speak!
+
+          (Exit left centre)
+
+ Nin.     (Stares after her and becomes calm)
+          Now I have ruined all. She'll not forgive!
+
+          (Enter Vassin, left, rear)
+
+ Vas.     My lord, the brother of the queen has come.
+
+ Nin.     Not Artavan?
+
+ Vas.                   Ay, Artavan.
+
+ Nin.                                 He's here?
+
+ Vas.     When Husak had your oath you'd free his son,
+          Prince Khosrove, Artavan was sent at once
+          To Nineveh.
+
+ Nin.                 How could he pass
+          The gates?
+
+ Vas.                 He passed before your order fell.
+
+ Nin.     We'll welcome him.
+
+          (Looks toward the queen's room)
+
+                              I'll make my peace with this.
+
+          (Goes out with Vassin, left, rear. Semiramis enters
+          hesitatingly, sees that Ninus is gone and advances
+          fearfully toward the figure on the floor. The guards
+          stand back, right front. She retreats, covering her
+          eyes; then approaches and bends over the body. Searches
+          his face, and throws up her hands in sudden joy)
+
+ Sem.     Not Khosrove! O, it is not Khosrove!
+
+          (Leaves him and hurries to exit, trying to suppress her
+          emotion. Returns to the body)
+
+          Where is the prince? Poor wretch! Can you not speak?
+          ... Are these thy ways, ambition?
+
+ Voice without.                             Way! Make way!
+
+          (Semiramis hurries to her room. Enter the king, left rear,
+          walking with Khosrove, and followed by Vassin and Sumbat)
+
+ Nin.     Speak not of going, Artavan!
+
+ Khos.                                  I must,
+          O king! I pray your leave to go at once
+          To Gazim. Sudden troubles urge me there.
+          I beg your kingly warrant I may pass
+          The gates--
+
+ Nin.     Nay, you shall stay! We shall persuade you!
+
+          (To attendant)
+          Summon the queen. Her voice we'll add to ours.
+
+ Khos.    My lord--
+
+ Nin.               We like you, Artavan! By Bel,
+          We do! You're worthy of your sister queen!
+          No more--you'll stay! ... See! This is Khosrove!
+
+          (Bends over body on the floor)                    Is--
+
+          Or was? ... He lives.... Think you these bones will hold
+          Until they reach old Husak? Now you've come,
+          We must keep faith! Ha! ha!
+
+ Khos.                                And that--is Khosrove?
+
+ Nin.     Truth, 'tis! ... Bear out the dog!
+
+          (Guards bear off body, right front. Enter Semiramis.
+          Sumbat crosses to her)
+
+ Sem.     My brother? Where?
+
+ Khos.                        Here! (Advancing to her)
+
+ Sum.     (To Semiramis)            Be not amazed
+          And Artavan is safe!
+
+ Nin.                           This welcome's cold
+          Methinks. We gave him warmer greeting.
+
+ Sem.                                             Sir,
+          Such sudden joy--My brother knows there's none
+          I hold more dear.
+
+ Nin.                       How now? Not one?
+
+ Sem.     (Dropping her eyes from Khosrove)   Yes--one--
+          Perhaps.
+
+ Nin.     (Pleased, taking her hand)
+                    We are forgiven?
+
+ Sem.                                 Indeed, my lord.
+
+ Nin.     And for your brother, hear our royal word.
+          We make him governor of Nineveh!
+
+ Sem.     (In alarm)
+          No! no!
+
+ Nin.             'Tis done! Go, Vassin, bring the keys!
+
+          (Exit Vassin, right front)
+
+          And wear this ring, my general!
+
+ Khos.                                    My lord,
+          I could not undertake--
+
+ Nin.                             You shall!--The queen
+          Will charge you with all duties.
+
+ Sem.                                       No! I will not!
+
+ Nin.     Ay, ay! We know we please you 'gainst your word
+          And not your will.
+
+ Sem.                         He is too young, my lord!
+
+ Nin.     Menones was too old. And 'twas yourself
+          Who taught us how to prize your brother.
+
+          (Re-enter Vassin with a chain of great keys, which the
+          king takes)
+
+                                                    Come!
+
+          (Throws chains about Khosrove's neck, and singles out
+          the keys)
+
+          The citadel! The southern arsenal!
+          The northern wall--the secret passages--
+          And these the tunnel locks and river gates!
+          You'll take command at once, and so relieve
+          The city which we've shut fast as a tomb,
+          Fearing that spies from Husak's camp might creep
+          Into our bosom.
+
+ Khos.                    Wisely done, my lord.
+
+ Sem.     O king, if 't must be so, I'll map for him
+          My fathers safe division of the city.
+
+ Nin.     To you we leave him.
+
+          (Talks apart with Vassin and Sumbat)
+
+ Sem.                           Sir, what do you mean?
+
+ Khos.    (Hurriedly) When Vassin came to take me into charge,
+          Sumbat contrived another should be sent--
+
+ Sem.     We know the rest! But how save Artavan?
+
+ Khos.    When I have entered Husak's camp he's free!
+          You trust me?
+
+ Sem.                   O, I must! I do! But not
+          To save my brother may I trust to you
+          The city's keys! You are Assyria's foe--
+
+ Khos.    Not now! No more a foe, but truest friend!
+          For in my heart you are Assyria,
+          And you I'd serve--
+
+ Nin.                         Cut short thy schooling, for
+          The city waits.
+
+ Sem.     (Aloud, mapping in her hand) The river here divides
+          The eastern guard--(lowers her voice) I must not do this! No!
+          Risk every soul in Nineveh--
+
+ Khos.                                  Did I
+          Not trust thee when I entered here? I knew
+          The face that shone upon me in the battle
+          Would not betray me! Who gives perfect trust
+          Is worthy of it! Thou dost know me true
+          By Heaven's sign that only souls may read!
+          I can not say what I would say because
+          Thou art a wife, but wert thou not a wife,
+          Though thou wert thousand times a queen, I'd pour
+          Such worship to your ears you would believe
+          My heart would rend my body's walls and leap
+          Out of my bosom sooner than beat once
+          A traitor to your trust! Take Ninus' ring!
+          Give me this little one--(slipping a ring from her finger)
+                                    that hath enclosed
+          The sovereign rose and ruby of thy veins
+          That dims his purple power--and thee I serve--
+          Your general--not his! Whate'er you would
+          I will! Command me now--
+
+ Sem.                               Enough! Go, go!
+          Lose no more time!
+
+ Khos.                        O, in some dream to come,
+          When innocence may wear what form it will
+          And on thy waking nature leave no blush,
+          May words I must not speak take life and pay
+          The debt they owe this hour!
+
+ Sem.                                   I beg you go!
+          Assyria's in your hands!
+
+ Khos.                              Nay, in my heart!
+
+ Nin.     Come, Artavan! No more delay! Your troops
+          Await before the citadel.
+
+ Khos.                              I go,
+          My lord.
+
+          (Confusion without, left rear. Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.               Pardon, your majesty! A man
+          Who says he's brother to the queen, makes bold
+          To press before you!
+
+ Nin.                           Yet another brother?
+
+ Sem.     No, no, my lord!
+
+ Off.                       He comes from Husak's camp.
+
+ Sem.     It is some madman surely, or a spy
+          Who plays his wits are lost and takes this way
+          To force into the court!
+
+ Khos.                              I'll thrust him out!
+          He may mean danger to your person.
+
+ Nin.                                         Nay,
+          We'll sport with him. Let him come in!
+
+          (Exit Officer)
+
+ Sem.                                             My lord--
+
+ Nin.     Your brother! Ho, ho, ho!
+
+          (Enter Artavan)
+
+ Art.                               My sister!
+
+ Sem.     (Staring)                             Sir?
+
+ Art.     Though queen, art thou not still my sister?
+
+ Sem.                                                 No!
+
+ Art.     (Bowing with scornful ceremony)
+          Your majesty!
+
+ Nin.                   Ha! ha! His sister! Then
+          Thou wouldst be brother to the king?
+
+ Art.     (Bitterly)                            My hope
+          Runs not so high, and even to her I now
+          Give up all claim. I'll own no blood but that
+          In my own veins keeps honor! So farewell!
+
+ Nin.     Be not so fast! Whence comest thou, my man?
+
+ Art.     From Husak's camp. When he received thy word
+          His son should go to him, he set me free.
+
+ Sem.     Oh, set you free!
+
+ Art.                       And now, O king--
+
+ Sem.     (Seeing that the king is impressed) My lord,
+          If he came from the camp how has he passed
+          The city gates?
+
+ Nin.                     Ah ... true ... he could not pass.
+
+ Sem.     (Mockingly) Perhaps he scaled the hundred feet of wall,
+          And crossed the rampart 'neath the arrow watch
+          Of towers eighty-score!
+
+ Art.                             I found a way,
+          Proud woman!
+
+ Nin.                   How?
+
+          (As Artavan speaks Sola enters left front, and is held
+          aside by Sumbat)
+
+ Art.                         This morning ere the battle
+          She who was then my sister gave me this.
+
+          (Shows paper)
+
+          'Twas some direction sent unto my father,
+          The lord Menones. (Turning paper) On this side I found
+          A map whose secret key I knew, that marked
+          A passage 'neath the river. This I sought,
+          Found it unguarded--
+
+ Nin.                           By the seven winds!--
+
+          (Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.     O king!
+
+ Nin.             You're of the northern watch?
+
+ Off.                                           I am,
+          O king! The Armenians advance upon
+          The northern wall, but come with lances down!
+
+ Art.     They come in peace to meet the son of Husak!
+
+ Sem.     O, haste, my lord! Haste, Artavan to duty!
+          Their rage when they shall learn the fate of Khosrove
+          May give them courage to assail our walls!
+          Go, brother!
+
+ Nin.                   Hold! This man speaks not as madmen!
+
+ Sem.     Should I not know my brother, sir?
+
+ Nin.                                         You should.
+          Choose which is he. The other we condemn
+          To death.
+
+ Art.     (Holding out his arms)
+                    Save me, Semiramis!
+
+ Khos.    (Holding out his arms)        Save me,
+          My sister!
+
+ Sem.     (Going to Khosrove's arms)
+                      Brother!
+
+ Nin.     (To Khosrove)         Haste thee to thy office!
+          Vassin, attend him! Sumbat, be his chief!
+          We trust where trusts the queen!
+
+ Sem.     (To Khosrove)                     Give up the keys
+          To Sumbat!
+
+          (Exeunt Khosrove, Vassin, Sumbat, left rear)
+
+ Nin.     (To Artavan) You to death! (Signs to guards)
+
+ Sem.                                 My royal lord,
+          First would I question him alone, and learn
+          The truth about this passage. He may be
+          In league with traitors subtler than himself.
+          One moment, sir, I pray.
+
+ Nin.                               O, ever wise!
+          Bribe him with any promise death may keep
+          To tell you all. But do not linger, love;
+          We lose our bridal day!
+
+          (Exit, right centre. Semiramis looks at Artavan with
+          the greatest tenderness. He gazes coldly upon her, Sola
+          clinging to him)
+
+ Art.                             What would the queen?
+
+ Sem.     To be again thy sister. Dost not guess?
+          That man--
+
+ Art.                 Who can he be you prize above
+          Your honor and my life?
+
+ Sem.                             The son of him
+          Who set you free on Ninus' oath, an oath
+          Broke in the heart ere it had left the lips!
+
+ Art.     My brave Semiramis! You've saved the prince,
+          And with his life my honor! O, pardon me!
+
+ Sem.     He was escaping in your name when you
+          Arrived too soon--
+
+ Art.                         Forgive me that!
+
+ Sem.                                           And now
+          To save my brother!
+
+ Art.                         Hope it not. Be glad
+          That one is safe. Had Khosrove lost his life
+          In Ninus' court, my oath had driven me back
+          To Husak--and to death. No power then
+          Had saved me. Now--
+
+ Sem.                         Now thou shalt live!
+
+ Art.                                               Nay, see!
+          His guards watch well! There is no way.
+
+ Sem.                                             No way
+          But through the will of Ninus. He shall save thee!
+
+ Art.     O, for your own dear life, Semiramis,
+          Let Ninus know not I am Artavan!
+
+ Sem.     He dare not touch me, for the army's mine!
+
+          (Goes into Ninus' chamber)
+
+ Sol.     My love!
+
+ Art.               'Tis welcome and farewell, my Sola!
+
+ Sol.     O, she will save thee!
+
+ Art.                             Teach me not to hope.
+
+          (A band of dancing maidens enter, left, and sing a bridal
+          chorus before the doors of Ninus' chamber)
+
+                  Love and Beauty now are one,
+                    No more wandering away!
+                  Love's the sky to Beauty's sun,
+                    From him she can not stray.
+                  And he is bright by her fair light or none!
+
+                  Love and Beauty dreaming lie,
+                    Who shall say it is not meet?
+                  Who shall say, O fie, O fie,
+                    To the favor sweet
+                  That Love will ask and Beauty not deny?
+
+          (Maidens dance out, right. Re-enter Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.     He's wild with rage! I can not calm him!
+
+ Sol.                                               Oh,
+          To lose thee now!
+
+          (Enter Ninus. He advances upon Semiramis)
+
+ Nin.                       Who is he, then--that man--
+          If not thy brother? To whose arms you went
+          As you have never come to mine?
+
+ Sem.                                     A man
+          Whose life you owed to me by holiest promise
+          And oath unto the gods! I saved your soul
+          When I so saved--
+
+ Nin.                       Speak! Who?
+
+ Sem.                                   The son of Husak,
+          Prince Khosrove, of Armenia!
+
+          (Utter silence. Ninus stands choked and dumb; then moves
+          to strike Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.                                   Strike me
+          You strike your army!
+
+          (Ninus drops his hand and stares at her, livid and shaken,
+          then turns fiercely upon Artavan)
+
+ Sem.     (Rushes before him and falls, clinging to his knees)
+                                Wait, O wait, my lord!
+          If thou dost Hope to know my love! Dost dream
+          Of bridal joy! Wouldst rest thy head in peace
+          Upon my bosom, say thou wilt forgive!
+          And I, too, will forgive! No more will ask
+          What thou hast done or not done! All thy past
+          Is fair as Heaven by this moment's sun!
+          I'll love thee as thou hadst been born this hour
+          That gives my brother life! O, speak the word,
+          And take me to thy heart--thy wife--thy slave--
+
+ Nin.     By earth and heaven, he shall die--and now!
+
+          (Raises his dagger to strike. Enter Vassin)
+
+ Vas.     (Excitedly) My lord, this is the strangest governor!
+          He ordered me with Sumbat to lead out
+          The city troops beyond the southern gate,
+          Then spurred to north! Sumbat obeyed, but I,
+          Not liking this, returned to you!
+
+ Nin.                                       'Tis Khosrove!
+
+ Vas.     (Staggered)
+          Then we are lost!
+
+ Nin.                       Pursue him! Fly! Call back
+          Our troops!
+
+ Vas.                 Too late! By now they're locked without
+          The southern wall, and Khosrove rides to ope
+          The north to Husak!
+
+ Sem.     (Aside)             False! Down, slanderous thought
+          That darkens me not him! That face that looked
+          As Truth had chosen it to show her own
+          To man! That voice--each word the enchanted door
+          To holier worlds unspoken! No. I'll trust!
+
+          (Enter an officer)
+
+ Off.     O, great Assyria, the Armenians come!
+          The Gazim traitor's sold thee unto Husak!
+          Thy foes are pouring through the northern gate
+          And bear down on the palace! Sumbat holds
+          Thy troops upon the southern plain And bars
+          All passage! There's no help!
+
+          (Ninus listens speechless)
+
+ Attendants. (Running in)               O, we are lost!
+
+ Off.     The city will be sacked! The palace guards
+          Are but a handful!
+
+ Sem.                         False? O, Khosrove! False?
+          Then there is no man true? E'en Sumbat lost
+          To thy sweet promises! False! false!
+
+          (Enter a second officer)
+
+ Off.     (Prostrating himself)                 Oh Ninus!
+          Call on thy gods! Thy enemies are at thee!
+          The palace is enclosed, and every foe
+          Bears in his hand a torch that blazes death
+          To all within!
+
+          (The inmates of the palace are running to and fro, rear,
+          and looking fearfully out into the court below)
+
+ Sem.                     O beauteous gods, is this
+          Your earth? Where Falsehood steals your garments, nay
+          Your smile, seduces with your voice, and stamps
+          Your semblance upon fiends?
+
+ Voices.                              Save us, O king!
+
+          (Ninus stands immovable, as if made deaf and dumb by
+          impending disaster)
+
+ Voice.   We burn! They cast the brands!
+
+ Another.                                 Not yet! They wait!
+
+ Voices of prostrate figures.             Save us, O king!
+
+ Voice.   See! see! The leader speaks!
+
+ Another.                               His herald! Hear!
+
+          (A trumpet sounds below)
+
+ Voice of Khosrove's herald.            Assyria, come forth!
+
+          (All within listen, silent, eager, fearful)
+
+          Hear thou, O Ninus! Hear the word of Khosrove!
+          He will depart with the Armenian troops,
+          And leave the city free of sword and fire,
+          If thou'lt decree that Artavan shall live
+          Free and unharmed!
+
+          (The face of Semiramis illumines with joy)
+
+                              Deny and Nineveh
+          Shall flame!
+
+ Nin.     My herald there! Stand forth!
+
+          (The herald of Ninus takes station centre rear)
+
+                                        Decree
+          As Khosrove wills!
+
+ Her. of Khos.                Appear, O Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                                           No!
+
+ Her. of Khos.
+          Appear, O Ninus!
+
+          (Ninus goes slowly to rear and stands by his herald)
+
+ Her. of Khos.              Hear, all Nineveh!
+          Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god!
+          That Artavan, the brother of the queen,
+          Shall freely live, and die by no man's hand!
+
+ Her. of Ninus. (Blows trumpet, then speaks)
+
+          Hear the decree of Ninus, king and god,
+          That Artavan, the brother of the queen,
+          Shall freely live, and die by no man's hand!
+
+          (Silence. The voice of Khosrove below)
+
+ Khos.    Assyria, speak!
+
+ Nin.                     I, Ninus, so decree!
+
+          (Staggers back toward front as all press to rear to see
+          the troops go out. Semiramis, Artavan and Sola stand
+          together gazing out)
+
+ Sem.     O, Khosrove! See--he rides--away--away!
+
+          (Leans forward waving her scarf. Ninus, alone in front,
+          goes toward his chamber, falls on the steps overpowered
+          with rage and lifts his clenched hands)
+
+ Nin.     O, vengeance! Vengeance for a king!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene: The gardens over the lake. A wide bridge extends from the
+bank of the lake, left, to the gardens which are partly visible on
+the right. At the rear, right, is a garlanded archway. At the
+left, front, steps lead from the bridge to the bank and top of the
+bridge. Beyond the bridge, rear, clouds show that the sun is
+setting.
+
+A score of spearmen, with lances down, march in right, front, and
+out through archway, right, rear.
+
+Enter, right, front, the king and Sumbat. The king is royally clad
+and crowned; Sumbat in official robe.
+
+ Sumbat.  Khosrove delays.
+
+ Nin.                       But do not doubt he'll come.
+          I have his word, and couriers have seen
+          His horsemen on the plain.
+
+ Sum.                                 How noble, sir,
+          To close the Feast of Peace with supreme revel
+          In honor of your foe!
+
+ Nin.                           Not foe, good Sumbat.
+          We have no foes. Our queen's triumphant arms
+          Have made glad subjects of all enemies
+          But one, and him we make our friend. To-night
+          Assyria and Armenia sup as one!
+
+          (Turns toward right, rear)
+
+          We'll see if all's prepared as we gave order.
+
+          (Exeunt under the arch of garlands. Dancers enter, right,
+          front, and pass out through arch. Following them, Semiramis
+          with her women. All are in rich attire but the queen who
+          wears simple white robe. A dove nestles on her bosom. She
+          gives the women leave to pass on and they go out merrily
+          through arch, right, rear. Semiramis lingers; comes to the
+          railing of the bridge, centre, and leans upon it)
+
+ Sem.     Will Khosrove come? I do not doubt the king,--
+          And yet--I pray he will not come!
+
+          (Re-enter Sumbat, through arch. He comes out to the queen)
+
+ Sem.                                       You, Sumbat?
+          Where is the king?
+
+ Sum.                         I left him in the garden,
+          Giving new orders for Prince Khosrove's honor.
+
+ Sem.     Sumbat, you trust the king?
+
+ Sum.                                 I do. You've wrought
+          Such noble change in him that drop by drop
+          He's mated all his blood unto your virtues.
+
+ Sem.     I must believe it, lest a doubt should breed
+          The weakness it suspects. But is 't not strange
+          Khosrove should trust him too?
+
+ Sum.                                     He knows that you
+          Would warn him if there lay a danger here.
+
+ Sem.     I warn him? But suppose the warning false?
+          'T would wrong the king, whose purpose seems so pure
+          It might have journeyed with his soul when first
+          It came from Heaven! No. I'll answer for him!
+          He could not counterfeit so deep my eyes
+          Would find no bottom to deceit!... But now
+          What hast thou heard of Artavan?
+
+ Sum.                                       No word.
+
+ Sem.     I fear--
+
+ Sum.               He's safe. Be sure of that. No man
+          Would dare lay finger on him!
+
+ Sem.                                   But to go
+          Without a word! Poor Sola grieves, and weeps
+          As though she'd drown her wits in tears.
+
+          (A boat glides from under the bridge and over the water
+          beneath them)
+
+                                                    See there!
+          'Tis she! Alone below!
+
+          (Sola alights from boat and runs up steps to the bridge)
+
+                                  I'll speak to her.
+
+          Go, Sumbat! (Sumbat goes off right)
+
+                      Sister, stay.
+
+          (Stops Sola as she is passing)
+
+                                    Why do you run?
+
+ Sol.     I'm running from the king!
+
+ Sem.                                 The king, my love?
+          There's no king here.
+
+ Sol.                           Nay, he's below!
+
+ Sem.                                             Below?
+
+ Sol.     Under the bridge with Vassin!
+
+ Sem.                                   Vassin? No.
+          The king has sent him out of Nineveh!
+
+ Sol.     He did not go. I swear that he's below!
+
+ Sem.     What were you doing 'neath the bridge?
+
+ Sol.                                             Ah me,
+          I seek in every place for Artavan.
+          I'll save him from the king!
+
+ Sem.                                   So kind a king?
+
+ Sol.     O, kind! As death, or plague, or leprosy!
+          'Tis he has taken revenge on Artavan!
+          He'll kill the prince, too, when he comes!
+
+ Sem.                                                 My child--
+
+ Sol.     (Pointing down)
+          I heard them talking there!
+
+ Sem.                                 Thy husband's safe.
+          Bethink thee that the king's decree protects him.
+
+ Sol.     Not from the king! From man, not from the gods,
+          And Ninus is a god, or dreams he is!
+
+ Sem.     From man--not from--no, no! I will not say
+          Or think it! My poor child--
+
+ Sol.                                   You'll save the prince?
+          'Tis you he trusts, not Ninus!
+
+ Sem.                                     Sweet, be calm.
+          You did not see the king.
+
+ Sol.                               Hear all, and save him!
+          When Khosrove takes the seat of highest honor,
+          Lord of the Revels by Assyria's favor,
+          The floor will part, the chair fall to the lake,
+          Where Vassin waits to slay him, while the king
+          Strikes down in wrath the master of the feast
+          For fault of accident!
+
+ Sem.                             Where are your wits?
+          See, yonder comes the king!
+
+          (Re-enter Ninus through archway)
+
+ Sem.     (As he approaches)          Is all prepared,
+          My lord?
+
+ Sol.     (To Semiramis)
+                    'Tis true--true--true!
+
+          (Runs off, right)
+
+ Nin.                                       Ay, all is ready
+          Except the queen. What means these simple robes,
+          Semiramis?
+
+ Sem.                 A compliment unto
+          Your majesty.
+
+ Nin.                   It shows more like affront!
+          I would have Khosrove see a splendor here
+          Unpainted in the daring of his dream,
+          And thou the star of it! A merchant's daughter
+          Would robe her handmaid with more care--lend her
+          A pearl or two--a bit of scarf--or scrap
+          Of tinsel sun--
+
+ Sem.                     My lord--
+
+ Nin.                               A compliment!
+          'Tis your disdain--
+
+ Sem.                         It grieves me, sir, that you
+          Should read in outward sign what never yet
+          Was in my soul. Our wars are done, my lord;
+          And exultation of the conquering hour
+          Calms into peace; as I laid armor by
+          For victor robes and symbol of my glory,
+          I now cast off the purple of the queen,
+          And but remember that I am a wife.
+
+ Nin.     (Embracing her)
+          Beloved Semiramis! Forgive thy slave!
+          No royal dye could shine so to my eyes
+          As this soft white put on for me alone!
+          Thy pardon, love, and thou shalt shortly learn
+          A king, too, knows how best to compliment!
+          An honor waits for thee--
+
+          (Enter officer, left)
+
+ Off.                               O king!
+
+ Nin.                                       We hear!
+
+ Off.     The Armenian approaches.
+
+ Nin.                               Khosrove comes?
+
+          (Semiramis watches the king closely)
+
+ Off.     He comes, great Ninus!
+
+ Nin.                             Well, and more than well!
+          Summon our train. (Exit officer, right) But one is lacking here,
+          Our brother--Artavan.
+
+ Sem.                           My lord--you think--
+
+ Nin.     Who would dare harm him? He is safe.
+
+ Sem.     (Coming very near him) From man,
+          Not from the gods.
+
+ Nin.     (Stepping back)     What do you mean?
+
+ Sem.                                           The truth!
+
+ Nin.     (Seizing her arm)
+          It is not so! I do deny it!
+
+ Sem.     (Calmly)                    What,
+          My lord?
+
+ Nin.               What meant you when you said 'the truth'!
+
+ Sem.     That gods may work some harm to Artavan.
+
+ Nin.     (At ease) True, love! Uncertain is their favor. Look!
+          He comes! (Gazing off left)
+
+ Sem.     (Aside)   He's false! And if he's false in this--then is--
+          O, Khosrove, thou art lured to death! And I
+          Have been thy traitorous star!
+
+          (Enter Khosrove, left, attended by Armenians)
+
+ Nin.                                     Hail, Khosrove! Hail!
+
+ Assyrians.
+          Hail to Armenia! Hail!
+
+ Khos.                            O, Ninus, hail!
+
+ Armenians.
+          Hail to Assyria, greatest over kings!
+
+ Nin.     Thou'rt welcome, and we thank thee for thy trust,
+          Which we'll betray when Heaven has no god
+          To damn our treachery! In proof of faith,
+          Wear thou the royal dagger with thy own.
+
+          (Detaches his weapon, which he gives to Khosrove)
+
+          Our queen--has she no word?
+
+          (Khosrove bows low before Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.                                 Peace and long life
+          To Khosrove.
+
+ Nin.                   Now to revel! Sound the trumpets!
+
+          (Exeunt officers through archway. Trumpets sound from the
+          gardens. Dancing maidens in white robes, each with a dove
+          resting on her hand, enter right front, reach the centre
+          of the stage, and begin the dance of doves. As the maidens
+          describe circles in the dance the doves rise and fly in
+          similar circles above their heads, and re-alight on their
+          extended hands)
+
+ Sem.     (Who has stood aside during the dance, apparently disturbed)
+          It is not true! Were any man so vile
+          Nature would spurn him back to chaos ere
+          His mother had beheld him!
+
+          (The dance ends. The maidens pass out under arch. All move
+          to follow when Ninus speaks)
+
+ Nin.                                 Stay! Hear, all!
+          Before we feast in honor of our guest,
+          We would do honor to our noble queen,
+          Whose arms of might have brought our land to peace.
+          Whose looks of love have brought our heart to rest!
+          To-night we doff our crown that she may wear it!
+
+          (Removing crown)
+
+          And here decree her word shall be obeyed
+          Above our own.
+
+          (Puts crown on the queen's head)
+
+                          Dost like our compliment?
+
+ Sem.     It is too much, my king.
+
+ Nin.     (Kneeling)                Nay, nay, thy subject!
+
+          (Semiramis seems gay with a sudden resolve)
+
+ Sem.     If it so please thee then I'll be the king!
+
+ Nin.     (Rising) We have decreed. If any here refuse
+          To honor thy command, though thou shouldst doom
+          My death, himself that instant dies. (To officer)
+                                                You, sir,
+          Take order for it, and if your own hand fail,
+          When we are king again we'll have your head!
+
+ Off.     My arm be as your will, my lord!
+
+ Sem.                                       O, then
+          I have a wish I did not dare to voice.
+
+ Nin.     Command it now.
+
+ Sem.                     It hath much troubled me
+          That Khosrove should be honored over you,
+          Lord of the Revels.
+
+ Khos.    (Astonished)        Lady--
+
+ Sem.                                 King, if 't please you!
+          I've laid my purple by, but I have still
+          The royal color in my heart. Think'st thou
+          To sit above Assyria, who wearest not
+          The brave investment of the gods? who hold'st
+          Thy sceptre still from warrior chiefs, not from
+          Anointed kings?
+
+ Khos.                    Because my race is proud!
+          Too proud to kneel to any earthly king
+          And take the sacred vestment from his hands!
+
+ Sem.     You see, my lord, that even in his heart
+          He ranks himself above you!
+
+ Nin.                                 But, my love--
+
+ Khos.    Farewell! Thou didst me service once, and here
+          I thought to thank thee, but--
+
+ Nin.                                     Stay, Khosrove, stay!
+
+ Khos.    Farewell, with all my heart!
+
+ Nin.                                   Nay--
+
+ Sem.                                         O, my lord.
+          Let him depart. He mocks our glory, and bears
+          A challenge in his proud simplicity
+          That puts our splendor to defense.
+
+ Khos.                                        Nay, madam!
+          I came to lay my duty at your feet,
+          And lift my eyes no higher than your hand
+          Without your royal leave! But now I'll cast
+          My gaze upon the stars, forgetting that
+          You walk beneath them! (Going)
+
+ Nin.                             Stay, O prince!
+
+          (To Semiramis)
+          A boon, your majesty! 'T would blot our honor
+          To send him from us thus! We shall be plunged
+          Anew in wars, for Husak will avenge it!
+          I am thy most unhappy subject, and
+          Thou'lt hear my prayer!
+
+          (Goes after Khosrove and leads him back)
+
+                                  You'll stay, O Khosrove?
+
+ Khos.                                                      Ay,
+          On one condition.
+
+ Nin.                       Name it!
+
+ Khos.                                That you will take
+          Our seat at feast.
+
+ Nin.                         Nay--
+
+ Sem.                               That is our command!
+
+ Nin.     No, no!
+
+ Sem.             We'll have it so!
+
+ Nin.                               I'll not consent!
+
+ Sem.     It is our royal order! Guards for Ninus!
+
+ Nin.     What do you mean?
+
+ Sem.                       To have our way! Guards here!
+          You shall not do this wrong to your high self!
+          We'll look unto your honor! (To guards) Bear him in!
+
+          (Guards stand in amazement)
+
+          Did ye not hear the king's decree? I reign!
+
+          (Guards take hold of Ninus)
+
+ Nin.     By Hut and Nim!
+
+ Sem.                     Place him in Khosrove's seat!
+
+          (Guards draw Ninus through the archway. Khosrove follows,
+          then all but Semiramis, who lingers fearfully, runs
+          toward front, then back and listens)
+
+ Sem.     'Tis true! What have I done? Ye gods! 'tis true!
+          He would not so rebel if 't were not true!
+          But Vassin is below! He'll know his king
+          And save him!
+
+          (Kneels)      Belus, mighty Belus, pardon!
+
+          (The sun has set, and red clouds show almost black over
+          water, rear. The front of stage is nearly dark. Lights
+          glimmer from the gardens, and a faint torch shows in the
+          darkness under the bridge. Shouts and shrieks come from
+          within. People rush out)
+
+ Voices.  The king! the king!
+
+ Sem.     (Retreating to railing, front)
+                              'Tis done!
+
+ Officer. (Running across)                The king has fallen
+          Into the lake! Lights there! below!
+          (Runs down steps leading under the bridge)
+
+ Other officers following.                    Lights! lights!
+
+          (Torches flare under the bridge. Darkness above as the
+          last light fades from the sky. A moment of noise and
+          search, and officers appear on the bridge, right, rear,
+          with Vassin. A guard bears torch which throws light on his
+          face)
+
+ Sem.     (Confronting him)
+          You've saved the king!
+
+ Vas.                             I have. For I have slain
+          His foe!
+
+ Sem.               His foe? No--you have killed the king!
+
+          (Falls back into the arms of her women. Complete darkness
+          on stage. An instant later moonlight. Khosrove and
+          Semiramis alone on the bridge, centre, front)
+
+ Khos.    (Bowing ceremoniously)
+          Farewell, Assyria!
+
+ Sem.                         O, not that name!
+          Not yet--not yet.
+
+ Khos.                      Does it not please your pride?
+
+ Sem.     My pride? 'Tis gone. Now I could lay my head
+          Upon the dust.
+
+ Khos.                    In truth! But you'll not do it!
+          Humility's a word the great think sweet
+          Upon the tongue, but near the heart they find
+          It loseth flavor!
+
+ Sem.                       Ah ... you do not know?
+          You think the words I spoke were born of pride?
+          So far from that--no, no--I will not tell,
+          And yet you wrong me, prince.
+
+ Khos.                        (Eagerly) Did you suspect
+          Some danger to me here, and seek to force
+          My angry leave? You did not care so much?
+
+ Sem.     I cared so much that rather than betray you
+          I would have let you go believing me
+          A woman worth your scorn. Ah, there my pride
+          In truth did suffer!
+
+ Khos.                          O, Semiramis!
+          Thou art the same as when I saw thee last?
+          As when I rode away and left thy face--
+          The only face in Nineveh--nay--I--
+          Will go. Farewell, most noble queen!
+
+ Sem.                                           Farewell!
+
+          (He lingers)
+
+ Sem.     Why go in haste?
+
+ Khos.                      I left my father sick.
+          He will be troubled till I come again.
+
+ Sem.     How dared you trust--
+
+ Khos.                          What would I not have dared
+          To look on thee again?... My horsemen wait....
+
+          (Waving toward left)
+
+          I come!
+
+ Sem.             Farewell!... Armenia is my friend?
+          I'm sad.... The manner of this death.... It weighs
+          Upon me.
+
+ Khos.              Let it not. Thou'rt innocent
+
+ Sem.     O, some may doubt!
+
+ Khos.                        But who wrongs Virtue puts
+          A crown upon her! If thou hadst foreknown
+          The accident--
+
+ Sem.                     The accident?
+
+ Khos.                                  'Twas not
+          Designed?
+
+ Sem.               It was ... for you.
+
+ Khos.                                  By Ninus?
+
+ Sem.                                             Ay.
+          You were to die.
+
+ Khos.                      Then you--you knew--that he--
+
+          (Starts from her in horror)
+
+ Sem.     What's in thy mind? What thought doth paint thy face
+          In dreadful silence? Oh! you think that I--
+
+          (Looks at him with equal horror. Removes farther from him,
+          regains composure, and speaks with haughty coldness)
+
+          This serves me well! Right well, Armenian!
+          Yes--yes--I knew--I knew the king would fall.
+          But knew, too, sir, that Vassin was below,
+          And, by my precious gods, I did not dream
+          He would not save his king! While you--my guest--
+          You would have gone to death!
+
+ Khos.                                  Forgive me!
+
+          (Semiramis walks farther, not heeding him)
+
+                                                    Oh,
+          I found a stream that ran from heavenly springs
+          And in it cast the soot of hell!
+
+ Sem.                                       Well served--
+          Well served, Semiramis!... I was so sad ...
+          And would not be content to let him go ...
+          I wanted but a word ... a word to cheer me ...
+          And now I have it--murderess!
+
+ Khos.    (Who has advanced to her)     No, no,
+          I did not say it!
+
+ Sem.                       The tongue may well keep silent
+          When eyes speak lightning. I have heard too much!
+          'T were better I had let you die!
+
+ Khos.                                      Ay, better ...
+          Better than this!
+
+ Sem.                       Now, now I am Assyria!
+          No more a woman! Softness to the winds!
+          And let my heart be as my armor--steel!
+
+ Khos.    Thou canst not make it so by saying it.
+          There is no cold or heat may temper hearts
+          Away from their true nature. Mail thyself
+          From head to foot, thou'rt still Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     A queen!
+
+          (An officer enters, left)
+
+ Off.               Your majesty, an urgent hand
+          Brings this report.
+
+          (Gives paper to her, which she reads)
+
+ Sem.                         The Ghecs are in revolt!
+          Thank them for me! They could not show me favor
+          More to my heart!
+
+          (Exit officer, left)
+
+                            I'm sick of peace--this peace
+          That gives men time to brood and breed foul thoughts
+          And fouler deeds! Give me the open war whose blows
+          Rain down as free as moonbeams from the sun!
+          Who meets me there I know, at least, he's brave,
+          And there--
+
+ Khos.                Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.     (Proudly)               Armenia, speak!
+          You have our leave.
+
+ Khos.                        These Ghecs--my father is
+          Their ancient, sworn ally!
+
+ Sem.                                 Well, sir?
+
+ Khos.                                            His oath
+          Binds him to give them aid.
+
+ Sem.                                 The braver then
+          The battle!
+
+ Khos.    I am my father's son!
+
+ Sem.                           You mean
+          We'll meet upon the field!
+
+ Khos.                                I can not take
+          The field against you!
+
+ Sem.                             No? Why not?
+
+ Khos.                                          You know!
+          Because I love you!
+
+ Sem.                         Sir, I am Assyria!
+
+ Khos.    Nay, but Menones' daughter! She whose heart
+          I touched--
+
+ Sem.                 You touched?
+
+ Khos.                              Ere taint of pride or power
+          Or mad ambition had laid a canker there!
+          When she was maiden still, and knew no thought
+          She might not whisper in her father's ear!
+          Gentle as Spring when hushing the young dove,
+          But strong from virgin battle, with the flush
+          Of valorous purpose pure as goddess' dream
+          Starting the noble war-blood in her cheek!
+          'Tis she I speak to now--she that I love--
+          Not the proud queen grown bold in blood and triumph!
+          Love me, Semiramis! You shall have peace!
+          Not this sick peace that turns your heart to hate,
+          But peace that charms the beauty back to life
+          And new dreams to the soul! O, no more war!
+          Then lilies springing in thy steps shall say
+          What fairer grace went by! These fingers shall
+          Forget the sword whose music is men's groans,
+          And on sweet strings draw out the heart of love
+          To give the world the key of melody!
+          Ah, you shall war no more--
+
+ Sem.                                 Sir, you forget!
+          These Ghecs--
+
+ Khos.                  Will not revolt if I become
+          Assyria's head! They trust me as their--
+
+ Sem.                                               You!
+          Assyria's head! You! you! O, now I see!
+          I'm not yet blind, although my heart was fast
+          Upstealing to my eyes to make me so!
+
+ Khos.    O clear thy sight a second time, my queen,
+          And read me true!
+
+ Sem.                       And you had almost moved me!
+
+ Khos.    Melt, stony eyes--
+
+ Sem.                         The magic's left the earth
+          That had the power to soften them!
+
+ Khos.                                        Not so--
+
+ Sem.     You'd keep me still the general's humble daughter
+          While you would wear the glory I have won!
+
+ Khos.    Nay, by Mylitta's fire!--
+
+ Sem.                               We'd war no more.
+          For who has all may well hang by the sword!
+
+ Khos.    By Heaven, I--
+
+ Sem.                     O, you are man as _he_ was!
+
+          (Looks toward the garden shuddering)
+
+          I'll trust no more! Who's worthy trust will give it!
+          So saidst thou once! But thou couldst doubt--so dark
+          A doubt my soul--
+
+ Khos.                      Nay, that's not my offense!
+          You are a woman, and you must forgive!
+          But you are queen, too, and the queen in you
+          Guards her ambition from my honest love
+          Lest it divide her glory!
+
+ Sem.                               True, she guards it!
+          Out of Assyrian stone I'll make a heart
+          And wear it in my bosom!
+
+ Khos.                              Do not say it!
+          I did not mean the words! They are not so!
+          Thou dost not know thyself! Hard are the lips
+          That never know a kiss, and thine were made
+          With softness of the rose! Though all the streams
+          Of power on earth poured to thy sovereign sea,
+          Still wouldst thou want, and empty be the heart
+          One drop of love would fill!
+
+ Sem.                                   You speak
+          As to a woman!
+
+ Khos.                    Ay, for so thou art!
+          Be now thyself! Thy peace alone I plead!
+          I can bear all but thy unhappiness!
+          For love--true love--forgets itself and makes
+          But one prayer unto Heaven--prayer for the good
+          Of the beloved!
+
+ Sem.                     Thou wouldst not share my throne?
+
+ Khos.    Thy throne?
+
+ Sem.                 Ay, so I said.
+
+ Khos.                                I care not for it,
+          But since 'tis thine, I could not be a man
+          Worthy thyself and take a place beneath thee.
+          I'd be thy husband, and I know thou'rt not
+          A woman to look down and love!
+
+ Sem.                                     O theft
+          In argument! To make my monarch soul
+          Speak from thy mouth against me!
+
+ Khos.                                      Not against thee!
+          To beg thee yield to love is but to plead
+          Thy greater cause! Ah, days will come to thee
+          When all the maiden in thy heart will rise
+          And drown the queen's! Thou canst not call me back!
+          To-morrow is the battle! O, I lied
+          To say thou wert ambitious and ungentle--
+
+ Sem.     No, thou didst not! 'Tis true! I am--
+
+ Khos.                                          No, no!
+          I'll prove it is not so! See here--the dove--
+          That nestles at your breast! Why is it here?
+
+ Sem.     Because I was a woman once--and dreamed
+          On foolish, woman things! (Frees bird from her bosom)
+                                    Fly! fly!
+          And as I pluck thee out I pluck away
+          All thought of mortal love, and stand alone
+          Beneath Assyria's crown!
+
+ Khos.    (Gazes at her in despair) Then I'll be gone!
+
+ Sem.     You've pleaded well, but my domains are broad,
+          And might give tongue to wilder eloquence
+          Without love's sweet excuse!
+
+ Khos.                                  No more! I go!
+
+          (Moves off, left. Near exit, turns)
+
+          I lead my father's troops!
+
+ Sem.                                 I lead my own!
+
+          (Exit Khosrove. She looks after him without moving until
+          he passes out of sight. The moonlight is less bright. Her
+          dove flies over her head. She starts and looks after it.
+          The bird alights. She watches it eagerly and waits. It
+          circles about her, then darts to her bosom. With an
+          exultant moan she clasps it to her breast)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene: Within Husak's tent. Husak, Khosrove, Armenian lords and
+soldiers.
+
+ Husak.   Bring in the widow!
+
+          (Exeunt officers)
+
+                              Now, my son, thou'lt see
+          Assyria at thy feet. Ay, she who scorned
+          To match her crown with thine, shall low as earth
+          Cry up for favor!
+
+ Khos.                      Sir, I would not see it!
+
+ Hus.     Still in that humor? Well, I promise thee
+          She shall have mercy.
+
+ Khos.                          Mercy, father?
+
+ Hus.                                           Ay.
+
+ Khos.    What wilt thou grant?
+
+ Hus.                           Ask of thy heart,
+
+          (Khosrove is about to speak)            Peace, boy!
+          For once we'll be a father, not a soldier! Wait!
+
+          (Khosrove kneels and kisses his father's hand as Semiramis
+          enters between guards. She is robed and crowned, her arms
+          fettered with golden chains, and holds herself proudly,
+          not looking at Husak. She turns to Khosrove, who watches
+          her eagerly)
+
+ Sem.     We meet again. Wert thou upon the field?
+          I saw thee not. Perchance thy father thought
+          'T were wise to find his health and lead his troops
+          Lest _Love_ should blunt thy sword!
+
+ Hus.                                         By Bel, his sword
+          Was sharp enough to find the heart of Sumbat,--
+          Your general!
+
+ Sem.                   Sumbat slain! (Turns to Khosrove)
+                                      and slain by you!
+
+ Khos.    I had my choice--to slay him or to die.
+
+ Sem.     (With bitter scorn)
+          And did the love that makes one prayer to Heaven
+          Rule in that choice?
+
+ Hus.                           These taunts, Semiramis--
+
+ Khos.    Nay, father, she has cause to use me so.
+
+ Sem.     Oh, you confess you played with me! Then, heart,
+          In with thy scorn for this outbraves thy own!
+
+          (Turns away, folding her chained hands on her breast, and
+          stands as if she would speak no more)
+
+ Hus.     You make no suit for mercy?
+
+ Sem.     (Turning to him)            What! from thee?
+          Who kill your captives ere your tent is struck,
+          Nor spare a guard to drive them from the field?
+
+ Hus.     I grant what I would ask--death before serfdom!
+          You'd keep them for your dogs and slaves!
+
+ Sem.                                               And when
+          Am I to die? Why breach thy custom now?
+
+ Hus.     We like your spirit, but push not so far,
+          Or we shall break the bounds we've set ourselves.
+          Have you not found us gracious to your rank?
+          You look not like a prisoner!
+
+ Sem.                                   No thanks
+          For that! This robe and crown, these chains of gold
+          Are compliments that Husak pays himself,
+          Proclaiming him a royal victory,
+          Though not a royal victor!
+
+ Hus.                                 What! Dar'st fling
+          Into my face that the Armenian kings
+          Rule unanointed? Dost think that I would sue
+          To Nineveh or Babylon for leave
+          To take my kingly emblems from their hands?
+          But thou--thou shalt owe thine to me! I wear
+          No proud insignia of the gods, and yet
+          My hands shall strip and clothe thee as I will!
+
+          (Tears off her robe and crown)
+
+ Khos.    Father!
+
+ Hus.             By sun and moon--
+
+ Khos.                              O, sir--
+
+ Hus.                                         Her pride
+          Insults my mercy, but I'll keep my word.
+          Take these. (Gives him the robe and crown)
+                      Now, woman, learn that Husak--ay,
+          Husak, the Fierce, can pity fallen glory!
+          Stand forth, my son! Look, captive, on this prince!
+          A man not made to sue to less than gods!
+          Make him thy husband-king, and from his hands
+          Receive thy purple and remount thy throne!
+
+          (All are astonished. Khosrove shrinks back in shame, which
+          Semiramis misunderstands)
+
+ Sem.     Methinks this lover makes no ardent suit,
+          King Husak! Why, the sun has not twice set
+          Since he did swear me dearer than my crown,
+          And now the crown's too much if my poor self
+          Must burden it!
+
+          (Khosrove kneels before her, holding up the crown)
+
+ Hus.                     Rise, sir! You give, not sue!
+
+          (Semiramis looks down on Khosrove, then turns to Husak)
+
+ Sem.                                         Thank, thanks,
+          Old man, for making me once more myself!
+          For by the blood that storms through all my veins
+          I know I'm still a queen! Now all the pride
+          That lives in my lost crown, and all the scorn
+          Should meet thy fawning suit, be in my words,--
+          I do refuse your son! Assyria
+          Shall owe her throne to none!
+
+          (Khosrove springs up, trampling the robe)
+
+ Hus.                                   Now thou wilt rise!
+          A prince who might have gone with gods to wive
+          Nor bated them in choice! This to my face!
+          I, Husak, fawn on woman! Out with her!
+          Drag her to death! To instant death! Out! out!
+
+          (Guards approach Semiramis)
+
+ Khos.    To _instant_ death?
+
+ Hus.     (Looks searchingly at him.) Ha! ha! Not yet! She's thine!
+          Choose thy revenge! Have now thy will!
+
+ Khos.                                            Thou'lt grant it?
+
+ Hus.     Ay, ay, whate'er thou wouldst!
+
+ Khos.                                    She is thy captive.
+
+ Hus.     I make her thine! My conqueror's right I yield
+          To thee!
+
+ Khos.              Dost swear it?
+
+ Hus.                               Doubt me not! I swear!
+
+ Khos.    By Belus' star?
+
+ Hus.                     By Belus' star, whose beams
+          Are death to breakers of an oath! We ask
+          This crown--no more. (Takes crown from Khosrove's hand)
+                                You pause. Stand not, my son.
+          Thy vengeance waits. Do what thou wilt with her,
+          We'll question not.
+
+          (Khosrove strikes off the chains of Semiramis)
+
+ Khos.                        Go free to Nineveh.
+
+          (Husak stands in amazed silence, then understands and burns
+          with speechless anger. At last he speaks slowly with intense
+          wrath)
+
+ Hus.     All madmen in my kingdom die! Bind him!
+
+          (Guards bind Khosrove)
+
+ Sem.     Die? No! O, sir, you would not slay your son?
+
+ Hus.     This loathsome thing is not my flesh!
+
+ Sem.                                           Thy son!
+
+ Hus.     We have no son. Armenia has no heir.
+          Bear him away!
+
+ Sem.     (Holding out her hands) My chains! Dost think I'll owe
+          My life to him? Thou know'st not yet my pride!
+          Bind me and set him free!
+
+ Hus.     (Thunderingly)            No! Husak breaks
+          No oath! We're not a god as Nineveh,
+          And bold to mock at Heaven!
+
+ Khos.    (To Semiramis)              I knew the price,
+          And chose to pay it. 'Tis my wish. Farewell!
+
+          (Guards bear him out)
+
+ Hus.     (To Semiramis) Go free to Nineveh!
+
+ Sem.                                         No! O, kill me!
+
+ Hus.     Nay, go! But go alone--on foot--and through
+          A hostile country!
+
+ Sem.                         Ah!
+
+ Hus.                             That subject who
+          Shall give thee food or drink dies in the act!
+          Proclaim it, all!... Come, friends, we've not yet held
+          The feast of victory. The slighted gods
+          Will snatch away their favor if we long
+          Delay our revels. Though we'll miss one face,
+
+          (Suppresses a groan)
+
+          We'll know this much--there'll be no traitor there!
+
+          (All leave the tent but Semiramis)
+
+ Sem.     Alone ... on foot ... and through a hostile country!
+          I'll overtake thee, Khosrove, ere thou 'st reached
+          Thy throne among the stars! Thou goest from love,
+          And wilt look back and weep from every cloud;
+          I on thy track shall pause not till our wings
+          Stir the same air and lock in kisses flying!
+          ... So pay my scorn? How then hadst loved if heart
+          Had brought to heart its swelling measure? Then
+          Our rosy hours had been the pick of time,
+          And hung a flower 'mong withered centuries
+          When every age had brought its reckoning in!
+          O, why will we, some cubits high, pluck at
+          The sun and moon, when we have that within
+          Makes us the soul and centre of Heaven itself?
+          Ambition, thou hast played away my crown
+          And life. That I forgive thee, but not this--
+          Thou 'st robbed me of the memory of his kiss.
+          ... Go, world! The conqueror's trump that closed my ears
+          Unto the angel in a lover's voice
+          Dies to a moan that fills but one lone heart.
+          And soon 'tis silent. Ah, though woman build
+          Her house of glory to the kissing skies,
+          And the proud sun her golden rafters lay,
+          And on her turrets pause discoursing gods,
+          Let her not dare forget the stanchion truth--
+          Immortal writ in every mortal face--
+          "Thou art the wife and mother of the world!"
+
+          (Sees Khosrove's cloak upon the floor, and kneels by it,
+          taking it in her hands)
+
+          My Khosrove!... Methought a god struck off my chains
+          So strong and fair he seemed, yet strove to hide
+          The beauty of his act, as might a star
+          Shrink in its own sweet light!
+
+          (Buries her face in the folds of the cloak)
+
+                                          O, noble prince,
+          I might have kissed thy lips and not thy garment!
+
+          (Rises and wraps the cloak about her. Spurns with her foot
+          her own robe which has been left trampled)
+
+          Thou purple rag, lie there! Love's vesture shall
+          Enfold me as I go!
+
+          (Starts out)        Alone ... on foot ...
+          But I've not far to journey. Foes are kind....
+          The first one met ... well, I will thank him!... Cries?
+          It is the feast. A man may feast who had--
+          But has no son!... (Startled) 'Tis not the feast!... I know
+          That noise confused--hoarse shouts--shrieks--pawing steeds--
+          And rumbling chariots! Those are the tones
+          Of battle! O, the bloody work! 'Tis war!
+          Did it delight me once?... Assyrian cries!
+          My troops! my troops! They've rallied! How they cheer!
+          What brave heart leads them on?
+
+          (Cries come nearer)
+
+                                          Poor creatures, they
+          Would save me knowing not I died with Khosrove.
+          I will not live--
+
+          (The rear of the tent is torn away by an onslaught.
+          Assyrian troops enter, led by Artavan)
+
+ Art.                       Semiramis!
+
+ Sem.                                   My brother!
+          You live!
+
+ Art.               And you!
+
+ Sem.                         Praise Heaven there is one
+          Will comfort my sad kingdom!
+
+ Art.                                   Nay, all's well!
+          The death of Ninus freed me from my prison;
+          I gathered troops and pushed hard after you,
+          To hear you had been taken; then I planned
+          This rescue. Thank great Belus, I'm in time!
+
+ Sem.     In time? Nay, thou'rt too late!
+
+ Art.                                     Too late? When thou
+          Dost live?
+
+ Sem.                 I live? No! Thou'rt deceived!
+
+ Art.                                               O Heaven!
+          ... She's dazed! Her troubles have bewildered her.
+          All's well, my sister! Husak has been taken.
+          Thy crown itself is in our hands ... The crown!
+
+          (A soldier hands it to him)
+
+          You see 'tis safe. (She takes it idly)
+
+ Sem.                         A crown. For such a thing
+          Wouldst give thy Sola?
+
+ Art.                             She is dear to me,
+          But ay, by Heaven, I would!
+
+ Sem.                                 You would? I know
+          A greater thing than this.
+
+ Art.                                 What, sister?
+
+ Sem.     (Letting the crown fall)                  Love.
+
+ Art.     O, she is crazed! This is some evil work!
+          Bring in the captive Husak! He shall speak!
+
+ Sem.     O, brother, once I thought thy love was truest
+          That ever husband gave to wife, but now
+          It showeth dark against my lover's truth!
+
+ Art.     Semiramis ... sweet sister ... What dost mean?
+          ... I'll know the cause of this! Call in the prince
+          With Husak!
+
+ Sem.                 Prince?
+
+ Art.                         Ay ... Khosrove, whom we found
+          In chains--I know not why--and I unbound him,
+          Recalling how he saved my life,--but now
+          I'll know what thou hast suffered at his hands!
+
+ Sem.     You found him bound? I can not hear--or see!
+
+ Art.     She swoons--she dies--O, true, we are too late!
+
+ Sem.     No, brother, thou'rt in time! I live! I live!
+          I am Semiramis! Give me my crown!
+          Now this small circlet seems to me the world,
+          And it is mine--to wear--or give away!
+          Is 't not, good friends?
+
+ Voices.                            Ay, 'tis!
+
+          (Enter soldiers with Husak and Khosrove, Husak in fetters)
+
+ Sem.                                         King Husak, hear!
+          Assyria and Armenia should be friends,
+          Joining true hands to bring a happy peace
+          O'er all the East. And in that dearest hope
+          I free thee. (Unbinds him) But thy son, the prince, must be
+          Again my prisoner.
+
+ Hus.                         O, queen, I've spent
+          One childless hour, and rather would I die
+          Than know another. Take my life for his.
+
+ Art.     Dost thou forget, Semiramis, that once
+          He saved thy brother?
+
+ Sem.                           I remember all,
+          But will not change his doom. He must be bound,
+          Nor from my fetters may he go alive.
+          These are his chains--(Putting her arms about his neck)
+                                  his prison deathless love,
+          And here I pray that he will wear this crown,
+          And hold with me the great Assyrian throne!
+          ... (calls) My chariot!
+
+ Khos.                            My queen! my queen!
+
+ Sem.                                                 Wilt thou
+          Consent?
+
+ Khos.    (Kisses her lips) I answer here.
+
+          (The royal chariot appears, rear. They step in)
+
+ Sem.     (Giving the reins to Khosrove)    To Nineveh!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+CARLOTTA
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. Miramar.
+    SCENE 2. In the mountains of Mexico.
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Chapultapec.
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. Before the Imperial Theatre.
+    SCENE 2. Within the theatre.
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. Queretaro.
+
+
+  ACT V.
+
+    SCENE 1. The Tuileries.
+    SCENE 2. Miramar.
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  MAXIMILIAN, Emperor of Mexico
+  CARLOTTA, Empress of Mexico
+  LOUIS NAPOLEON, Emperor of France
+  EUGENIE, Empress of France
+  BENITO JUAREZ, President of Mexico
+  IGNACIO, nephew to Juarez
+  RAFAEL MENDORES, friend of Ignacio
+  ASEFFA, wife of Rafael
+  TREVINO, ESCOBEDO, GARZA, officers in the Liberal Army
+  MIRAMON, leader of the Imperial party
+  MARSHAL BAZAINE, head of the French Army in Mexico
+  MARQUEZ, MEJIA, MENDEZ, DUPIN, LOPEZ, of the Imperial army
+  ABBOT of Lacroma
+  ARCHBISHOP LABASTIDA, head of the Mexican church
+  PRINCE SALM-SALM, friend and officer of Maximilian
+  PRINCE ZICHY,
+  RUIZ, BERZABAL, ESTRADA, Mexican nobles
+  LADY MARIA, sister to Count Charles
+  PRINCESS SALM-SALM
+  PRINCESS ZICHY
+  PRINCESS METTERNICH
+  SENOR HURBET, GENERAL CASTLENAU, MARQUIS DE GALLIFET,
+    in the service of Louis Napoleon
+  AUSTRIAN, BELGIAN, PRUSSIAN,
+    and other foreign ministers at the court of Napoleon III.
+
+  Imperial soldiers, Liberal soldiers, guards, rabble,
+  ladies of honor, officers of the court, etc., etc.
+
+
+
+
+CARLOTTA
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene I: Reception hall, castle of Miramar, near Trieste. Enter
+Count Charles, book in hand.
+
+ Char.    Ah, books must be put by for swords, I wot,
+          When this wild journey to the West begins.
+          'Tis change enough! O shifting, shuffling life!
+          Come, Shakespeare, magic mason, build me worlds
+          That never shake however winds may blow,
+          Founded on dream imperishable! (Sits and reads.
+                                          Enter Lady Maria)
+
+ Mar.                                     Charles!
+          Not reading! Dost know what day it is?
+
+ Char.                                            Ay, sister!
+          A day to make a scholar tremble, and hug
+          His books in fever of farewell.
+
+ Mar.                                     Didst see
+          The splendid carriages glittering up the drive?
+          And O, so many!
+
+ Char.                    They have arrived?
+
+ Mar.                                         Arrived!
+          Why, all the Mexican deputies, arrayed
+          Like their own sunsets,--the ambassadors
+          From Austria, Belgium, France,--the princesses,
+          And countesses, now in the guest-room wait
+          The stroke of twelve to enter! 'Tis nearly time,
+          And you sit here! Put by your Englishman!
+          Come, put him by, I say! He's dead; we live.
+          He's had his due and passed.
+
+ Char.                                  Nay, his account
+          Is writ forever current. His book of praise
+          Time closes not, but waits some language new
+          To enter it, and at his monument
+          Fame yet stands carving.
+
+ Mar.     (Taking book and closing it) So! She's time enough!
+          We've other work. (Gently) Is not the princess sad?
+
+ Char.    I pray her heavy tears, weighing like stones,
+          Will hold her back from sea!
+
+ Mar.                                   Hush, Charles! She comes!
+
+          (Enter Carlotta, richly dressed)
+
+ Car.     Ah, cousins, trimming now your smiles to greet
+          The deputies?
+
+ Char.                  Nay, calling up our tears
+          To grace farewell to Miramar!
+
+ Car.                                   No tears!
+          We'll think but of an empire and a crown,
+          Not Miramar!
+
+          (Enter Maximilian, dressed in the uniform of Vice-Admiral
+          of the Austrian navy)
+
+ Max.                   An empire and a crown?
+          At last I am out-rivalled in your heart!
+
+ Car.     Nay, nay, thou know'st, my lord, thou art my empire!
+          Grant me so much as now I look upon
+          And I'm as rich as Jove with Saturn's sceptre
+          New-swinging o'er the world!
+
+ Char.                                  Then you risk much
+          For an unstable throne.
+
+ Car.                             Not risk!
+
+ Char.                                      The men
+          Who've governed Mexico, for the most part,
+          Have paid their heads for it.
+
+ Mar.                                   O, Charles!
+
+ Char.                                              'Tis true.
+
+ Car.     Our safety is in the Emperor of France.
+          He's the strong angel in this noble scheme!
+
+ Char.    Safety in him? Nay, madam, by my soul,
+          The lightest smile that breaks upon his lips,
+          As though a breeze but touched there, hides a plot
+          May hang our hearts with lead!
+
+ Car.                                     How you misjudge him!
+          In Paris when he pledged his faith to us
+          His eyes more than his words assured his heart
+          Unto our cause. I trust him, yea, I trust him!
+
+ Char.    There is a woman on the throne of France!
+          She is the Eve to this slow-blooded Adam,
+          Dutch-born Napoleon, and holdeth up
+          The globe as 't were an apple for his hand.
+          She builds mock images of dreams that died
+          On Helena's lone rock, and teaches him
+          They are not ghosts of dream but dream indeed!
+          Mexico, burning with gold and sunset's fire,
+          Pouring the crimson of internal strife,
+          To her is but a jewel in crude bed
+          She'd have you pick and polish for her crown!
+
+ Car.     Had you but heard her sweet devoted voice
+          Pleading with us for sake of the true Church
+          To finish now this great emprise begun,
+          You would believe her holy.
+
+ Char.                                If she is holy,
+          And if Napoleon be true in this,
+          Then is he God's perfection of a man,
+          And she earth's sole and sainted paragon!
+          But wait--O wait and see ere you risk life
+          And honor!
+
+ Car.     You're wrong--so wrong--but this is strange.
+          O why are we not happy? (Turning to window and gazing out)
+
+ Char.    (Following her)         Because, my cousin,
+          This is not Miramar as we have known it.
+          The scholar's home, the soldier's fair retreat,
+          The noble heart's sweet fane and altar spot,
+          But Miramar with great ambition's storm
+          Rolling its thunders 'gainst her peaceful walls!
+
+ Max.     But to live idly is never to be born.
+          Shall we sit here at ease when God has found
+          The work for us? He with his pontiff finger
+          Points to the sea--
+
+ Car.               (Turning) Sweet Miramar!
+          If God points to the sea, why gave he this?
+          This heaven-spot, this nesting place of love,
+          Hung like a garland 'tween the sea and rocks!
+          Ah, dear my lord, some curse will follow us
+          Who can desert this peace-embalmed place
+          To seek a glory fairer but in name!
+          I dare not do it!
+
+ Max.     (Taking her hands) 'Tis you shall say, my wife.
+          If to stay here's your wish, that wish is mine,
+          Maybe I've dreamed too much of deeds of good,
+          And visionary feats in that far land;
+          Then let it be your yea or nay, my love.
+
+ Car.     O leave it not to me, for in a yea
+          My vanity will speak, and in a nay
+          My fear!
+
+ Max.               A slander on these lips? A kiss
+          Were better! (Kisses her. Enter Marquis Corio)
+
+ Cor.                   The noble guests approach. Will 't please
+          Your Highnesses assume your places?
+
+ Max.                                         Yea,
+          Or nay, Carlotta?
+
+ Mar.                       O, they come! they come!
+
+ Char.    (Hastily and earnestly)
+          Nay, if you love your lord! That is a land
+          Of murder, treason, carnage and revolt!
+          The very air cries out 'go not! go not!'
+          E'en yon cloud-turbanned peak, that never moves
+          Whate'er the circling stars propound to vex
+          His silent wisdom, warns with forbidding nod!
+          O noblest cousin--
+
+ Car.         (In agitation)  An empire! Miramar!
+
+          (Maximilian takes place centre. A table in front of him
+          covered with maps and papers. Carlotta by him, Count
+          Charles and Lady Maria in their rear. Enter Archduke of
+          Austria, and nobles, who take position at some distance
+          from Maximilian on his right. Enter Belgian Minister,
+          Abbot of Lacroma, Princess of Metternich, Princess Zichy,
+          Countess Kollonitz, and others. They stand at distance to
+          left of Maximilian. Enter the Imperial delegate, Senor
+          Hurbet, and General Frassart, Napoleon's Adjutant of the
+          Field. The former takes place immediately at Maximilian's
+          right, the latter at left of Carlotta. Marquis Corio at
+          door. Enter the Mexican deputies, Estrada, Berzabal,
+          Negrete, Ruiz, and a dozen others. Estrada, as president
+          of the deputation, makes low salute)
+
+ Max.     Welcome, my lords, to Miramar!
+
+ Est.                                     Hail, Prince,
+          And fairest princess! The grace and hope of morning
+          Be ever on your lives!
+
+ Car.                             Must noble senors,
+          We give you thanks and greeting.
+
+ Max.                                       Your presence here,
+          My lords, would move our hearts although you brought
+          No crown to guerdon welcome.
+
+ Est.                                   O, gracious prince,
+          Our tongues but feebly bear the mighty love
+          The land of Montezuma bade us lay
+          Low at your feet. Your starry virtues draw
+          Her prayers and hopes and holiest desires
+          Across the sea in humblest supplication.
+          We make no weary tale of our misfortunes;
+          They are so great the world is heavy with them,
+          And Mexico means but calamity
+          To every ear.
+
+ Max.                   My dear and honored lords,
+          The heart is granite and the veins are ice
+          That will not stir at your deep miseries.
+
+ Est.     Ah, sir, this crown is heavy, but you will bear
+          The golden weight as 't were the aureole
+          That seals the saint to God!
+
+ Max.                                   But not without
+          Consent of every subject should I wear it.
+          Does Mexico send all her hearts with you?
+
+ Ruiz.    (Spreading paper on table)
+          Read here the proclamation now in force
+          In all our provinces.
+
+ Max.                           And this has been
+          By each assembly ratified?
+
+ Berzabal.                            Ay, prince!
+          It is a nation, not these dozen men,
+          That with a million voices prays to you!
+
+ Max.     From childhood up I've sought to obey my God,
+          But never dreamed that he would bless my life
+          With such high sanction as I read herein. (Lifting paper)
+          Forgive a tear, my lords.... But we must ask
+          That crowned Europe give a sacred oath
+          To guarantee our empire's permanence.
+
+ Archduke.
+          Brother, I bring the word of Austria,
+          Whose prayers, whose arms, whose subjects' blood are yours,
+          While she has blood or arms to give!
+
+ Belgian Minister.                              For Belgium
+          I speak--the princess' true and royal father,
+          Whose little kingdom measures not his heart!
+
+ Senor Hurbet.
+          And I, my lord, have here the signed oath
+          Of Mightiest France, whose fifty-thousand men
+          Now guard the cradle of the new born peace
+          In Mexico! Read here what he will do.
+
+ Max.     (Reads) Enough.... My lords, should I accept this crown,
+          'T would be with holiest expectation
+          To reign in love and peace, but your past struggles
+          Point to a term of danger and much risk
+          Ere our star shines above all factious spite.
+          Stood I alone I should not hesitate,
+          But here is one more dear than my own life,
+          Whom I must cherish more than my own life,
+          Within whose heart I must find out my answer;
+          And God be thanked her wisdom beams so true
+          Above the hesitations of my mind
+          That I can love her yea or nay as 't were
+          By Heaven spoke!
+
+ Est.                       Then to your mercy, princess,
+          We now commit our hope.
+
+ Car.                             Most worthy lords,
+          I am so proud that I would wear a crown,
+          So pitying I would weep my heart away
+          For your sad country, and so vain I think
+          The lord that married me might lead you from
+          Rebellion's night to civil-kissing hours;
+          But yet a woman bonded unto love,
+          Not my own mistress. The life bound up with mine
+          Is dearer than the peace of any state,
+          And looking deep into your country's heart
+          I read some cruel marks of history
+          That teach me fear for any precious thing
+          Consigned unto its love.
+
+ Est.                               If ever souls
+          Lay bare to human eyes, read now in ours
+          The loyalty which you will find in every subject!
+
+ Ruiz.    Be merciful! Earth aches through her rock-ribs
+          With our old woes, and it is you may heal them!
+
+ Ber.     Pity will teach thee soon to love our land!
+
+ Car.     My lords, already I love Mexico,
+          And would forego the peace of Miramar,--
+          All happy days that from the future lean
+          To meet my smiles, as trifles whose light thought
+          Shames this great hour; but when in dream I see
+          My lord beset by foes in foreign land,
+          The help he needs beyond a three-months' sea,
+          My princess pride flags to a peasant fear
+          For one dear life!
+
+ Est.                         Wrong not yourself, your lord,
+          And Mexico, O gentlest lady--
+
+ Car.                                   Nay--
+
+ Est.     Say yea, and our expectant land will feel
+          The thrill of that affirmative across
+          The glad Atlantic! Yea--and France, whose name
+          Is in our hearts as God's, will bless thy tongue!
+          Say yea, and noble England, watchful Spain,
+          Who with great France began the holy work
+          Of blessed liberation will applaud
+          With happy echoes to the guardian skies!
+          Say yea, and the white spirit of the Church
+          Will take 'neath her soft wings our blood-drenched land,
+          That waits but for that word to hail thy lord
+          Regenerator, king!
+
+ Car.                         My lords, my lords,
+          We are but human! Mayhap we will not keep
+          The love that we have won!
+
+ Senor Hur.                           Fear not, O princess!
+          Behind your throne, with unretreating sword,
+          Will stand the first great power of all the world!
+          Thus speak I for the emperor of France!
+
+ Princess Metternich. (Advancing)
+          I for the empress! Eugenie bade me speak
+          Her heart out here, and hail thee sister empress!
+          To ask when your young empire blooms above
+          The lily of old France, and lures the East
+          To pour her golden heart into your port,
+          And ocean blossoms with your argosies,
+          You'll still remember that she loved you when
+          You were but princess and no farther ruled
+          Then stretch the gardens of small Miramar!
+
+ Car.     O generous Eugenie! But the fear--
+
+ Abbot of Lacroma.
+          To speak of fear in this is to doubt God!
+          He does not bless in vain a noble prince
+          With such rare qualities as crown the mind
+          Of Maximilian! 'Tis for some purpose rare
+          He rounds such excellence with highest birth
+          And puts a sword of power in his hand!
+          From over seas unto your very feet
+          A nation comes to choose from all the world
+          One made by Heaven to be its sovereign lord,
+          Cool hearts of passion in his amity,
+          Make bitter eyes forget their ancient hate,
+          And proudest knees bow with old enemies
+          In worship of his star beneficent!
+          There pale and crushed Peace
+          Shall take the color of the living rose,
+          Hearing the voice of his protecting love
+          That comes to lift her beauty from the dust
+          And on that ground volcanic nobly build
+          Her temple indestructible!
+          There shall his kingly mind find outward means
+          To write sublimity upon the world,
+          And like old Egypt speak in pyramids
+          To nations unbegot in dream of Time!
+          And can you shock the hour with hesitation?
+          Ask all the waiting world,--ay, even God,
+          To pause and count the heart-beats of a woman?
+
+ Car.     (Devoutly, with uplifted hands and eyes)
+          Forgive me, Heaven, that I doubted thee!
+
+          (Takes Maximilian's hands, turns with great dignity to the
+          deputies, and speaks solemnly)
+
+          Senors, we'll wear the crown of Mexico.
+
+          (Silence. The abbot of Lacroma advances; Carlotta and
+          Maximilian drop to their knees as he extends his arms
+          above them in blessing)
+
+
+Scene II: A camp in the mountains of Mexico. Night. Aseffa
+preparing food by a fire. She goes aside, listens, and returns.
+
+ Asef.    O Mexico, thou traitress unto love,
+          Wilt trample every heart that's true to thee?
+
+          (Listens. Enter Miguel and Lerdo, very ragged and gaunt)
+          Miguel! Lerdo! Rafael not come? Where did you leave him?
+
+ Lerdo.   Nowhere, Senora.
+
+ Asef.                      Oh!
+
+ Mig.     Don't flutter, little bird. We mean that he left us. He
+          set off as fresh as the morning to make the circuit of
+          another mountain while we could barely creep up to camp.
+
+ Asef.    You are hungry! I'll give you Rafael's supper!
+
+ Ler.     Hungry? No! I've had two biscuits since yesterday, and
+          sixty miles isn't far to go on that.
+
+ Mig.     And as much good air and water as a soldier need want!
+
+ Asef.    Here! Take it. 'Tis good. Indeed it is!
+
+ Mig.     Smoking meat! Ha! Who brought it? Has the Holy Virgin been
+          in camp?
+
+ Asef.    No, but I've been down to the valley.
+
+ Ler.     You?
+
+ Asef.    Yes,--and I've a little gold left, too!
+
+          (Showing purse)
+
+ Mig.     You paid five pesos for that dish!
+
+ Asef.    A good guesser would double the price.
+
+ Mig.     And for Rafael's supper! No, I can go two more days yet.
+          (Puts food aside)
+
+ Asef.    But you shall not. Come, eat! I'll feed you then, and you
+          don't want Juarez' soldiers to be turned into babies, do
+          you?
+
+ Mig.     I'll yield! In fact, there's an orator within that speaks
+          with a most convincing pinch. (They eat)
+
+ Asef.    (Watching) Poor fellows! They'll not leave him a mouthful!
+
+ Ler.     Where is the general?
+
+ Asef.    (Pointing up the hill) Asleep. Have you news?
+
+ Ler.     None to bring good dreams. Let him sleep.
+
+ Mig.     Lord, a meal a day like this and I could drive the whole
+          French army into the sea! (Rising) Now if these rags could
+          be turned back to their first fortunes, I'd be Don Miguel
+          de Tejada again! You wouldn't think that these tags and
+          tatters had waltzed with the president's niece at the
+          capital, would you now?
+
+ Asef.    You must let me mend your clothes as I do Rafael's.
+
+ Mig.     Faith, Senora, you would have to begin too many months
+          back. No, I'll hang out my banners as a knight of liberty
+          should, and be Don Miguel de Tejada still. Asleep, my
+          Lerdo? A good example, too. (Lies down) Good-night, Senora
+          the Blessed!
+
+ Asef.    Good-night, Don Miguel de Tejada! (The soldiers sleep. She
+          waits and listens. Runs aside and looks down the valley)
+
+ Asef.    Rafael! (Steps approach. Enter Rafael)
+
+ Raf.     (Embracing her) Here's Heaven for the weary!
+
+ Asef.    So tired? And I have nothing for you! (Looks toward
+          soldiers) They were so hungry.
+
+ Raf.     They're welcome to it. (Kissing her) Here is my
+          banquet,--my feast of beauty and my wine of love!
+
+          (Staggers to a rock and sits feebly)
+
+ Asef.    Oh! You've been so far!--too far!
+
+ Raf.     We rode all day, but made no terms for food. The people
+          are afraid. Whoever gives us bread forfeits his life and
+          home.
+
+ Asef.    I bought some meat of a poor woman to-day. She needed the
+          money.
+
+ Raf.     And if the Imperials find her out they'll murder her and
+          set her hut in flames!
+
+ Asef.    Oh! What shall we do?
+
+ Raf.     We are an army. We'll do as armies do. Take food where we
+          can find it.
+
+ Asef.    O, Rafael!
+
+ Raf.     Yes, love, we'll play the robber to fill the mouth of
+          Liberty,--she's fed too long on thistles.
+
+ Asef.    She's a stern mistress, Rafael.
+
+ Raf.                                     But sweeter, love,
+          Her harshest frown that summer smiles of kings!
+          O, I reproach her not, even when I see
+          My dearest friends lie dying in her name!
+          A bed of stones is soft enough for me
+          If she but rock to sleep,--a crust to-day,
+          To-morrow none, and at her board I'm fed.
+          But when I look on you, my traitor blood
+          Flies from her service. Oh, to see these hands
+          That plucked no beauty ruder than the rose,
+          So meanly laboring in the basest needs!
+          Your gentle body resting on cold earth,
+          Glad of a blanket 'tween you and the sod,
+          While in your bed the foreign robber sleeps!
+          This shakes my loyalty till I could hate
+          The fair, unspotted cause my sword is drawn in!
+
+ Asef.    Stop, Rafael! O thank God these hands have known
+          That blessed of all fortunes,--to toil for love!
+          These eyes that sought for but a face more fair,
+          A flower more sweet, have found the stars that rise
+          Where Truth and Courage wander in the night!
+          In southern vales maybe we'll hear again
+          The morning birds sing at our bowered windows,
+          But we will not forget the nobler song
+          Now borne by winds about these mountain peaks,--
+          The song of man made free!
+
+ Raf.                                 We'll not forget.
+          But will that sweet day come? Tell me, Aseffa,
+          You who are half a sibyl,--shall we go down
+          That valley to our home?
+
+ Asef.                              'Tis not to gain
+          Our father's halls, and sit 'neath fig and vine,
+          We hide and starve and stagger in these hills,
+          But to keep noble the last hour of life,
+          That Death who gathers it may read thereon
+          The seal immortal of approving God.
+
+ Raf.     Yes--dear Aseffa--but--(Faints)
+
+ Asef.                            Rafael! Rafael!
+          Ah dying! O my prating virtue's gone!
+          I care for naught but that my love shall live!
+          O, Liberty, wilt spare me this one life?
+          ... Ho! Miguel! Up!
+
+ Mig.                         Hey! What! Senora!... Ah!
+
+ Lerdo.   What's here?
+
+ Asef.                  There's wine in the general's tent! Rafael!
+          My love, my love, look up!... O Mexico,
+          With all thy veins of gold thou art not worth
+          One dear drop of his blood!
+
+          (Enter General Trevino)
+
+ Trev.                                What's this new grief?
+          Not Rafael!... He faints. 'Tis hunger ... hunger.
+          Miguel! Lerdo! Bear him to my tent.
+          Give him what food you find there. First the wine!
+
+          (Soldiers go out with Rafael. Aseffa follows. As she
+          passes the general she drops to her knees and kisses his
+          hands)
+
+ Trev.    (Alone) Starvation now or plunder. We'll quarter where
+          We can.... A horseman! If 'tis Ignacio
+          We shall have news.
+
+          (Enter Ignacio, from riding)
+
+ Ig.                          Who's here?
+
+ Trev.                                    Ignacio?
+
+ Ig.      (Saluting) Your pardon, sir!
+
+ Trev.                                  You're from the capital?
+
+ Ig.      Three days ago I left the city. I've slept
+          On horseback since.
+
+ Trev.                        Your news!
+
+ Ig.                                      We fight an empire.
+          The Austrian is crowned.
+
+ Trev.                              Impossible!
+          Where are our people? Salas? and LeVal?
+
+ Ig.      They shouted at his welcome. At Vera Cruz
+          Began the unholy pageantry, that showed
+          As Christ had come again and all men knew him!
+          Each province drained its beauty by the way;
+          The mules that drew him caught the vanity
+          And picked their steps on flowers.
+
+ Trev.                                        Tell me no more.
+          O Gratitude, thou hast no home on earth!
+          Twelve months did Juarez rule, and in twelve months
+          Did what no man can do but God is with him!
+          He healed contention's wounds, set up new schools,
+          Released the land from priestcraft's ancient grip,
+          Rebuilt our credit, destroyed by Miramon,
+          The robber president, who bonded the land
+          To France, then set the sword of Europe 'gainst us
+          Because we could not pay the unjust debt
+          From treasuries that his own hands had emptied.
+          O, 'twas a crime too big for Heaven's eye,
+          And so God let it pass! France could not know--
+          But our own people knew--how Juarez toiled
+          To shape the nation to his noble thought!
+
+ Ig.      Yes--yes--they knew!
+
+ Trev.                          We'll break our swords, my boy.
+          We have no country.
+
+ Ig.                          Is my uncle yet
+          In Texas?
+
+ Trev.              Ay, and we will go to him.
+          ... Ungrateful ground that casts all goodness from it,
+          And sucks a gilded poison!
+
+          (Enter Rafael, Aseffa, Miguel, Lerdo, and others of the
+          camp)
+
+ Raf.     (To Trevino)                Sir, you will miss
+          Your breakfast, but I pledge my sword you'll have
+          To-morrow's supper!... Ignacio!
+
+ Ig.                                      You here,
+          My Rafael! (They embrace) Aseffa too!
+
+ Asef.                                          Dear friend!
+          (They greet affectionately)
+
+ Raf.     And Maximilian is crowned?
+
+ Ig.                                  Yes ... crowned.
+
+ Raf.     You saw him?
+
+ Ig.                    In the cathedral, with the empress.
+
+ Asef.    The empress?
+
+ Raf.                   What looks he like? This Austrian duke
+          That with a stolen crown mocks majesty!
+
+ Ig.      He looks like majesty, and yet is graced
+          With Nature's gentlest stamp; his countenance
+          Takes beauty from his smile; his smile, one thinks,
+          Takes sweetness from a heart that has its own
+          Nobility from heaven.
+
+ Trev.                          An enemy
+          Well praised!
+
+ Asef.                  The empress? She bewitched you too?
+
+          (Ignacio is silent)
+
+          Come, sir! The truth of her!
+
+ Ig.                                    The truth? Go ask
+          The angels. They've tongues for such sweet purpose.
+
+ Trev.                                                        What!
+          Ignacio turned squire o' the empire?
+
+ Ig.                                            No.
+          But I can read a holy woman's face,
+          Though she by some strange counterfeit of truth
+          Would put an empress' foot upon our necks.
+
+ Asef.    What is she like?
+
+ Ig.                        Like nothing but herself.
+          She is not gentle, for gentleness is but
+          Rude servant to that quality in her;
+          Gracious she's not, for grace herself doth serve
+          A poor handmaiden to her excellence;
+          Nor beautiful, for Beauty asks her name
+          To wear but that and know her own no more.
+
+          (In the silence that follows a rider rushes up and dismounts)
+
+ Messenger.
+          Where is the general, Trevino?
+
+ Trev.                                    Here.
+
+ Mess.    Juarez approaches. (Saluting)
+
+ Trev.                        Juarez! Call up the camp!
+          Light all the beacons! Juarez! Build up the fires!
+
+ Shouts.  Juarez! Juarez! Hurrah! El presidente!
+
+ Trev.    We'll let him know the hearts he left i' the hills
+          Still beat with loyal blood!
+
+ Shouts.                                Juarez! Juarez!
+          (Enter Juarez. Silence)
+
+ Jua.     Trevino!
+
+ Trev.              Your Excellency! (They embrace)
+                                      You've heard?
+
+ Jua.                                               I know.
+          Now monarchy has spread her gilded sails,
+          And from the East comes like another sun
+          To blind our eyes with wonder of a crown
+          While shackling us by hand and foot to earth.
+          But from these mountains will arise a queen,
+          The figure grey of ancient Liberty,
+          Mourning and wronged, but with the unpaling star
+          Of God's own favor set upon her brow:
+          These two shall meet--and that mock sun go down!
+
+ Trev.    You still have hope when Mexico deserts us?
+
+ Jua.     Dost read your country in the smile she shows
+          Her conqueror? She has a heart beneath!
+          Ay, sir, did she not prove it at Puebla?
+          Where dead fell on the dead with gun in hand
+          Still pointed to the French! Where, hope once lost,
+          And the enemy pouring through the shattered gates,
+          Our men blew up their city and themselves
+          To keep their souls free from Napoleon!
+          These men have brothers left, and sons,
+          And _they are Mexico_!
+
+ Soldiers.                        El presidente!
+          Liberty and Juarez!
+
+ A soldier. (Waving his sword) We'll be revenged,
+          Or spill more blood than hell can drink!
+
+ Soldiers.
+          Down with the empire! Death to Maximilian!
+
+ Jua.     No, not revenge,--but justice. That's enough.
+          We've but to wait--and strike. Yon mists now spread
+          Their fair illusion o'er the eternal mountains
+          'Till 't seems they are the world, and the great hills
+          Are naught. But by to-morrow's noon-sun see
+          Their fortunes faded as a dream of night,
+          While the rock peak looks up as if to say
+          From the foundation of the world I am!
+          So will this glamour o'er our godly cause
+          Pass as a breath, while all the world shall read
+          Our right and title to unbonded life
+          In our free bosoms founded and God-set!
+
+ A soldier.
+          We'll die for freedom!
+
+ Jua.                             Die? That's the one thing
+          We can not do. We may lie down in graves,
+          But from our living dust will spring new challenge
+          To make in noble minds continual war
+          Until our race be righted!
+
+ Trev.                                Many fly
+          From our misfortunes. Amaldo and LeVal--
+
+ Jua.     Call 't not misfortune that teaches us our friends.
+          Now are we sifted and the chaff is known!
+          ... LeVal! ... But Diaz is true?
+
+ Trev.                                      On yonder mountain
+          His fires make answer for him.
+
+ Jua.     (Looking into distance)         Forgive me, comrade!
+          I know you true, and sooner will yon moon
+          Make her last change and fall than you change once
+          From the full circle of a complete man....
+          (Turns and sees Ignacio)
+          My nephew here?
+
+ Ig.                      Just from the capital.
+
+ Jua.     Where you must back again. Rafael, too!
+          Both my young soldiers! My right arm and my left,--
+          Though which is which I know not. Ignacio,
+          You saw the Austrian? No matter. He's but
+          The drift-piece of a rotten monarchy
+          That thinks to graft upon the living tree
+          Of our new-sprung republic! We'll shake him off
+          As a June oak a spray of winter wreck,
+          Nor ever know he clung upon our boughs!
+
+ Ig.      The church is powerful yet, and seeks to join
+          Her cause with his.
+
+ Jua.                         The church? Say not the church,
+          But mockers in Christ's name, who steal the land
+          And drain its fruitage into Satan's purse,
+          Keeping the poor a race of hopeless slaves
+          Who worship their own shackles! O, Ignorance,
+          Thou art the great slave-master! Thy very chains
+          Are vital and beget themselves; and he
+          Who strikes them seems the monster of the earth
+          To the poor serf who thinks it is himself
+          That bleeds! The church be with our foe, with us
+          Be God, we'll ask no more. Hear me, my men!
+          The great republic of the North's our friend.
+          When her own war is done you'll hear her speak
+          To France in cannon tones that will make quake
+          Napoleon on his throne! That great mock-god.
+          Who seeks to free all men that he may fit
+          Their necks to his own yoke! (With growing intensity)
+                                        That adder who
+          Would coil about the world! That serpent scruffed
+          With white deceit and low ambition's slime,
+          That crept into the garden of my dream
+          And cankered bud and root, nursed by my toil,
+          Fed with my dearest blood! Ay, he will quake,
+          And cry for mercy to a stony Heaven
+          Whose pity drops long since were drained upon
+          The woe that he hath made! Ay, he--
+
+ Trev.    (Touching him)                      But now,
+          My friend?
+
+ Jua.     (Composed) You're right. No more of that. Nephew!
+
+ Ig.      Here, sir!
+
+ Jua.                 Your place will be the capital.
+          We must have eyes there, and a heart to serve us.
+          This hour set out. Here are instructions. (Gives papers)
+
+ Trev.                                              Sir,
+          He's had no rest.
+
+ Jua.                       True ... true....
+
+ Ig.                                          And need none when
+          Juarez commands.
+
+ Jua.     (Taking his hand) Thou'rt still my son. My house
+          Will not fall down when I no longer prop it.
+
+ Raf.     May I not beg this office, sir?
+
+ Trev.                                    Send him!
+          His heart is in the hills, and he'll come back.
+          Ignacio's yet unanchored. Trust him not
+          To high tides of a court.
+
+ Jua.                               I trust them both.
+          But my own blood I know. (To Ig.) Kneel for the oath.
+
+          (Ignacio kneels. Murmurs around, then silence. Juarez
+          takes a crucifix from his bosom and holds it over Ignacio)
+
+ Jua.     By this true image of the bleeding Christ,
+          May you be damned to everlasting fire,
+          Nor prayers of saints lift up your soul from hell,
+          If you prove false in what you undertake
+          This night for Mexico!
+
+ Ig.                              By Christ's own blood.
+          I swear, and may that blood be powerless
+          To save me from the damned if I prove false!
+
+ Jua.                             The stars that hold
+          The witness angels of the Lord have heard
+          Thy oath.
+
+ Ig.      (Rising and looking up)
+                    Let them record it.
+
+ Asef.    (Fearfully)                   Ah!
+
+ Trev.    (Holding out a brand)             The brand!
+
+ Jua.     Not that!
+
+ Ig.      (Baring his arm) I choose it!
+
+          (Trevino quickly brands his arm with a cross. Juarez, too
+          late, dashes the brand from his hand)
+
+ Ig.      (Throwing up his arm)         Sealed to the cause!
+
+          (Hurries to go)
+
+ Jua.     My boy! (Ignacio returns for Juarez' embrace)
+
+ Ig.      (Going) Liberty and Juarez!
+
+ Soldiers.                            Juarez!
+          Liberty and Juarez!
+
+          (All but Juarez follow Ignatius out, cheering)
+
+                              Hurrah! hurrah!
+
+          (Juarez draws his grey mantle about him and stands silent.
+          The fires die down. The moon clouds. He looks up invoking)
+
+ Jua.     Spirit of Montezuma, be thou here
+          And on thy son drop wisdom out of Heaven,
+          That these thy children he may lead to peace,
+          And this thy country give again to him
+          Who set his iron in the earth and said
+          "Man, make thy weapon; there shall be no slaves!"
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+Scene I: Palace of Chapultapec. Hall adjoining ball room. Gaily
+dressed women, and men in glittering official costumes passing
+doors. Marquez and Mejia talking.
+
+ Mar.     You've caught Trevino!
+
+ Mejia.                           Rafael Mendorez too.
+
+ Mar.     Still better. You'll have them shot at once?
+
+ Mejia.   They've too many friends. I must have the emperor's warrant.
+
+ Mar.     He will sign the decree to-night.
+
+ Mejia.   The Lord be thanked! I'm tired of risking life and men
+          taking prisoners that his majesty may have the pleasure of
+          pardoning them.
+
+ Mar.     If he signs the decree he will be sure to reserve the
+          right to pardon. You must try my method.
+
+ Mejia.   And that?
+
+ Mar.     Shoot on the spot, and report no captures.
+
+          (Enter from the ball room Maximilian, Marshal Bazaine,
+          General Miramon, and Count Charles)
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty will sign the law to-night?
+
+ Max.     These men wear the brave name of soldiers; fight
+          Beneath a flag, and claim the rights of war.
+
+ Baz.     They borrow war's fair name to kill and plunder!
+
+ Max.     It was my dream when I took up this crown
+          To claim each subject of the land my own.
+
+ Mir.     And so you may, your majesty. 'Tis true.
+          These men are subjects to no law or nation;
+          They are not Mexico's; they are not God's;
+          But from the heavenly and the human pale
+          They have outbarred themselves. Our honest land
+          Has cast them out as venom to her health!
+          Nurse not this canker in your realm, my lord!
+
+ Max.     I do not know ... but here's my head and heart,
+
+          (Touching Prince Salm-Salm and Count Charles)
+
+          And they may answer. Prince, what do you say?
+
+ Prince Salm.
+          As friend and soldier to your majesty,
+          I must advise the passage of the law.
+
+ Max.     You, Charles?
+
+ Char.                  My lord, if as you say, these men
+          Fight 'neath a flag, and for supposed rights,
+          You violate the law of noble nations
+          In sentencing to death the prisoners
+          Of recognized war.
+
+ Baz.     (Sneering)          Sir, recognized?
+
+ Char.    Does not the United States still call Juarez
+          The president of Mexico?
+
+ Baz.                               Why, count,
+          You'd best consult those books of yours again!
+          Juarez has fled and given up his cause.
+          These men are robbers! Your majesty will sign?
+
+ Max.     Forgive me, friends, if I again say no.
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty, 'tis we should ask your pardon
+          For having failed to lustre as we should
+          This seeming-dark decree,--so wise, so just,
+          And as undoubtedly your duteous act
+          As though some stern necessity of the stars
+          Enjoined it.
+
+ Max.     (Uneasily)    Press it not now. The people wait.
+
+          (All but Marquez go into ballroom)
+
+ Mar.     Some fools have sat on crowns but not for long.
+          He'll sign. The Liberals must be dispatched
+          Fast as we capture them, for we've short time.
+          The United States will soon be free again
+          To turn to us, and what we wish to do
+          Must be well done ere that. Dispatch! Dispatch!
+          Use Maximilian and the French to crush
+          The Liberals, then with the church unite
+          To pull down Maximilian and set up--
+          Marquez!... The Empress--and Ignacio!
+          One I suspect,--a half-breed full of pride!
+          Who'd have the court forget his Indian mother
+          And bear in mind his father was a noble!
+
+                                                    (Goes aside.
+          Enter Carlotta and Ignacio, followed by Prince and
+          Princess Zichy, Prince and Princess Salm-Salm, Princess
+          Josefa de Varela, Colonel Lopez, making merry with a
+          fortune teller. The Empress steps apart with Ignacio)
+
+ Car.     Ignacio! I've met strange looks to-night!
+
+ Ig.      But not unkind ones, noble madam?
+
+ Car.                                       O, such
+          As can not be distinguished by a word,
+          Cold, warm, or dark or fair, bitter or kind!
+          Ah, looks that will not advertise the heart,
+          And yet betray too much!
+
+ Ig.                                Your majesty--
+
+ Car.     A little coldness that might melt to love,
+          A little pity that might soon be hate,
+          A fair 'God with you' shaping to a curse--
+
+ Ig.      What eye can harbor evil meeting yours
+          Where lies a grace that turns all ill to virtue?
+
+ Car.     Would all were true as you, Ignacio!
+
+          (Looks to ballroom and shudders)
+
+          Those eyes! Would I looked not so deep in eyes!
+          ... You love my lord?
+
+ Ig.                            I do, your majesty.
+
+ Car.     Above all other men? (He is silent) Nay, do not answer!
+          'Twas wrong to ask, for you have kinsmen maybe,
+          Brother, or uncle, some one dear in blood
+          Whom Heaven bids you cherish. But you will guard
+          Your Emperor! You'll watch with me for foes?
+          For foes? He has none! How the thought
+          Blasphemes his excellence! But 'tis a world
+          Where whitest merit draws the darkest souls
+          To prey upon it, while mere indifferent good
+          Escapes!... Ignacio, is it true, Juarez
+          Is not in Mexico?
+
+ Ig.                        O, madam!
+
+ Car.                                 Ah!
+          Is 't true the Liberals are disbanded?
+
+ Ig.                                              True?
+
+ Car.     You do not answer, sir!
+
+ Ig.                              It is not true.
+
+ Car.     You know it! You? And they still hope?
+
+ Ig.                                              They do.
+
+ Car.     Then we are playing with an enemy!
+          How do you know?... You traitor, too!... O Heaven!
+          'Tis time now to be up or treachery
+          Will take us all asleep! (Goes from him)
+
+ Ig.      (Following her)           O madam! madam!
+          My heart is all your own!
+
+ Car.     (Turning to him)          Forgive me, friend,
+          And I will wrong no more these honest eyes.
+          But there is danger here, and we must strike!
+          We hold a nation's future in our hands,
+          And now defence is virtue, patience crime!
+
+ Ig.      Your majesty--
+
+ Car.     (Not heeding) Shall we stand here and smile
+          Till rebel blows have shattered life and throne?
+          ... Dupin shall drive these desperate people back--
+          This law be signed--
+
+ Ig.      (With horror)         Dear Christ!
+
+ Car.                                         What do you mean?
+
+ Ig.      Will Maximilian pass a law of death,
+          Condemning patriots to a robber's grave?
+          O, Empress, sue upon your knees that he
+          Do not this thing, for every act of his
+          Not marked with justice to his enemies
+          Will rob him of the pity they would show
+          When victory is theirs! He writes his doom
+          As certainly as he doth set his name
+          To that black law, and gives Dupin his will
+          Among our helpless people!
+
+ Princess Zichy. (From group about the gipsy, as all laugh)
+                                      Your majesty,
+          You heard?
+
+ Car.                 I heard. (To Ignacio, much disturbed)
+                                Go join them! Go! (Ignacio joins group)
+                                                  He's true!
+          My lord in danger!
+
+ Princess de Varela.          Now mother, my hand next!
+
+          (Gipsy scans her hand)
+
+ Car.     'Rob him of pity!' 'When victory is theirs!'
+          I know the pity given to the fallen
+          In this blood-drunken land! There's but one way...
+          We must not fall!... 'Tis war, then,--war! Not for
+          An empire, no,--but Maximilian's life!
+          And we must use the weapons in our hands!
+
+ Gip.     (Reading)
+
+                  Days of brightness, days of smiles,
+                  Read I here or Fate beguiles!
+
+ Princess S.
+          O these fortunes are like lines from a fairy book!
+          Surely we are not all going to be happy!
+
+ Gip.     I'll read for you, madam.
+
+ Princess S.
+          But let not your change of song begin with me,
+          dark mother!
+
+ Gip.     (Reading)
+
+                  Days of darkness, days of moan!
+                  A friend shall sigh, a friend shall fall,
+                  And wring thy bosom more than all
+                  The sorrow that thou yet hast known!
+
+ Princess S.
+          O think better of it, mother!
+
+ Gip.     Your sweet eyes deserve a better portion than tears, and
+          I read too,
+
+                  But ere thy last hour be nigh
+                  Sorrow from thy breast shall fly!
+
+ Princess S.
+          A friend, you say? I thank you, 'twas not my husband!
+
+ Gip.             And yet a husband he,
+                  And many tears thou'lt see!
+
+ Car.     (Aside) A friend--a husband--and a fall!
+
+ Gip.     Shall I read for her majesty?
+
+ Car.     No! no!
+
+ Lopez.   She has peeped into Fate's urn, madam, I assure you!
+
+ Car.     Nay, I'm content. What I choose for myself I will abide,
+          and what I choose not is the gift of God and I'll abide
+          that too!
+
+ Prince Zichy.
+          I congratulate you! Majesty is not always able to
+          show such noble indifference to the future, and lesser
+          mortals--never!
+
+ Gip.     Please the stars, may I read for you, sir?
+
+ Prince Zichy.
+          I give you a proxy,--Senor Ignacio. If the fortune
+          be fair, I take it, if not, I leave it with him.
+
+ Ladies.  O, hear Ignacio's fortune! (They crowd about him and
+          the gypsy)
+
+ Car.     (To Lopez) A favor, sir! Will you take a message to his
+          majesty?
+
+ Lopez.   I am twice blest--to bear your message--and bear it to the
+          emperor. (They talk apart)
+
+ Gip.     Here's a secret matter, sir. Shall I speak it out?
+
+ Ig.      O spare me! Come aside!
+
+ Ladies.  Nay, nay, Ignacio! You heard our fortunes!
+
+ Ig.      But yours were fair and innocent, and mine is dark and
+          guilty--maybe with crime!
+
+ Ladies.  Oh! A crime!
+
+ Ig.      Come, witch! (They go aside, near where Marquez is
+          stationed unseen) Aseffa!
+
+ Asef.    Rafael is prisoner at Savarro! Trevino is taken, too!
+
+ Ig.      O Heaven! (To ladies) Stay back! 'Tis crime indeed!
+
+ Ladies.  Villain!
+
+ Asef.    Help me to Maximilian! O, I must see him! You called him
+          gentle! When I tell him what Rafael is--the fairest soul
+          man ever called a foe--
+
+ Ig.      Softly, Aseffa! You can not see the emperor to-night.
+
+ Asef.    I must! To-morrow 't will be too late! He dies at sunrise!
+
+ Ig.      Rafael! My friend! my brother!--
+
+ Asef.    Quiet! quiet! Smile, Ignacio! Ha! ha! I'll pray it be not
+          true, sir!
+
+ Ig.      But you can see Count Charles. He's Maximilian's very
+          heart, and once you win him the Emperor is won. Go in! Go
+          in! I'll bring you to the count! Be light of heart! Our
+          Rafael is safe!
+
+ Asef.    Ignacio, the Empress is all you said.
+          Prayers on their way to Heaven meeting her
+          Would think their journey ended. Can you be true?
+
+ Ig.      (Touching his arm)
+          I bear the seal.
+
+ Asef.                      God help thee!
+
+ Ig.                                        Go!
+                                    (To ladies) 'Tis done!
+          I know my sins!
+
+ Princess de V.           But what a smiling sinner!
+
+ Princess Salm.
+          A cloud is hovering. Come, sir! I shall know it!
+
+          (Takes his arm. Mexican national dance begins. All go into
+          ballroom, the Empress with Lopez)
+
+ Mar.     Ignacio a Liberal! And branded!
+          He's finished! But I'll pick my hour for it!
+          Mendorez safe! Ay, if he's bullet-proof!
+
+          (Re-enter Carlotta with Archbishop Labastida)
+
+ Lab.     I thank your Highness for this gracious moment!
+          Most holy Empress--
+
+ Car.                         Not holy, sir, and yet
+          I hope with touch of God's anointment on me.
+
+ Lab.     Did it but rest with you His love would soon
+          Like cloud of rose veil Mexico in beauty.
+
+ Car.     But rest with me?
+
+ Lab.                       Ay, noble lady, you.
+          I bear a letter from his Holiness,
+          In which he says his Empress daughter's zeal
+          Is jewelled in his heart,--but urges me
+          To speak to Maximilian of his strange
+          Reluctance to fulfill his promise.
+
+ Car.                                         Promise?
+
+ Lab.     To give the Church the olden glory that
+          She shone with here! Restore her rights--
+
+ Car.                                               'Tis true
+          He promised that, and he has kept his word
+          As an account with God. He is convinced
+          The rights claimed by the Church are stolen rights
+          She wrung from ignorance for her earthly glory,
+          And he's resolved to maintain Juarez' law
+          So far as it accords with justice.
+
+ Lab.                                         Madness!
+          Call back Juarez to power! Yield the throne
+          To the republican! For 't will so end
+          If Maximilian scorns us and our help!
+
+ Car.     He does not scorn you, sir, but seeks to find
+          Where the division comes 'tween you and Christ
+          And set himself upon the side of Heaven.
+
+ Lab.     You will divorce the favor of the pope,
+          Without whose help you may not hope to stand.
+          Plead with your lord again to probe our claim,
+          And find therein some wise and prudent reason
+          To give us aid,--and thereby keep his crown.
+
+ Car.     Yes, I will speak; but I shall not forget,
+          Whate'er I say, he is an Emperor! (Exit)
+
+ Mar.     (Coming forward) A pair of fools are jiggling with a crown.
+
+ Lab.     You heard, Marquez?
+
+ Mar.                         And knew before I heard.
+
+ Lab.     And you are patient?
+
+ Mar.                           Maximilian
+          Means France, and France we must keep ours,--at least
+          Till we have finished with the Liberals,--
+
+ Lab.     And then?
+
+ Mar.               We need not go so far to make
+          A wiser choice.
+
+ Lab.     (Looking at him meaningly)
+                          Not far indeed!
+
+ Mar.                                     I thank you.
+          But that's hereafter. Come with me, your grace.
+          I'd speak of something more immediate.
+
+          (Exeunt left)
+
+          (Enter from ballroom General Miramon, Marshal Bazaine and
+          Colonel Dupin, the last a large, vain, blustering man,
+          gorgeously and expensively arrayed from head to foot. A
+          sombrero wonderfully trimmed with gold and silver is
+          carried in his hand and used in sweeping salutations)
+
+ Dup.     At last I am called to court! I thought his majesty would
+          soon or late have need of my experience in throat-cutting.
+
+ Mir.     But, my dear Dupin, it is not in your capacity of
+          throat-cutter that we introduce you. These towns that have
+          given aid to the Liberals must be punished without the
+          Emperor's knowledge. You will make an example of them?
+
+ Dup.     Will I? Hear him, Marshal! Will I?
+
+ Mir.     But not a word to the Emperor!
+
+ Dup.     Softish, eh?
+
+ Mir.     His spongy heart is filled with water of compassion. Touch
+          it anywhere it pours!
+
+ Baz.     I'm not going to throw away the lives of any more
+          Frenchmen just to give him a chance to play at clemency!
+          An emperor should be a sort of vitalized stone, capable
+          of action but incapable of impression.
+
+ Dup.     Then I'm the man for emperor! I've always suspected my
+          qualifications for the part. By the lord, I've made women
+          who were hungry enough to eat their own children watch my
+          soldiers throw bread into the sea! And when I was with the
+          French and English in old Chinee--well, they've called me
+          the 'Tigre' since then. You've heard about that! (Struts
+          and sings)
+
+                  I'm the tigre of the East,
+                  Got my claws in old Pekin
+                  When the yellow kids we fleeced
+                  And held up the mandarin!
+
+                  O we caught him by the queue,
+                    As he from our captains flew,
+                  That quaking little, shaking little mandarin.
+                    And we dragged him out to view
+                    By that most convenient queue,
+                  When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!
+
+          My friends, if you will excuse me, there are several
+          dozens of ladies in the ball room waiting for a dance with
+          the costume par excellence of the evening. I am not always
+          sure of a welcome for my face, but my costume is never in
+          doubt. Ah, sweet woman! you can please me twice. I can
+          dance with you--and I can kill you! When the Emperor asks
+          for me I shall not decline an introduction,--though he was
+          not born an emperor and I was born Dupin! (Exit)
+
+ Baz.     Is he as villainous as his conversation?
+
+ Mir.     His talk is but the mildest prologue to his deeds.
+
+ Baz.     Then he's the man for us. We shall never drive back the
+          Liberals but by methods of unmitigated severity.
+
+ Mir.     There is no barbarity too great for the intimidation of
+          these towns.
+
+ Baz.     The only absolutely safe plan is to raze them from the
+          earth.
+
+ Mir.     Trust Dupin! (They go into ballroom. Enter, right, Count
+          Charles and Aseffa. Her disguise is thrown back revealing
+          her beauty)
+
+ Asef.    You help me though a Liberal and your foe!
+
+ Char.    A foe! Dear lady, when you besought my aid
+          Methought it was divinity that spoke,
+          So sacred sweet seemed the request. I'll save
+          Your brother.
+
+ Asef.                  Ah, dearer than a brother, sir.
+          It is my husband!
+
+ Char.                      Husband!
+
+ Asef.                                Yes, my lord.
+          And dearer than--You have a wife?
+
+ Char.                                      No, lady.
+
+ Asef.    O, then you can not know! But you have loved?
+
+ Char.    I love.
+
+ Asef.            A lover--not a husband. Ah!
+          Add to thy love a thousand dearer loves
+          And take their sum a thousand times a thousand,
+          'T will be the smallest part divisible
+          Of my dear love for Rafael! You'll save him?
+
+ Char.    Yes--I will save him. Do you trust me?
+
+ Asef.                                            Trust you?
+          As I would Heaven! (Kisses his hands and goes out, right)
+
+ Char.                        Gone! Aseffa! Gone?
+          No, never gone! Her kisses here! O lips
+          That swept like drifting roses o'er my hands--
+          Both hands,--sweet equity! Still are they warm
+          As they were dipped in summer, though her touch
+          Was maiden light nor robbed him of a jot
+          Who should have all. Her husband--'twas a word
+          She used to slay me with!... Even in sorrow
+          She is more fair than any other fair
+          Met on a holiday. But when she smiled
+          She seemed like Fortune giving away a world.
+          So gracious was her splendor. Thou art revenged,
+          O little demon god so long my scorn!
+          Would I had given my heart by piecemeal out
+          Since I was ten than to have lost it so,
+          For going all at once it takes my life
+          And I must lose my life or follow it.
+          Ah, love should come like waves unto a shore,
+          Soft creeping up and back and up again.
+          Till taught to stand receptive we are firm
+          When the last, highest wave envelops us.
+          ... May God restore me!... O her beauty burns
+          As she were limned by lightning on the night!
+          Her eyes are torches that Eternity
+          Lends life to read her dreams! Her cheek
+          Is June within a bud! Her veins have caught
+          The falling sun that in them strives to rise
+          To a new dawn!... And I must save him--save him!
+          This unknown man that holds the flaming sword
+          Above my paradise!... If this decree
+          Is signed she will be widowed ... (Stops in horror)
+                                            I am mad!...
+          ... She will be free ... Away, sweet hell, whose face
+          Is masked like heaven!... Let solid earth be air,
+          The air be lead, light change to dark, and dark
+          Be as the sun, 't will be no miracle
+          When murder finds a welcome in my heart!
+
+          (Enter Maximilian, Bazaine, Miramon, Dupin, Berzabal,
+          Ruiz, Estrada, Ignacio)
+
+ Max.     (To Dupin) We're glad to welcome you. 'T will be your
+          charge to guard the unprotected towns now suffering from
+          the raids of Liberals.
+
+ Mir.     Of men, your majesty, who steal that title to grace a
+          brigand's life!
+
+ Max.     So we're assured.
+
+ Dup.     I'll see to it, sir, that these towns play no love-tricks
+          with the enemy!
+
+ Baz.     Sh!
+
+ Max.     No danger that way. Your duty is to protect them!
+
+ Dup.     No offense, I hope. But treason is a lively beast and hard
+          to keep low. As your majesty's officer I must cudgel it
+          down wherever I find it.
+
+ Max.     If unhappily you find it, sir--
+
+ Dup.     I'll cut the throat of every man dog of 'em!
+
+ Max.     Sir? (Turns to Bazaine) The Colonel's speech is very
+          figurative, good Marshal. (To Dupin) All instances of
+          treason, (and God forbid there should be one!) will be
+          reported to me for careful investigation.
+
+ Dup.     A thousand pardons, your Highness! I was swept away by my
+          devotion to your majesty! I shall remember that you wish
+          me to observe the mildest temperance in dealing with your
+          majesty's enemies. (As the emperor looks questioningly at
+          Bazaine, Dupin snarls, then repeats suavely) The mildest
+          temperance in dealing with your majesty's enemies.
+
+ Max.     That is our wish. The mildest temperance. And this decree,
+          Colonel Dupin? Would you advise its passage?
+
+ Dup.     I should be so hot to sign it, sir, my zeal would boil the
+          ink in the bottle!
+
+ Max.     Very figurative, Marshal! (To Dupin) As yet we have not
+          reconciled the matter with our conscience.
+
+          (Lopez enters and comes up to the Emperor)
+
+ Lop.     (Handing him a slip of paper) Your majesty, the Empress
+          sends you this.
+
+          (Maximilian reads aside:) 'Sign the decree.'
+
+ Max.     (Aside) What has she heard?
+
+ Dup.     (At a distance, in rear of Maximilian, folds his hands
+          meekly on his breast and whistles softly)
+
+          'When we sacked the summer palace at Pekin!' (Mimics)
+          'As yet we have not reconciled the matter with our
+          conscience.' Does he think he can govern Mexico with a
+          prayer-book? Put him in his cradle and sing by-lo-baby!
+
+ Max.     (To Miramon, who has spoken to him)
+          There's only one left to oppose it--Charles.
+
+ Mir.     My lord, you'd set a scholar's word against
+          A general's in matters of the field?
+          The count's opinion, born within a closet,
+          Would die in open air but for your nursing.
+
+ Max.     Come, Count, defend your cause.
+
+ Char.                                    My cause, my lord?
+
+ Max.     You are but one against the government.
+          Canst talk above so big a head? If not,
+          I fear we'll pass this law of blood. Come, come!
+          Be eloquent! My heart would have you win!
+
+ Char.    (Very pale and hesitating)
+          Your majesty--I beg--
+
+ Max.                           Goes it so deep
+          To your good heart?
+
+ Mir.                         My lord--
+
+ Max.                                   Forgive me, Charles,
+          For pressing you so much. We'll rest to-night.
+          To-morrow there'll be time.
+
+ Char.    (Hastily)                   No! Not to-morrow!
+          Sign the decree! Sign it to-night!
+
+          (Maximilian looks with the greatest astonishment at
+          his now flushed face and eager manner, then thinks
+          he understands)
+
+ Max.                                         Ah, Charles,
+          This tender heart of yours will kill you yet.
+          No more of this. I'll keep you at your books.
+
+ Char.    (Recovering, proceeds with suavity, completely sold
+          to his desire)
+          My mind has cleared with deeper thought, my lord,
+          Discord, the ancients tell us, was at first
+          So small a gnat did give her birth, but grew
+          So great her feet o'erturned proud cities while
+          Her head upset the gods in council. So this
+          Small trouble may o'ercast your destiny--
+          And is 't not better, sir, to pass a law,
+          However dreaded, 'gainst the rebel few
+          Than that the nation trusted to your care
+          Should be broad cursed with civil slaughter?
+
+ Max.                                                   Better?
+          If such a danger threatens 'tis a crime
+          Not to forfend it!
+
+          (Enter Marquez and Archbishop Labastida)
+
+ Lab.                         Gracious sovereign!
+
+ Max.     Most reverend father, you would counsel us?
+
+ Lab.     We would, your majesty. If yet the wish
+          Of Heaven has power over you; and Christ
+          Be your most high example, you will prove
+          A careful guardian to your trusting people,
+          And crush this villainous and robber race
+          Now preying on the true and innocent,
+          Swelling each day more poisonous and foul!
+
+ Max.     We are decided. Are we not, good Charles?
+
+ Mar.     (Hastily) Nay, sire--
+
+ Max.                           We are decided--to pass this law.
+          Convinced that 'tis the honest course.
+
+          (All surprised and relieved but Ignacio, who starts with
+          horror)
+
+ Ig.      My God!
+
+ Mir.             Blest majesty, we thank you!
+
+ Lab.                                           You do but set
+          Your name where Heaven's seal already shines.
+
+ Ig.      The seal of Hell! O noblest man that breathes
+          This corrupt air, take back that word of death
+          Ere it is stamped in black upon your soul!
+
+ Mir.     (After a silence)
+          An Aztec, sire, and nephew to Juarez.
+
+ Max.     You think that is a sin? Among our friends
+          Are many whose nearest kinsmen nobly served
+          The lost Republic. Hear us, Ignacio.
+          This law is subject to a firm condition:
+          Each officer shall make report to us,
+          And every captive who deserves not death
+          Shall have our pardon.
+
+ Ig.                              Then, you'll pardon two
+          Now at Savarro, Trevino and Mendorez,
+          Both doomed to die at sunrise!
+
+ Mir.                                     Ravagers!
+          Brigands! Ay, murderers!
+
+ Ig.                                No! Patriots!
+          Soldiers! And martyrs if they die! My lord,
+          If they have plundered, 'twas to feed an army;
+          If they have killed,--that is the aim of war.
+          They are your foes, but noble ones,--and men,
+          Not creatures to be caught in traps and shot
+          Like beasts!
+
+ Max.                   We'll look to this. Marquez, at once
+          Send a dispatch commanding they be held
+          As prisoners of war until we've time
+          To examine them.
+
+ Mar.                       I will, your majesty.
+
+ Ig.      My lord, at Callovalla when the French
+          Had routed the Republicans, there came
+          At night some student priests into the field
+          To help the wounded and to cheer the dying.
+          This man, Marquez, set on them with his troop
+          And made them prisoners. The morning sun
+          Beheld each saintly minister shot dead.
+          And you would trust this devil with the life
+          Of captive foes? A man whose hands are red
+          With God's own blood?
+
+ Mar.                           He lies! Your majesty,
+          I'll prove him traitor to your very eyes!
+
+ Ig.      Traitor?
+
+ Mar.               Ay, sir, and spy! Lay bare his arm,
+          And see the branded cross!--the sacred mark
+          Of those who've sworn to die in Juarez' cause!
+
+          (Snatches at Ignacio's arm as if he would expose it)
+
+ Ig.      Liar and devil! do not touch me!
+
+ Mar.                                       Spy!
+
+ Lop.     The proof is easy, sire. Expose his arm!
+
+ Ig.      I scorn such proof! And with my sword I'll meet
+          Who dares lay hand upon me!
+
+ Lab.                                 Justice, sire!
+          Command him to lay bare his arm!
+
+          (Silence. Maximilian approaches Ignacio slowly and lays
+          his hand on his arm)
+
+ Max.     (Turning to Marquez, his hand still on Ignacio)
+          You are a soldier, able and honorable.
+          I trust you with my captives.... Ignacio,
+          You are no traitor,--and I trust you with
+          My confidence. Both are deceived. 'Tis I
+          Must study how to heal this sad division.
+          ... But now, we'll sign this necessary law.
+          Come in with me, my friends. (Exeunt all but Ignacio)
+
+ Ig.                                    Too noble soul!
+          Too gentle heart! O foul, most foul betrayal!
+          He dooms himself. O, Maximilian,
+          We go on different ways, but each to death!
+          The truest heart about thee is my own,
+          And I'm a spy--death-vowed to be thy foe!
+          I'll warn the empress!... No. Sealed to the cause.
+          Dead I may guard her. Death alone may give
+          Me to her service. There's no oath can bind
+          The disembodied spirit. (Takes paper from his pocket)
+                                  Here's set down
+          All I have learned of the Imperial plans.
+
+          (Burns paper in candle flame)
+
+          'Tis fixed in memory, and if I live
+          Juarez shall hear it all,--and--if I die--
+          The grave is asked no questions. (Suddenly) Rafael!
+          This signed to-night, to-morrow Rafael dies.
+          Marquez will cut off all reprieve. One way
+          Is left.... I'll go. With life already lost
+          Who would not fling the corpse to save a friend?
+          My honor's bound to freedom and Juarez,
+          My heart bound to the Empress and her lord.
+          O, love, while I have life thou must command me,
+          Then to save honor ... let me die!... Ah, could
+          I save thee too, Carlotta! O, what woe
+          Awaits thy heart, madonna, saint ... and love!
+          Might I but say farewell before I go,
+          Then I could spur to death with happy heart,
+          And I must travel fast to reach Savarro.
+
+          (Takes a lady's glove from his bosom)
+          My treasure, come!
+
+          (Enter Carlotta)
+
+ Car.                         It must be signed ... it must ...
+          (Sees Ignacio)
+
+ Ig.      O, little finger casements, do you mourn
+          Your pretty tenants lost?--five rose-sweet nuns
+          That pray at one white shrine! (Kisses glove)
+
+ Car.     (Advancing)                     I hope, my friend,
+          She's worthy of your noble love.
+
+ Ig.                                        O, madam,
+          In her doth Heaven on earth make sweet beginning.
+          And aspirations tend her from the skies.
+
+ Car.     And she is beautiful as good?
+
+ Ig.                                    O, fair
+          As olden marble walking down to us.
+          Or that immortal Helen on whose lip
+          Poets still feed the dream that's never fed!
+
+ Car.     She must be fair indeed. I hope she loves
+          As much as she's beloved.
+
+ Ig.                                Nay, she dreams not
+          Of my poor worship.
+
+ Car.                         You must tell her, sir.
+
+ Ig.      With her I have no tongue, and can not woo.
+          To see her is to think in hurrying dreams
+          That move about some new desire of God.
+          Nay, she's the picture finished, vision complete,
+          That perfect stands where dream no farther goes
+          And shuts the gates to prophecy!
+
+ Car.                                       Would you
+          But woo her thus you'd win her, never fear!
+          We women would be beautiful, and love
+          The tongue that makes us so. Go, talk to her
+          As you have talked to me.
+
+ Ig.                                'Tis not the same.
+          There's something in your smile inviteth speech.
+          Were she but you then would I kneel and say, (kneels)
+          O rest me 'neath the heaven of your eye
+          That gathers blessings as the sun his dews
+          To give again to earth, and let your heart
+          Throb once with pity sweeter than the love
+          That other women give, and yet be dumb,
+          That this sweet moment's balm may wrap my heart
+          Till death bids it be still. O, love me not,
+          But on my head lay thy madonna hand,
+          And bless me as a mother would her child
+          Who goes to death in going from her eyes!
+
+ Car.     (Laying her hand on his head)
+          And I will bless thee, too, as she would do,
+          True knight of love, gentle Ignacio!
+          And yet I hope you will ask more of her,
+          And she will grant it.
+
+ Ig.      (Rising)                More is too much. Farewell.
+          I leave the court to-night,--but go content,--
+          Ay, happy! (Exit)
+
+ Car.                 He leaves the court!... What a strange youth!
+          But very true and noble, and well deserves
+          The fairest woman's love. (Picks up glove dropped
+          by Ignacio)               He's lost her glove.
+          I'll send it after him. (Calls attendant) Andorro!... Ah!
+          It is my own! Yes ... yes ... the same ... here is--
+          My own indeed!... And that is why he leaves
+          The court!... Poor youth! (She drops glove. Enter Andorro)
+                                    Ignacio just passed out.
+          He dropped this glove. His lady's favor maybe.
+          I'm sure 'tis prized. Haste, take it after him.
+
+ And.     (Picks up glove)
+          Your pleasure, royal madam! (Going)
+
+ Car.                                 No--that way.
+
+                                                    (Exit Andorro)
+
+          ... Unhappy boy!... I'm glad I sent the glove.
+
+          (Enter Maximilian and ministers)
+
+ Car.     (Going to him and taking his arm)
+          'Tis signed?
+
+ Max.                   'Tis signed, my love. Come, friends! This act
+          Of wisdom passed gives me a lighter heart!
+
+          (All but Marquez go into ballroom)
+
+ Mar.     The great death-warrant's signed. Ere its black list
+          Be full, there'll be an emperor on the roll!
+
+          (National music. Dancers seen through doors, the emperor
+          and empress among them)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene I: Before the Imperial Theatre. Brilliant lights. Crowd
+confusedly assembled. All talking.
+
+ Shouts.  Long live the Empire!
+
+ Citizen.
+          O you mob, you puppet throat, that whistles as you're
+          squeezed!
+
+ A Mob Orator.
+          My friends, to-day we gloriously celebrate the
+          birthday of the most glorious empire--
+
+ Cit.     Long live the Republic! Hail to Juarez!
+
+ Voices.  To dungeon with him! The traitor! Tear him to pieces!
+
+          (Guards dash upon citizen and drag him off)
+
+ 1st Officer.
+          Don't tell me the Republic is dead when a man is
+          willing to die just to give one shout for it.
+
+ 2d Officer.
+          Three-fourths of the Mexicans have hearts of that
+          color. But the Empire stands. Miramon is a miracle. How
+          does he manage it?
+
+ 1st Off.
+          He understands the use of the bayonet. As our friend
+          over the water says, you can do anything with bayonets
+          but sit on them.
+
+ 2d Off.  Isn't this a rabble? Motley's the only wear in
+          Maximilian's court. He might succeed in running this
+          country if so many people hadn't come along to help
+          him do it. You ask a French question and you get a
+          Dutch answer. You give an order in Prussian and it's
+          obeyed in Irish,--
+
+ Voices.  He comes! Make way! Make way! Hail to Maximilian!
+
+ Chief Guard.
+          Back, all of you! The Emperor will greet you yonder!
+          We've orders to clear the plaza! Back! Back! His carriage
+          stops! Go, get your places! Out! out!
+
+          (Guards drive mob out)
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          If all the Empire's birthdays are to be like this I
+          hope it will never come of age. It's work, I tell you! I'm
+          dripping like a squeezed cloud!
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          If it had pleased the Empire to spend a little of the
+          money it has wasted to-day for the widows and orphans it
+          has made--
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Sh! We're paid for our muscle, not our opinions.
+          (Shouts outside)
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          And the mob is paid for its lungs!
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Yes. Miramon sees to that.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          Only the Emperor's carriage approaches the door?
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          None but his.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          If I were he I wouldn't make such a glittering show of
+          myself in that Milan carriage--all gold and silver and
+          tortoise shell, and an angel at every corner--while there
+          are so many hearts breaking in sound of it.
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Ph! He knows nothing of the breaking hearts! Miramon
+          sees to that.
+
+ 2d Guard.
+          He'll have to know soon, or Juarez will tell him in
+          the capital.
+
+ 1st Guard.
+          Not a word! On your life! (Shouts without) Here they
+          are! By Jesu! The fools have taken the mules from the
+          carriage and draw it themselves! Now I wonder how much a
+          head Miramon pays for that!
+
+          (Enter rabble of shouting citizens drawing carriage in
+          which sit the Emperor and Empress. They are followed by a
+          brilliant party of ladies and gentlemen. General and Madam
+          Miramon, Princess de Varela, Prince and Princess Zichy,
+          Prince and Princess Salm-Salm, Lopez, Count Charles,
+          Marquez, Archbishop Labastida, Estrada, Berzabal, and
+          others)
+
+ Max.     (To citizens)
+          My friends, though I protest against this honor,
+          I thank you from my heart for such kind proof
+          Of your affection. (Alights)
+
+ Voices.                      Long live Maximilian!
+
+ One of the rabble, awkward and ignorant.
+          Long live the President of the Empire!
+
+ Max.     (Smiling) I've no objection to that title, friend, but I
+          fear it would be criticised in Europe.
+
+          (Crowd passes out shouting and dragging carriage)
+
+ Max.     (To Carlotta, as he looks at theatre) A
+          noble building! Fair and magnificent!
+
+ Car.     How yonder gardens gleam beneath the lights
+          Like some soft dream of worlds we do not know!
+
+ Max.     And all is yours, my sweet,--all planned by you!
+          O love, you shall be mistress of a land
+          The fairest ever smiled up to the sun!
+          What say you, Charles? Does not this hour repay
+          Even the sacrifice of Miramar?
+
+ Car.     (Smiling) Nay, he longs still for the old nooks and books.
+
+ Char.    Let me admit it. This mistress Pleasure, sir,
+          Though she is fair is not so wondrous fair
+          As goddess Knowledge. Beautiful as bride
+          To her lord's eye is she to worshippers,
+          Who seek and woo her till she yieldeth up
+          Her locked virginity--the Truth!
+
+ Max.     (Affectionately) Ay, Charles,
+          Get knowledge if thou canst, and yet despair not,
+          For none so poor but virtue may be his;
+          And though your knowledge is earth's silver key
+          That opens man's and nature's heart,
+          'Tis golden virtue opens Heaven and shows
+          The God among his stars.... But, come, dear friends!
+          Pleasure is a true goddess too. We'll show
+          Her fair respect.
+
+          (All go into theatre but Charles, who drops back unnoticed)
+
+ Char.                      He constantly unmasks me
+          And knows it not. Knowledge! 'Tis withered leaves
+          Amid a world of dewy boughs! Knowledge!
+          To one school will I go--one book I'll read,
+          The school of love, the page of woman's eye,
+          And I'll know more than sages and divines
+          Who study stars and Scripture!...
+          'For none so poor but virtue may be his'
+          O noble soul, had I been true to thee
+          I now could open thy deceived eyes.
+          Crime seals my lips. I can but pray
+          This empire built on blood may stand. We are
+          The creatures of our deeds, more bound to them
+          Than slave to master, for the terms of service
+          Are fast indentured in the soul and know
+          No razure!... But I will find Aseffa! Then,
+          Though sin should set a darkness on my life
+          To draw each night out to a winter's length
+          That constant storms from sallow leaf to green,
+          Still love's sweet lamp shall light me! In my heart
+          'T will be as day!
+
+          (Enter Aseffa veiled, her dress covered with a black
+          cloak. An attendant following. She tries to cross over to
+          side entrance of theatre. A guard stops her)
+
+ Asef.                        I am a singer.
+
+ Guard.                                       Show
+          Your pass.
+
+ Asef.                Here, sir.
+
+          (Guard signs for her to pass on. She sees Charles
+          and stops. Steps before him, throwing back her veil)
+
+ Asef.                            You swore to save him!
+
+ Char.                                                    You!
+          Aseffa! Blest--
+
+ Asef.                    You swore it!
+
+ Char.                                  And would have died
+          To keep my oath could I have kept it dying.
+
+ Asef.    The Emperor refused you? (He bows his head) Demon! Oh!
+
+          (Turns to go, moaning)
+
+ Char.    (Aside) I lose her!... Stay! Is there no hope for grief?
+
+ Asef.    Not mine! Can you not read it here?
+
+ Char.                                        Too well.
+          Thy sorrow is a veil through which thy beauty
+          Burns like a shrouded sun.
+
+ Asef.                                You pity me?
+
+ Char.    As Heaven knows!
+
+ Asef.                      Then you will help me, sir?
+
+ Char.    I'll give my life to do it!
+
+ Asef.                                Ah, you will?
+          Then get me access to the Emperor.
+
+ Char.    O sweet Aseffa, you ask a miracle,
+          And I am sadly mortal.
+
+ Asef.                            I knew! I knew!
+          My misery is your plaything!
+
+ Char.                                  His ministers
+          So hedge him with their care--
+
+ Asef.                                    O spare excuse!
+          But I shall see him, sir! Ay, face to face!
+
+ Char.    Why would you see him? He can not call the dead.
+
+ Asef.    The dead! Thou hast but daggers for me! Ah!
+
+ Char.    Aseffa--
+
+ Asef.              Yes, I'll see him! What think you?
+          Should I go shouting 'murderer' through that hall,
+          Would he arise and answer to his name?
+
+ Char.    You're mad, Aseffa!
+
+ Asef.                        Thank Heaven I am! 'T would be
+          The shame of woman to know all that I know
+          And not be mad!
+
+ Char.                    You must not go in there.
+
+ Asef.    (Fiercely) Must not!
+                (Suddenly calm) Nay, sir! Why see, I go to sing
+          A welcome to the noble Emperor. (Throws back her cloak)
+          As this dark cloak now hides my gay apparel,
+          So shall my gay demeanor hide my woe.
+
+ Char.    You would not harm the Emperor?
+
+ Asef.                                    No need!
+          Yon moon is worshipped for her borrowed gold,
+          Though charred and cold without a leaf to dower
+          Her black sterility. So Maximilian.
+          Napoleon's favor is the sun that gilds
+          His worthless crown. But now the French are going--
+
+ Char.    What?
+
+ Asef.          Ah! The French are going.
+
+ Char.                                    No!
+
+ Asef.    And Maximilian shall fade to air,
+          Unheeded as the moon no eye could find
+          Without her sun!
+
+ Char.                      But hearts can live and love
+          Though Maximilian falls.
+
+ Asef.                              Can live--and love!
+          You torture me!
+
+ Char.                    Forgive me. But the share
+          Must rip the glebe before the corn may spring.
+
+ Asef.    What do you mean, cold Austrian?
+
+ Char.                                      Austrian! No!
+          Your southern sun has poured into my veins
+          A life that makes me new! I feel as you
+          Those throbs that shake the stars until they fall
+          Into the heart and make it heaven! My lips
+          Can move toward lips as haste rose-gloried clouds
+          To swoon into the sun!
+
+ Asef.                            Ah, yes--I know--
+          You told me that you loved. But why say this
+          To one who has lost all?
+
+ Char.                              I'd have you learn
+          That you must live, Aseffa, and life for you
+          Means love. Your eyes, your lips, your hands, your hair,
+          Like coiled sweetness of the night, and all
+          Your swaying, melting body, gather love
+          As roses gather smiles, as waves draw down
+          The heart-flood of the moon and hold it deep
+          And trembling.
+
+ Asef.                    Sir, your roses, waves, and smiles,
+          Are poet-nothings. You play with them as shells,
+          Stirring chance colors for an idle eye.
+          It is your way of saying, is it not,
+          That I shall love again?
+
+ Char.                              You must! you must!
+
+ Asef.    Such words are like bright raindrops falling in
+          Another world. They glitter, but I hear
+          No sound, grief has so closed my ears. Take back
+          Your comfort. You would be kind, but noble count,
+          You talk of what a man can never know,--
+          A woman's sorrow for a husband loved.
+          So high no height can reach it, so great and deep
+          The sea can not embrace it, and yet her heart
+          Can hold it all. O strangest of all love,
+          That makes her rather stoop in beggar rags
+          To kiss the happy dust where his foot pressed
+          Than from a throne lean down to give her lips
+          Unto a kneeling king!
+
+ Char.                          Aseffa, grief
+          Is not for you. You must--you must be happy!
+          The shy and tender Dawn creeps up in fear
+          That Night has laid some blight upon the world,
+          But finding all is well, steps forth, and lo!
+          Out of her courage the great sun is born.
+          So doth the heart look outward after grief
+          To find the world all dark, but nay, the light
+          Is more of heaven than it was before,
+          Because a face is shining from the clouds.
+          You dim your loved one's eyes in paradise
+          With your earth-tears. He mourns your splendor paled,--
+          Though 't must be beautiful to the last tint,
+          As sunset clouds that bear the heart of day
+          Into the night.
+
+ Asef.                    You but offend my grief.
+          Sir, keep your flattery for her you love!
+
+ Char.    I flatter thee? It is not possible!
+          Who dares to add fire to the sun, or bring
+          The Spring a flower? Be angry if you will.
+          The morning's eye is not more glorious
+          Rising above a storm! I flatter thee!
+          When but to praise thee as thou art would put
+          A blush on Poesy that ne'er has rhymed
+          As I would speak! E'en thy defects would make
+          Another fair, and were they merchantable
+          Women would buy thy faults to adorn themselves!
+          O, sweet--
+
+ Asef.    (Shrinking in horror)
+                      What do you mean?
+
+ Char.    (Seizing her hands)           You know!
+          O, all my life has been but dreams of you,
+          And when I saw you first, my love!--my love!--
+          As lightning makes the midnight landscape speak
+          The language of the day, your beauty flashed
+          O'er all my years and made their meaning clear!
+          'Twas you made sweet the song of every bird,
+          'Twas you I found in every book I loved,
+          'Twas you that gave a soul to every star!
+          I can not speak it! Kiss me once--but once--
+          And you will understand!
+
+ Asef.                              What thing is this?
+          It is not man, for man respecteth sorrow,
+          Nor brute, for it doth speak!
+
+ Char.                                  O look not down!
+          Thou canst not guard thee! Every silken sweep
+          Of thine eyes' soft defence but whets assault!
+          You shall not go! You are the element
+          In which I breathe! Go from me and I fall
+          A lifeless thing! Aseffa, pity me!
+          'Tis I who die, not you! (Drops her hands and kneels)
+                                    O blame me not
+          That I must worship here--
+
+ Asef.                                Ah, Rafael,
+          I'll live an hour to pray this wrong away
+          Before I meet thine eyes! (Goes. Charles grasps her cloak)
+                                    Beast! Claw me not!
+
+          (Goes in. Charles gazes after her in a bewildered way.
+          Tries to steady himself, and goes into theatre by main
+          entrance)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Within the theatre. Gay decorations. Part of stage
+shown, on which chorus is assembled. The Emperor and Empress in
+royal box. Imperial cabinet and friends in boxes adjoining. Part
+of pit shown, filled with brightly dressed people.
+
+ Max.     (To Carlotta)
+          O, this is welcome! Are you not happy now?
+          There's not a wrinkle on these smiling brows
+          Where discontent may write her annals dark!
+          My empire now is fixed, and strength and love
+          Are gathering to my side. I can not put
+          My hand out but 'tis clasped by some new friend.
+
+ Car.     And true?
+
+ Max.               And true. You are too fearful, sweet.
+
+ Car.     And you too trustful.
+
+ Max.                           Nay, we can not trust
+          Too much. Brutus spoke noblest when he said
+          'My heart doth joy that yet in all my life
+          I found no man but he was true to me.'
+          And I would hope as much.
+
+ Car.     (Aside)                   None, none are true!
+          Even I am false who fear to speak my fears
+          And ease his own when I should quicken them!
+
+          (Chorus from stage)
+
+                  Hail, ye royal pair, O hail!
+                  Like two souls within one star
+                  May your heavenly light ne'er fail.
+                  Empress and great Emperor!
+
+                  Hail to thee who ruleth mild
+                  As the manger-cradled child!
+                  Hail to her who long may be
+                  Guardian of us and thee!
+
+                  Hail, O hail, ye pair divine!
+                  As two souls within one star
+                  May your light forever shine,
+                  Empress and great Emperor!
+
+          (Estrada appears on stage in front of chorus)
+
+ Est.     Great Majesties, forgive our feeble welcome.
+          We are in all things spotted and imperfect
+          Save in affection for your Highnesses.
+
+ Max.     (Rising) No, no! My friend--and friends--had you not hearts
+          That turn to virtue as the flowers to sun,
+          We had not made such progress to an hour
+          When all the Empire wears the smile of peace,
+          And we may rest like Love with folded arms
+          Round his desire.
+
+ Est.                       'Tis you have led us, sire.
+          Pardon this mockery of what we'd do
+          To celebrate this day had we but means.
+          We shout thy name, but not above the clouds;
+          We send up fires, but lightnings higher reach:
+          We have adorned the city and ourselves,
+          But India and the sea keep back the pearls
+          We would pour here!
+
+ Max.                         Enough--and more, my friends.
+          O, far too much! None mourn now but the gods
+          Who are made indigent by this display
+          Of wealth and joy!
+
+ Est.     (Making low obeisance) We thank your majesty.
+          This land shall e'er be called the happy land,
+          And he who rules it--
+
+ Asef.    (Stepping wildly from chorus) Prince of Murderers!
+          The happy land! O land where widows' cries
+          Choke Heaven, and mothers' tears make each new day
+          A flood!
+
+ Mir.               Guards there! Take her away! The guards!
+
+ Max.     No! Let her stay! We'll answer her!
+
+ Mir.                                         My lord--
+
+ Max.     Madam, we seek your country's love.
+
+ Asef.    How do you seek it? By killing her dear sons!
+          Setting your tigers loose among her children!
+          Mejia from your very breast makes fire
+          On patriot virtue! Dupin wets his teeth
+          By day and night in infant and mother's blood!
+          Maximilian,
+          In brave Trevino's name, Salazar's name,
+          In name of all as noble and as dear
+          To Mexico as they, who daily die
+          Beneath their country's flag the death of dogs,
+          Shot down by your black law--signed by your hand--
+          In name of him as dear to me as thou
+          To that proud woman who shall know what 'tis
+          To clasp a ghost where throbbed her living love,--
+          I tell thee--die!
+
+          (Leaps from stage to Emperor's box attempting to stab him.
+          As she leaps Carlotta springs before the Emperor)
+
+ Car.                       This heart--not that!
+
+          (Aseffa drops her dagger and stands bewildered. An officer
+          seizes her. Utter confusion in theatre. Maximilian goes
+          onto the stage. Silence)
+
+ Max.                                             My friends,--
+          All you who love me see me here unhurt,
+          And you who love me not, if any's here,
+
+          (Cries of "none, none!")
+
+          Take aim now as you will.
+
+          (Cries of "No! no! no! no!")
+
+ A Voice.
+          Long live the Emperor! Maximilian!
+
+ Max.     Then if you love me, friends, I beg you'll leave
+          This place of song and go to the Cathedral.
+          There pray for me to Him who spared my life,
+          And, if you will, pray that He yet may spare it
+          To work His will and yours.
+
+          (Crowd goes out silently)
+
+ Mar.     (To Labastida)              That was well done.
+
+ Lab.     Sincerity is once a diplomat.
+
+ Car.     (To Princess Salm-Salm)
+          Princess, take this poor creature to your care.
+
+          (Officer releases Aseffa, who goes out as in a dream
+          with Prince and Princess Salm-Salm and several ladies)
+
+ Mar.     (Approaching Maximilian) Your Majesty, let me congratulate--
+          Ill, sire?
+
+ Max.                 Sick, sick, O sick of compliments!
+          If I've a friend here let me hear the truth!
+          What did that creature mean? The truth, I say!
+          (Silence) You, Miramon? Lopez? (Silence) Trevino's dead?
+
+ Lop.     He is.
+
+ Max.             And Rafael Mendorez?
+
+ Lop.                                   Dead.
+          The woman is his widow.
+
+ Max.                             Oh!... And this!
+          (Taking out message)
+          This from Dupin! 'All quiet in Savarro.'
+          It means--
+
+ Lop.                 The town is ashes.
+
+ Max.                                     O God! O God!
+          You ministers! Ay, ministers of hell!
+          Didst think ye served the devil?
+
+ Est.                                       O, my lord--
+
+ Max.     No friend! Not one! Charles! Charles! you must have known!
+          These foreign hearts have their excuse, but you--
+          The tower of confidence between us two,
+          Built part by part by faithful mason hours,
+          Is shaken to atoms!
+
+ Char.                        I will build it o'er!
+
+ Max.     First will the wind-strewn rose upgather all
+          Her petals from the dust, and cheek by cheek,
+          Hang them new-smiling on the nodding bough!
+
+ Mir.     Your Majesty, what we have done was done
+          To save our country and your beloved life.
+          Your noble heart was blind to your great danger,
+          And 'twas our duty and our work of love
+          To save you from your fatal tenderness.
+
+ Lop.     (Kneeling) O gracious sovereign, had I but known
+          You did not know, I would have dared the wrath
+          Of all the court, and spoken to you but truth!
+
+ Max.     (Lifting him up)
+          And 'twas your tongue at last that broke the silence,
+          I must forgive you.
+
+ Mar.                         By your necessity,
+          Your Majesty, we may all hope for pardon.
+          Juarez, encouraged by the United States,
+          Is roused again to war. We have appealed
+          For compromise and terms of friendly union,
+          But his one answer for us all is--death!
+          Yet are we faithful to you, sire.
+
+ Max.                                       O Heaven!
+          What poisonous opiate have you fed me with
+          And called it peace? But war is not the worst!
+          Oh, Miramon, did you not swear to me
+          All prisoners taken by that cruel law
+          Should be reported day or night to me
+          That I might pardon or remit their sentence?
+
+ Mir.     O, sir, you knew not your extremity,
+          Nor could you know it though we told it you,
+          The hearts of Mexicans once turned to hate
+          Are far too deep for sincere eyes to pierce.
+          But I thank God we knew the danger, sire,
+          And struck the serpent raised even at your life.
+          When you, all gentleness, could not have given
+          The necessary blow. Ay, God be thanked, although
+          You cast me from your heart. 'T will be my comfort
+          To know I served you better than you dreamed.
+          And 'tis the penalty of over-love
+          To suffer by the hand that (kneels and
+            kisses Maximilian's hand) it would kiss!
+
+ Max.     Must I forgive him, Heaven?
+
+ Lab.                                 Ay, sir, you must,
+          For his deceit was but the greater truth
+          That served your blind necessity.
+
+ Est.                                       O, sir,
+          Do not desert us! If now the Empire falls
+          'Tis death to all that have been true to you.
+          Juarez will give no quarter to your friends.
+
+ Max.     The Liberals advance?
+
+ Mar.                           Each day they're nearer;
+          And towns and provinces fall by the way.
+
+ Berz.    Without you, sir, our cause will die in blood,
+          And Mexico be but a grave for those
+          Who've loved and served you!
+
+ Mar.                                   The United States has ranked
+          Full sixty thousand men on our frontiers,--
+          But we have France--
+
+ Max.                           I am awake! At last!
+          From now no man shall risk his life for me
+          But I take equal chance with him! Ah, this
+          Is war, not murder!
+
+ Mar.                         You will lead our troops?
+
+ Max.     I will.
+
+ Mar.             Then Mexico is saved! The way
+          To win the southern hearts is but to trust them.
+          Leave at your capital the foreign troops
+          And lead your native soldiers 'gainst the foe!
+
+ Car.     (Aside) No! Never! Never! Alone with those dark hearts!
+
+          (Enter Marshal Bazaine with envoy from France,
+          Comte de St. Sueveur, Marquis de Gallifet, and General
+          Castlenau)
+
+ Baz.     My lord, we bring new messages from France.
+
+ Gen. Cast.
+          Your majesty, we beg your gracious pardon
+          For this unseemly pressure.
+
+ Max.                                 You have it, sir.
+          What says Napoleon?
+
+ Cast.    He greets you, sire, with my unworthy tongue,
+          And sends this letter. (Maximilian reads)
+
+ Max.                             My eyes, I think, turn wizards
+          And conjure 'gainst the truth that must be here.
+          For I read false. (Puzzled) What does he mean? Not this--
+
+ Baz.     My lord, my letters make the import clear.
+          I have instructions here to counsel you
+          To make immediate abdication.
+
+ Max.                                   No!
+
+ Car.     What? Abdication?
+
+ Baz.                       Ay! That is the word.
+
+ Car.     A word for fear and weakness, not for strength,
+          And Maximilian is as strong as France
+          While great Napoleon respects his oath!
+          His troops are ours--
+
+ Baz.                           Nay, princess--
+
+ Mir.     (Fiercely)                            Her Majesty!
+
+ Baz.     (Sneers) You prize the feather when the cap is lost?
+          (To the Empress) Pardon a slipping tongue, your Majesty.
+          Those troops you speak of go with me to France.
+          Such is my order--such the firm demand
+          Of the United States.
+
+ Car.                           Is France a province
+          Of the United States? Napoleon
+          Page, lackey, footboy to America?
+          Is she an Empire, he an Emperor?
+          Or have we dreamed he is Napoleon?
+
+ Max.     (Recovered from his bewilderment)
+          Withdraw his troops! He can not--dare not do it!
+          'T would blister history's page to set it down,
+          And 'tis his burning wish to be the star
+          Of human chronicles. I'll not believe it,
+          Though all my senses brand confirming yea
+          Upon my mind. O shout it in my ears,
+          And let me see the troops go marching out,
+          Still I'll believe it is my eyes and ears
+          That mutiny, not France turned traitor!
+
+ Baz.     Your Majesty, you must believe the truth,
+          And make you ready for a swift departure.
+          'T will not be safe here let a moon go by.
+
+ Max.     If danger's here, then here I stay to share it.
+          Dost think I'll leave my friends to die alone
+          While I by flight dishonor Majesty?
+
+ Baz.     'Tis death to stay. You would not be so mad.
+
+ Mir.     Hail to our new-born king! New-born thou art
+          Unto our love. Nay, we did love before,
+          But now we'll worship thee.
+
+ Car.                                 Napoleon!
+          You shall not do this monstrous thing! You shall not!
+
+ Baz.     The crown of France doth ask consent of none.
+
+ Car.     I'll go to him and say such words that from
+          His shame-marked brow his outraged crown will fall
+          In horror. I will go! Take out the troops,
+          Bazaine. Ay, take them out! He will be glad
+          To send them back and purchase with his blood
+          Redemption from such shame. He'll empty France
+          To do it! I will go. But I'll not kneel.
+          A thousand years my blood has run through kings,
+          And he's the _third_ Napoleon!
+
+          (Sinks, exhausted with emotion. Ladies attend her)
+
+ Mir.                                     The traitor!
+          We have no need of him! To France, Bazaine,
+          And tell your Emperor our Emperor
+          Needs not his fickle strength to stand upon!
+          Sire, we have men, and money in our banks--
+
+ Lab.     A mighty church whose power is untold
+          If you restore her rights, as now we hope,
+          And thus united we shall defy the world!
+
+ Max.     And Heaven, too? For that is what we do
+          When we set up the church in her old wrongs.
+          Nay, keep your aid, and I will keep my soul.
+
+ Lop.     Your virtuous angel strives to make you god.
+
+ Max.     No, but to keep me honest.
+
+ Mar.     (Aside to Lab.)             Yield to him.
+          'Tis not the hour to cast him off.
+
+ Lab.                                         My lord,
+          Your virtue conquers, and unto your hands
+          I yield the power o' the church.
+
+ Max.                                       I thank your grace,
+          Nor for myself, but Mexico.
+
+ Baz.                                 I go to France.
+          What message have you for Napoleon?
+
+ Max.     Tell him that he has placed me here between
+          Death and dishonor--and my choice is made.
+
+          (Bazaine and French ambassadors turn slowly and go out)
+
+ Max.     (Quietly to Miramon) We'll join you at the door.
+
+          (Exeunt all but Carlotta and Maximilian. He holds out his
+          arms, and she goes silently to his embrace)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene I: Queretaro. Plaza La Cruz before church and convent. Grey
+light before dawn. Occasional distant firing of guns. Maximilian
+comes out of church and walks about plaza.
+
+ Max.     Carlotta! Where dost thou pray to-night? In all
+          Our fearful scanning of prophetic heavens
+          No swart star showed us this--our separation.
+          Thou wert the all of me, the breath, the soul!
+          Nature conceived thee when her blood was young,
+          And May was in her spirit, but stayed thy birth
+          Till Time had taught her skill in all perfections!
+          ... I will not weep.... Yon stars have memories too,
+          And tell old tales of grandsire suns that shook
+          Their locks and fell ere they were young who now
+          Are eld of all!... (Walks) To lie so low.... O man,
+          Who in the heavens carvest out redemption,
+          Laying thy golden streets in very skies,
+          Making the stars but eyets of thy port,
+          Must thou compact thee to a little earth,
+          Displace some few small tenants of the sod,
+          And find thou 'st room enough?... (Looks up) City of dream!
+          Time's far ghost inn! Eternity's mirage!
+          Desire's dim temple fashioned out of prayer,
+          Builded and jointured by no carpenter
+          But captious Fancy!... O Carlotta, wife!
+          Thou wert my Christian heart! Faith, faith, my God!
+          Death to the unbeliever is to land
+          Upon a coast dumb in the moonless dark,
+          Where no hands wave a welcome, no eyes shine
+          With promise of sweet hours, no voices call
+          The greeting that makes every shore a home.
+          (Listens) My officers! I can not see them yet.
+          (Goes in. Enter Colonel Lopez in close talk with Lieutenant
+          Garza who is disguised as an Imperial officer)
+
+ Garza.   I'm satisfied.
+
+ Lopez.   This hill is the key to the city.
+
+ Gar.     Yes.
+
+ Lop.     And yours on terms we have considered.
+
+ Gar.     Here's Escobedo's guarantee. (Gives paper)
+
+ Lop.     This to my pocket, and Queretaro to the Liberals!
+
+ Gar.     'Tis heavy business. You do it lightly, colonel.
+
+ Lop.     The world's a feather.
+
+ Gar.     If we but think so.
+
+ Lop.     At dawn my troops are yours.
+
+ Gar.     And you command the Empress' regiment.
+
+ Lop.     Yes. The pick of Maximilian's soldiers.
+
+ Gar.     One other question. The southern gate--Hist!
+
+ Lop.     The nuns. (They draw aside and converse. Two nuns come out
+          of convent and cross plaza)
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          The good Emperor is not out yet. He is often here long
+          before day walking and thinking, 'Tis then, they say, his
+          mind is on the blessed Empress who has gone across the sea
+          to get help for him. By day he never speaks her name, but
+          thinks only of our poor country.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Hark! The enemy's guns! They can not reach us.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          Can not? A shell broke here yesterday. The Emperor stood
+          just there.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Holy mother! What did his Majesty do?
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          He smiled, and said he might have chosen his place
+          better; then moved to the very spot where the ball had
+          burst, as though he hoped another would follow it.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Blessed virgin! Would he die?
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          I'm sure he would not live. Come, sister. Ah, we have
+          but one loaf this morning.
+
+ 2d Nun.  Let us be glad we can give that,--for many are hungry.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          Many are starved--dead.
+
+ 2d Nun.  But the good Emperor! It is so sad to think of him
+          without food.
+
+ 1st Nun.
+          He will give this to his officers. Yesterday I saw
+          Prince Salm-Salm and the general Miramon each with a bit
+          of white bread that can not be found in all Queretaro
+          outside of our convent.
+
+ 2d Nun.  The good man! Holy Mother bless and keep him! (They go
+          into the Cruz)
+
+ Lop.     What will you do with Maximilian?
+
+ Gar.     Make a Liberal of him.
+
+ Lop.     Ha! How?
+
+ Gar.     Shoot him!
+
+ Lop.     Shoot him?
+
+ Gar.     Yes. The grave's the great republican senate house,--where
+          each man has the floor.
+
+ Lop.     (Laughing) And you will introduce him!
+
+ Gar.     Hark!
+
+ Lop.     The Emperor! Go! (Exit Garza. Enter Maximilian and Prince
+          Salm-Salm)
+
+ Max.     (Greeting Lopez affectionately) You're early out, my boy.
+
+ Lop.     Your majesty, I am the officer of the day.
+
+ Max.     Yes,--I remember. Who was your friend?
+
+ Lop.     Ramirez, of Dupin's regiment.
+
+ Salm.    Ramirez! He's much changed if that was he.
+
+ Lop.     Shall I call him back, your majesty, that the prince may
+          convince himself that his memory of faces is not
+          infallible?
+
+ Max.     Nay, my trusted two! (Puts an arm about each) Would you
+          might love each other as I love you both. My prince, whose
+          courage is the very heart of my army, and my young hussar,
+          dear for your own sake--dearer still because--she trusted
+          you!
+
+          (Blasio, the Emperor's secretary, comes out of the Cruz)
+
+ Blasio.  Your majesty, I have finished the letters.
+
+ Max.     Good. There will be no more to write. (Stumbles over
+          something) What's this?
+
+ Blasio.  A fallen Christ.
+
+ Max.     You mean a fallen figure of the risen Christ.
+
+ Lop.     Here is the crown of thorns.
+
+ Max.     Give it to me. (Holds it meditatively) How well it suits
+          my fortunes!
+
+ Salm.    Nay--
+
+ Max.     Ay, better than my golden one. (Gives it to Blasio) Hang
+          it above my bed. My Queretaro crown!
+
+ Salm.    Do not, your majesty!
+
+ Max.     (To Blasio) Take it. (Exit Blasio) Why, prince, 'tis
+          something to have won a crown. My first was given me.
+          (Firing and falling of shells)
+
+ Salm.    I beg you, sire, to move your quarters to a safer station.
+          This is death at any moment!
+
+ Max.     Death at any moment--(Regretfully) And I have been here
+          sixty days.
+
+ Lop.     Courage, sire! Marquez will come!
+
+ Max.     (Eagerly) Has there been news?
+
+ Lop.     Not yet, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     Not yet! What does it mean? You heard him take the oath to
+          bring me help or die. 'Twas here he swore--before us all.
+          Vowed to return with troops in fifteen days! Ah, he is
+          dead.
+
+ Salm.    No, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     But if he lives?
+
+ Salm.    He is a traitor.
+
+ Max.     You heard his oath--
+
+ Salm.    A traitor's oath!
+
+ Lop.     He's true, your majesty. His messengers are murdered.
+
+ Salm.    He's false!
+
+ Max.     But that means--death.
+
+ Salm.    Or flight.
+
+ Max.     Not flight!
+
+          (Enter Miramon and Mendez) You're welcome, gentlemen. Your
+          eyes bring news.
+
+ Mir.     Your majesty, Metz has returned.
+
+ Max.                                       At last!
+          News of Marquez! He comes! I know he comes!
+
+ Men.     O, sire,--
+
+ Max.                 The faithful Metz! Where is he?
+
+ Metz.    (Entering)                                  Sire! (Kneels)
+
+ Max.     Rise, sir.
+
+ Metz.                O pardon me, your majesty!
+          I bring but wintry news.
+
+ Max.                               Marquez--
+
+ Metz.                                        Is false.
+
+ Max.     Oh, no, no, no! He comes! I know he comes!
+
+ Metz.    He's leagued with Labastida,--for the church
+          Deserts you too.
+
+ Max.     The church gone with him! No! no! I can't believe it!
+
+ Metz.    You do not doubt me!
+
+ Max.                           Not you! But in my ear
+          The tale turns miracle! And I must doubt,
+          Though on your tongue 'tis truth!
+
+ Metz.                                      'Tis truth indeed!
+          The troops he was to bring you from the city,
+          He led for his own glory against Diaz,
+          Thinking to make himself the conqueror
+          And president of Mexico.
+
+ Max.                               My troops!
+          What then?
+
+ Metz.                Porfirio Diaz routed them
+          To the last man. Marquez himself escaped
+          Alone,--fled unattended from the field.
+
+ Max.     My troops! my troops!... And this is friendship! O God,
+          Give me but enemies!
+
+ Salm.                          Your Majesty--
+
+ Max.     Who calls me majesty? There's none in me.
+          I am a riven oak whose leaf-light friends
+          Fly with misfortune's Autumn. (Steps away, bowed in grief)
+
+ Salm.    (Following him)               I love you, sire.
+
+ Lop.     (Eagerly) So do we all! Your majesty, believe us!
+
+ Mir.     Canst not spare one who have so many true?
+
+ Max.     Forgive me, friends. This treachery's the night
+          Wherein your hearts of gold beat out like stars!
+
+ Lop.     My life is yours, my lord!
+
+ Max.                                 Thanks, dear Lopez.
+          (Takes his hand)
+          In friendship lies the joy superlative,
+          And nearest Heaven. We touch God's hand whene'er
+          We clasp a friend's.
+                                ... But now we must take counsel.
+
+ Salm.    No, sire, we must take action. Pardon me,
+          But our sole hope of safety lies in flight.
+
+ Max.     What! Leave the town to sack and ruin? No!
+          Desert the poor inhabitants, so long our friends?
+          And all our wounded, sick and dying? Never!
+
+ Salm.    But if you stay, my lord, you sacrifice
+          The living with the dying.
+
+ Max.                                 Oh, Heaven, Heaven!
+
+ Lop.     Your Majesty, this counsel is not wise.
+          It is not honor!
+
+ Salm.                      Honor will lead the flight!
+          To stay were crime! Sire, give the order now.
+          At once! The firing to the north has ceased.
+          All night I've reconnoitered. The way is clear
+          For the last time. We'll arm the citizens
+          To cover flight, and in an hour--
+
+ Lop.                                       We'll be
+          Attacked on every side! A madman's counsel!
+
+ Salm.    O, sire, lose not a moment!
+
+ Mir.                                 Lopez is right.
+          To fly from death is not dishonor, but who
+          That values honor throws away one chance
+          Of victory?
+
+ Salm.                There is no chance. Not one!
+          My word is fly, and I'm no coward, sire.
+
+ Max.     You've led our troops where every track was blood,
+          And in the throat of battle, hand to hand,
+          Have fought with Death! We know you'll dare a fight
+          As far as any man while there's a hope
+          Of victory.
+
+ Salm.                But I'll not make my folly
+          The captain to defeat.
+
+ Lop.                             'Tis not defeat!
+          The Liberals are at their fortune's ebb.
+          They're sick with fear, and tremble in their rags.
+
+ Mendez.  Let's fight it out, my lord!
+
+ Max.                                   With starving men?
+
+ Lop.     We're starving, but our foes are starved.
+          Our ammunition fails, but theirs has failed--
+
+          (A shell breaks near them)
+
+ Salm.    That, sir, unspeaks your words.
+
+ Lop.                                     Not so. One shell
+          But tells how few they are, for yesterday
+          They fell in numbers. And to the north, you say,
+          The guns are silent.
+
+ Salm.                          Sire, a moment lost
+          May mean the loss of all.
+
+          (Enter Dupin with two prisoners. Lopez goes to meet him)
+
+ Dupin.   What did you mean by your infernal order to bring these
+          men here? Don't you know old Saint-face won't let them be
+          shot?
+
+ Lop.     Keep quiet. They are my captives, not yours.
+
+ Dup.     I've plugged just ninety-eight this week, and it's too bad
+          not to make an even hundred.
+
+ Max.     (Approaching) Prisoners?
+
+ Dup.     Deserters, your majesty. They have confessed it. I've
+          brought them here for sentence. Will you have them shot at
+          once, or wait till sunrise?
+
+ Max.     None shall be shot. Not one. How often must we say it? If
+          things go well here, good; if not, still is my conscience
+          clear of blood. (To deserter) You've been with the enemy?
+
+ 1st Des.
+          Yes, curse the day! Your pardon, blessed majesty!
+
+ Max.     How fare our foes?
+
+ 1st Des.
+          The best of them as bad as the worst with us.
+
+ Lop.     You note that, prince?
+
+ 2d Des.  We have a little food, but they have none. The country
+          is eaten bare. Diaz is trying to reach them with supplies,
+          but at present there isn't enough meal in ten miles of the
+          army to make an ash-cake.
+
+ Lop.     More proof for the prince, your majesty.
+
+ Max.     Their powder fails?
+
+ 2d Des.  Yes, sire. 'T would be all the same if it didn't, for
+          they've hardly strength left to stand on their toes and
+          fire the guns.
+
+ Max.     Poor fellows!
+
+ Lop.     You can not doubt, my lord, that we shall win with the
+          next assault.
+
+ Mir.     Cast fear to the winds, your majesty!
+
+ Salm.    Who spoke of fear?
+
+ Mir.     Not I! Fear is the devil's magic-glass
+          He holds before us to swell out our vision,
+          Turn hares to lions, stones a lamb might skip
+          To beetling cliffs that ne'er knew human foot,
+          And slightest obstacles, that do but make
+          The mind's fair exercise and moral zest,
+          To barriers, high as heaven, to success!
+
+ Lop.     (Sneering) And Juarez' men of rags to glittering armies!
+
+ Max.     We'll hazard battle.
+
+ Salm.                          I beg your majesty--
+
+ Max.     We know your courage, prince, for it is writ
+          In many a scar; but you are wrong in this.
+
+ Lop.     You'll hear no more of flight, my lord?
+
+ Max.                                             No more.
+
+ Lop.     Then I'll to duty, knowing all is well.
+
+                                                  (Exit Lopez)
+
+ Dupin.   (Aside) And I'll go find a breakfast for my little
+          man-eater. (Clapping his weapon) There's never anything to
+          be done around his saintship. (Exit)
+
+ Mir.     In half an hour?
+
+ Max.     Yes. The plans will then be ready. (Turns to go in) You,
+          prince, with me. Though I've dismissed your head from
+          service, I still must have your heart. (Goes into church
+          with Salm-Salm)
+
+ Mir.     (To Mendez) What do you think of it?
+
+ Men.     Why, sir, I'd rather die fighting than running.
+          And there's a chance for us. The Liberals are beggared.
+          There's hardly a uniform in camp. If Marquez had kept
+          true, we should have saved the empire.
+
+ Mir.     Don't speak of him! Hell's throne is empty while he's on
+          earth!
+
+          (Exeunt Mendez and Mir.)
+
+ 1st Des.
+          Well, comrade, here's promotion fast enough. We that
+          were prisoners are captains of the field. Lead on!
+
+ 2d Des.  Be sure the Tigre is not around. He's got a long claw.
+          Ugh! I feel shaky yet.
+
+          (Exeunt. It grows lighter. Guard comes out of the Cruz and
+          takes station by door. Enter Princess Salm-Salm, Aseffa,
+          and women of Queretaro)
+
+ Princess S. (Excitedly)
+          Admit me to the emperor!
+
+ Guard.                             Your pardon.
+          He must not be disturbed.
+
+ Princess S.                        Oh, but he must!
+          The pity of it that he must!
+
+ Guard.                                 Nay, madam--
+
+ Princess S.
+          Admit us, sir, or I will beat the door!
+
+          (Maximilian comes to door)
+
+ Max.     Some trouble here? The princess! Always welcome!
+
+ Princess S.
+          But such unwelcome news, your majesty!
+          You know I've rooms at Senor Barrio's house.
+          I've long suspected him. Last night he lodged
+          Two men whose conference I overheard.
+          All was not clear, but part was clear enough.
+          One of your trusted officers is false,
+          And you to-day--this hour--will be betrayed
+          Unto your foes.
+
+ Max.                     Impossible!
+
+ Princess S.                          O, sire,
+          Be blind no longer. This lady heard the men
+          As I did. There's no doubt!
+
+ Lady.                                'Tis certain, sire,
+          That they were officers in the Liberal army,
+          And spoke of things that set me all aghast.
+
+ Max.     Good women, I thank you, but you are deceived.
+          There's not a man about me whose true face
+          Is not the table where fidelity
+          Writes him my own.
+
+ Princess S.                  O, sir, 'tis one whose hand
+          Is in your bosom.
+
+ Max.                       Nay--
+
+ Princess S.                      That much I know,
+          Though I know not his name.
+
+ Max.                                 Bold Miramon
+          Is staunch as death. Mendez would in his breast
+          Receive the bullet meant for me. Dupin
+          Has been too cruel to the enemy
+          To hope for life even at treason's price.
+          And Lopez is my own created love,
+          The Empress' guard,--the only Mexic heart
+          I've taken a very brother's to my own.
+
+ Princess S.
+          What shall I do? This moment you must fly!
+          Stand not, your majesty! 'T will be too late!
+
+          (Prince Salm-Salm comes to door)
+
+          Thank God, my husband! His majesty's betrayed!
+          You've never doubted me!
+
+ Prince Salm.                       Betrayed?
+
+ Max.                                         No, prince,--
+
+ Prince Salm.
+          I'll visit every post!
+
+ Princess S.                      You but lose time.
+
+          (The prince hurries out)
+
+          Oh God! Oh God!
+
+ Max.                     Sweet princess, be not troubled.
+          There is no cause.
+
+ Princess S.                  Ah, we are lost!
+
+          (The bells of the city begin to ring)
+
+ Max.                                           You hear?
+          The bells! The enemy has raised the siege!
+          O joyous news!
+
+ Princess S.              No, no, your majesty.
+          That is the traitor's signal of success.
+          Oh Heaven!
+
+ Max.                 What madness! 'Tis impossible!
+
+ Princess S.
+          Those bells proclaim that every Imperial post
+          Is in a Liberal's command. We're lost!
+
+          (Enter citizens and soldiers in confusion)
+
+ 1st Cit.
+          What mean the bells?
+
+ 2d Cit.                        That Escobedo's fled!
+
+ 3d Cit.  Marquez has come!
+
+ 1st Soldier.               No, no! The city's taken!
+
+ 2d Soldier.
+          Juarez is here! The Liberals are on us!
+
+          (Confused talking and shouts continue. Re-enter
+          Prince Salm-Salm)
+
+ Max.     What is it, prince?
+
+ Prince Salm.                 O dearest majesty--
+
+ Max.     The worst!
+
+ P Salm.              'Tis treachery. We are surrounded!
+
+ Max.     Those bells--
+
+ P Salm.                Ring out the enemy's success.
+          Each post is captained by a Liberal.
+
+ Max.     (Calmly to princess)
+          Forgive me. You were right.
+                (To Prince Salm-Salm) Who is the traitor?
+
+ P Salm.  Ask not, I beg you.
+
+ Max.                         His name!
+
+ P Salm.                                Lopez.
+
+ Max.                                           Lopez? (Staggers)
+          Unsay that word--and take my crown!
+
+ P Salm.                                      O, would
+          I could, your majesty! It is too true!
+
+ Max.     Lopez! Carlotta's chosen officer!
+          And heaped with favors high enough to make
+          A pyramid to faith!... Is this the world,
+          Or some strange fancy spinning in my eyes?
+
+ P Salm.  My dearest liege--
+
+ Max.                         Who would not leave a life
+          Where such things be, though death were sleep eternal?
+          ... Lead me 'mong shells and bayonets. But not
+          To kill. My God, there's blood enough been shed.
+          Bid all surrender. Let no more lives be lost.
+          Farewell, my prince.... Now for a friendly shell!--
+          Just here! (Striking his heart, rushes out)
+
+ Princess S.          O save him! I am safe! Go! go! (Exit Salm-Salm)
+
+ 1st Woman.
+          We shall all be butchered!
+
+ Aseffa.  Juarez is no butcher.
+
+ 2d Woman.
+          'Tis Escobedo leads,--and many have bled by him.
+
+ Aseffa.  Be not afraid. I know the Liberals.
+
+ Voices.  They come! they come!
+
+          (Miramon and Dupin rush in)
+
+ Mir.     Where is the Emperor?
+
+ Dup.     Emperor dunce-cap! We must look to our own skins.
+
+          (Enter a score of ragged Liberals led by Rafael. Aseffa
+          stares at him, speechless)
+
+ Mir.     Too late for that!
+
+ Raf.     You are our prisoners. (Liberals take Dupin and Miramon)
+
+ Soldiers.
+          Shoot them! Shoot them! Miramon and Dupin!
+          The butchers! The dogs!
+
+ Raf.     Hold! You are soldiers! Not murderers!
+
+ Dup.     (To soldiers) You rags and bones! Go wash and eat before
+          you touch a gentleman!
+
+ Sol.     You'll not be so nice to-morrow when the worms are at you!
+
+ Asef.    Raphael! (Flies to him)
+
+ Raf.     You here! O blessed fortune! My love! my love!
+
+ Asef.    O, is it true? You are alive! Alive!
+          I too am resurrected, for I was dead,
+          Slain with the news that you were murdered!
+
+ Raf.     I've news too bitter for so sweet a moment.
+          Ignacio bribed my guard--stood in my place--
+          And died.
+
+ Asef.    (Recoiling) You let him die for you?
+
+ Raf.                                           No, no!
+          He carefully deceived me. I thought he planned
+          His own escape with mine.
+
+ Asef.                              O noble friend!...
+          Juarez! He knows?
+
+ Raf.                       Not yet.
+
+ Asef.                                What grief for that
+          Great heart!... But you are here--my Rafael!
+
+ Raf.     By all these kisses--yes!
+
+ Asef.                              These are your lips--
+          Your eyes--your hands--alive! I hear your heart!
+          Your arms are round me, yet this is the earth!
+          My country and my husband safe!
+
+ Raf.                                     God gives
+          Some moments out of Heaven, and this is one!
+
+          (Enter a soldier)
+
+ Sol.     The Emperor is captured by Escobedo!
+
+ Princess S.
+          Not killed! not killed! Thank Heaven for that!
+
+ Sol.                                                   'Twas strange
+          To see him stand like this (folds his arms) among the shells!
+
+ Asef.    Now I could pity him, for he must die.
+
+ Princess S.
+          Die, woman! Die? You know not who he is!
+          Why all the outraged world would rise and raze
+          This devil's country from the face of earth
+          Were Maximilian slain! Let Juarez dare
+          To harm this son of kings and he will learn
+          His beggar's power is but an infant's breath!
+
+ Asef.    Good madam, you have been my noble friend.
+          I would not wound you, but would have you know
+          That better men than Maximilian
+          Have died for lesser crimes.
+
+          (Enter Juarez with soldiers. Dawn has gradually opened and
+          it is now broad sunlight)
+
+ Voices.                                Juarez! Juarez!
+          El Presidente! El Presidente!
+
+ Jua.                                   My men,
+          The town is ours, and with it Mexico.
+          Citizens of Queretaro. I give you back
+          More than your homes,--your liberated country.
+
+ Voices.  Long live the Republic! Liberty forever!
+
+          (Enter Escobedo)
+
+ Esc.     Your Excellency will see the prisoner?
+
+ Jua.     The illustrious duke? Ay, bring him here.
+
+ Esc.                                               He comes.
+
+          (Enter Maximilian under guard)
+
+ Jua.     Great duke, I grieve that I have cause for joy
+          To see you thus. What wishes would your grace
+          Prefer to us?
+
+ Max.                   I have but one request,
+          Your excellency. If more blood must be spilt,
+          Let it be mine alone.
+
+ Jua.                           We grant it, sir,
+          With two exceptions justice doth demand.
+          Dupin and Miramon must die with you.
+          Dupin, who put to most ignoble death
+          The noblest prisoners of righteous war.
+          Dark Miramon, whose cowardly ambition
+          Has sunk his country in her own dear blood,
+          And would do so again did life permit
+          Him opportunity. And you, my lord,
+          Who signed the foulest, most inhuman law
+          Writ down since Roman Sulla's hand grew cold.
+
+ Princess S.
+          O spare him! Spare him, sir! He was deceived
+          By treacherous ministers!
+
+ Jua.                               His ministers
+          Were but his many hands, and for their deeds
+          His heart must answer.
+
+ Princess S.                      O could you know that heart!
+
+ Max.     Dear lady, peace.
+
+ Princess S.                Beloved majesty,
+          I speak for her who prays beyond the sea.
+          ... O, sir, you can not mean that he must die!
+          Help me, Aseffa! Help me plead for him!
+          Does not your Rafael live?
+
+ Asef.                                He lives because
+          Ignacio is dead. (Juarez starts) I must be just.
+
+ Princess S.
+          What has a woman's heart to do with justice?
+          'Tis mercy is its heavenly quality!
+
+ Jua.     Is this thing true? My boy.... Speak, Rafael.
+          ... Tears in your eyes. You need not speak. My boy ...
+          Ignacio.... Unto God I give thee!...
+
+ Princess S.                                    'Tis right
+          That they who would be gods to others' woe
+          Should be proved human by their own.
+
+ Jua.     (Not hearing her)                     And this
+          Is what so many hearts have borne since first
+          The Austrian came.
+
+ Princess S.                  O mercy, mercy, sir!
+          By your own woe show pity unto those
+          Whose hearts must bleed if Maximilian dies!
+          Be merciful! These tears of mine are but
+          The first few drops of the unbounded tide
+          That weeping as the sea weeps round the world
+          Shall drink thy hated land if this good man
+          Dies by your word! Be Christ, not man, and spare him!
+
+ Juarez.  Madam, it is the people and the law
+          Demand this expiation, not Juarez.
+          I grieve to see you on your knees before me,
+          But did each queen of Europe--ay, and king,--
+          Kneel in your place, I could not spare that life.
+
+          (Silence. Sobs. Juarez signs to Escobedo, who leads
+          prisoners away. Dupin's broad hat is pulled low. Miramon
+          steps proudly. At exit Maximilian turns and salutes the
+          people)
+
+ Max.     Mexicans! Long live Mexico!
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT V.
+
+
+Scene I: Audience chamber, the Tuileries. Louis Napoleon alone.
+
+ Lou.     Succeed or fail! However men may run
+          The goal is marked. Yet will we race with Fate
+          In forgone match. Some free of foot and hand,
+          Some stumbling with huge empires on our backs
+          Less certain than the overburdened ant
+          Housing a winter crumb.... Victoire!
+
+          (Enter Secretary)
+
+ Sec.                                           My lord.
+
+ Lou.     If any dispatch from the West arrives
+          Bring it at once.
+
+ Sec.                       Yes, sire. (Exit)
+
+ Lou.                                   America!
+          Thou strange, new power where each man is a king,
+          I have obeyed thy will. Pulled down my empire,
+          Built up that France might the Atlantic stride
+          And stand firm-footed in two worlds. This slap
+          Upon the cheek imperial insults
+          All monarchy, yet Europe shrugs and smiles,
+          When she should blush to ruddy rage of war.
+          ... The West must go ... but here I'll be supreme.
+          Austria and Prussia I urge again to conflict,
+          And promise aid to each, but in my dream
+          They both are doomed and France shall reign alone.
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.   Your majesty, the Marechal Bazaine.
+
+ Lou.     Bazaine! Admit him.
+
+          (Exit Chamberlain)
+
+                              'Tis penance night with us,
+          And this man is the mirror of our conscience,
+          Showing its foulest spots.
+
+          (Enter Bazaine)
+
+ Baz.                                 Sire, I salute you.
+          Now Paris is the star that all eyes seek.
+          The Exposition draws the world to you,
+          Who glitter here as you were made for heaven.
+
+ Lou.                                                   Ay,
+          Here we would shine that none may see our star
+          I' the West grow dark!... Now Maximilian?
+
+ Baz.     He will be shot.
+
+ Lou.                       No jests! I ask you, sir,
+          What terms he may arrange for freedom.
+
+ Baz.                                             None.
+
+ Lou.     You speak not to a fool.
+
+ Baz.                               I trust not, sire.
+
+ Lou.     You know the Mexicans. Tell me the truth.
+
+ Baz.     I know the Mexicans. He will be shot.
+
+ Lou.     God, no! That noble man!
+
+ Baz.                               Pray, sir, what fate
+          Had you in mind for Maximilian
+          When finding him too true to Mexico
+          For your proud aims, you sent such covered word
+          To one Bazaine he could but read therein
+          A revolution and the Emperor's fall?
+
+ Lou.     I would have spared his life.
+
+ Baz.     (Taking out paper)            Then what means this?
+          (Reads)
+          'France weeps no death that brings her better fortune.'
+
+ Lou.     You'd spy a warrant in the alphabet
+          Did you but wish to find one! Think you that
+          Meant--death?
+
+ Baz.     (Closer)      I know it.
+
+ Lou.                               What dare you?
+
+ Baz.                                               Anything--
+          With this safe in my pocket. (Puts up paper)
+
+ Lou.                                   Beware, Bazaine!
+
+ Baz.     When one so mighty as your Majesty
+          Is my protector?
+
+ Lou.                       You--
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.                           The Count von Ostein
+          Beseeches word with you.
+
+ Lou.                               He's welcome to it.
+
+          (Exit Chamberlain)
+
+          Adieu, le marechal.
+
+ Baz.                         My lord--
+
+ Lou.                                   Adieu,
+          Le marechal.                          (Exit Bazaine)
+
+                                    Prussia's ambassador.
+          Now for our role of cheat and crowned dissembler.
+          O for a throne where Truth might keep her head!
+
+          (Enter the Prussian Minister)
+
+          Welcome, my lord.
+
+ Prus.                      Most gracious majesty,
+          The foreign ministers have come in body
+          To speak congratulations and confirm
+          The triumph of the Exposition.
+
+ Lou.     They have our truest thanks. But first, my lord,
+          A word in private with you. Is 't Prussia's wish
+          That we withhold our aid from Mexico?
+
+ Prus.    A question, sire. You know that Austria threatens.
+          Is France in this the friend or enemy
+          To Prussia? There's not an inch of middle ground
+          To stand on. If our foe, then pour your strength
+          To Mexico. If friend, keep it at home,
+          Ready for Prussia's need.
+
+ Lou.                               To be your friend
+          May cost some blood to France.
+
+ Prus.                                    I've heard it said
+          The left bank of the Rhine is a fair country,
+          And worth a little blood.
+
+ Lou.                               Enough, my lord.
+          Let Prussia know she has a friend in France,
+          And with your sanction cover our retreat
+          From Mexico.
+
+          (Enter Chamberlain)
+
+ Chamb.                 Pardon, your majesty.
+          The Empress of Mexico begs audience.
+
+ Lou.     Carlotta? No!
+
+ Chamb.                 She presses urgently
+          To enter.
+
+ Lou.               Here?... We sent our word to her
+          At Miramar!... And yet--she comes--she's here.
+          ... Admit the deputation, and summon, too,
+          Our Empress.
+
+ Chamb.                 The Empress comes. (Enter Eugenie attended.
+          Exit Chamberlain. Enter guards)
+
+ Eug.                                       I hear the ministers
+          Have come to us with state congratulations,
+          And though unbidden, I'll not leave my chair--
+          The co-seat of imperial dignity--
+          Vacant at such a time.
+
+ Lou.                             Welcome, Eugenie.
+          We were about to summon you.
+
+ Eug.                                   Thanks even
+          For tardy courtesy.
+
+ Lou.                         But we have more
+          Than compliments to hear. Carlotta waits
+          Our audience.
+
+ Eug.                   Carlotta! I can not see her! (Rises)
+
+ Lou.     Nay, it was you first cast ambitious eye
+          To Mexico. Now see the end.
+
+ Eug.                                 My lord--
+
+ Lou.     Be seated, madam.
+
+ Eug.                       You command me, sir?
+
+ Lou.     We do.
+
+ Eug.     (Going) Come, ladies!
+
+ Lou.     (To guards)           Let no one pass out!
+
+ Eug.     France, sir, shall know this outrage!
+
+ Lou.                                           When you wish
+          To make it known.
+
+          (Enter ambassadors, Austrian, Russian, Italian,
+          Belgian, and others)
+
+ Rus.                       Most glorious Majesty!
+
+ Belg.    Mighty France!
+
+ It.                      Italy's savior!
+
+ Aus.                                     Christendom's king!
+
+ Lou.     I thank you, my good lords; but we're too sad
+          To smile at compliments; Carlotta comes
+          To beg our power to uphold her throne,
+          Though Heaven has decreed her empire's fall.
+          We ask you hear our open clear defence,
+          And help set forth our duty, that the Empress
+          May see our wisdom through our tears.
+
+ It.                                            We'll lend
+          Your Majesty what voice we can.
+
+ Lou.                                     I thank you.
+          (Aside to Austrian)
+          My lord, a word. The Prussian talons creep
+          Toward Austria. France is your friend.
+
+ Aus.                                             O, sire!
+
+ Lou.     If you would have her strong pray that no sword
+          Of hers be lost in Mexico.
+
+ Aus.                                 I will,
+          My lord.
+
+          (Enter Carlotta, attended by Count Charles, Count
+          de Bombelles, her priest, and women. She goes to Louis
+          and would kneel. He takes her hand)
+
+ Lou.               An Empress must not kneel.
+
+ Car.                                           I'm still
+          An Empress, sir?
+
+ Lou.                       Once to have worn a crown
+          Is always to be queen.
+
+ Car.                             Sire, mock me not.
+          Didst mean no more than that?
+
+ Lou.                                   Lady, you come
+          To beg your empire?
+
+ Car.                         I do not beg, Napoleon.
+          I come to ask you keep your sacred oath,
+          But do not make a beggar of me, sir,
+          Who was a princess in my cradle.
+
+ Lou.                                       Nay,
+          Royal Carlotta, if beggar here must be,
+          See one in us who sue your gentle patience.
+          While strength was ours to give we gave it you,
+          But now is France grown needy of her troops,
+          With Europe surging to a conflict round her.
+
+ Car.     My lord--
+
+ Lou.               America turns baying on us.
+          Should we make war on one who twice o'ercame
+          Our island neighbors when she was but child
+          To what she now is grown?
+
+ Prus.                              Your majesty,
+          'T would be a folly for a clown, not king.
+
+ Car.     America? Easier to stop her now
+          Than it will be when she wears Mexico
+          Like sword at her right side. Austria, Prussia,
+          Strike you no more at neighbor throats, but come
+          And win a fight for God. Napoleon, come!
+          There lies a world that's worth the price of war.
+          Whose swelling breasts pour milk of paradise,
+          Whose marble mountains wait the carver's hand,
+          Whose valley arms ne'er tire with Ceres' load,
+          Whose crownless head awaits the diadem
+          That but divine, ancestral dignity
+          May fix imperishably upon it! A bride
+          For blessed Rome! And will you give her up
+          To ravishers? To enemies of the Church?
+          To unclean hands ne'er dipped in holy chrism?
+
+ Aus.     The time's not ripe for our united swords
+          To ransom her.
+
+ Car.                     The time is always ripe
+          For a good deed. Napoleon, you will come!
+          And though you fail, failure will be majestic.
+          Withdraw like frightened schoolboy and you make
+          Your throne a penance stool whereon you sit
+          For laughter of the nations. But come, and though
+          You fail, when time has brought America
+          To her full, greedy strength, these scornful kings
+          Will then unite in desperate endeavor
+          To give your great conception form and face,
+          And at your tomb they'll lift their shaken crowns
+          And beg a pardon from your heart of dust!
+
+ Prus.    (Aside) He'll yield to her!... Most noble lady, we--
+
+ Car.     I speak, sir, to Napoleon.
+
+ Lou.                                 What help
+          Can Austria give?
+
+ Aus.                       Sire, she has many troubles.
+          The clouds of war threat her with scarlet flood,
+          And little strength has she to spare abroad
+          When foes besiege at home.
+
+ Car.                                 And Austria's chief
+          Is Maximilian's brother! It was not so
+          That day at Miramar when three proud crowns
+          Took oath to serve him in an hour like this.
+          Austria powerless! And Belgium--dead.
+          But France--Ah, France, she will prove noble, loyal
+          To God and honor!
+
+ Lou.                       My honor, dearest lady,
+          Permits me not to risk my country's life
+          That you may wear a crown in Mexico.
+          I can not save your empire.
+
+ Car.                                 Then let it fall,
+          But save--my husband's life!
+
+          (Astonishment and silence)
+
+ Lou.                                   You speak but madly.
+          America has sent us guaranties
+          She will demand that Maximilian
+          Be held but as a prisoner of war.
+          The Mexicans dare not proceed against him
+          Contrary to the mighty government
+          That is sole friend unto their scarce born state.
+
+ Car.     America demands with paper words
+          That can be torn and laughed at. Would she save him?
+          Let her demand his life with cannon turned
+          Upon his murderers. Then, sire, I'll trust
+          To their obedience. Till then I'll plead
+          With you. All hope is here.
+
+ Lou.                                 Not so, dear lady.
+          Italy, Austria, and your Belgium,
+          Have sent their ablest counsel to defend him.
+
+ Car.     Troops, troops, my lord, not wordy men of law,
+          Are his sole need. Should God send angels there
+          He'd choose but those who bear the flaming sword.
+          ... Here, here, my lords! Look here! His guaranties,
+          In his own hand set down! Here he vows faith
+          To Maximilian--and to Heaven! Hear!
+          'I, Louis Napoleon, take solemn oath
+          Upon the honor of a man and king--'
+          Shall I go on, my lord? Have you forgot?
+          Then let my tongue be as a burning pen
+          To write it new upon your heart!
+
+ Lou.                                       No! no!
+          In God's name, no!
+
+ Aus.                         Dear lady, this is torture.
+
+ Car.     Torture for you?--for him? Then what is it
+          For me, my lord?
+
+ Prus.                      Wouldst have his majesty
+          False to his country to be true to you?
+
+ Aus.     The oath he took was, by the courtesy
+          Of nations, subject to the change that time
+          Visits on countries as on men.
+
+ Car.                                     You'd win
+          His sword from me that you may use it! Sirs,
+          He plays you 'gainst each other as the eagle
+          Sets ospreys in contention over prey
+          That he may filch the prize!
+
+ Lou.                                   Carlotta!
+
+ Car.                                             Be warned!
+          He'll know no ease till in your capitals
+          He has re-crowned the great Napoleon!
+
+ Lou.     Nay--
+
+ Car.           Stop me not! Here you shall stand as bare
+          To these men's eyes as you do to my own!
+
+ Lou.     My lords, you will not let her troubled mind
+          Weaken your trust in me?
+
+ Prus.                              Your majesty,
+          We know you noble.
+
+ Car.                         Noble! Napoleon,
+          This wondrous city is aflame with joy,
+          The blazing fires now dart aloft and write
+          In golden light your name upon the skies,
+          But in your heart will burn a torch of hell
+          Unquenchable, if you deny me aid!
+
+ Lou.     Dear madam, pray believe that I am helpless.
+
+ Car.     You are as strong as France, Eugenie, help me!
+          If e'er you held a dear head on your breast--
+          You have!--for you've both son and husband! Ah,
+          I have no child. My lord is all to me.
+          O put your two in one and you will know
+          What now I plead for! By the kisses dropped
+          Upon your baby's cheek, and by the hope
+          That you will see him grow up at your side,
+          Another self with heart-strings round your own,
+          I pray you, lady, soften that stone heart!
+          I kneel to you, an empress though my crown
+          Has fallen, as yours I pray will not,
+          And at your footstool beg my husband's life!
+
+          (Eugenie rises)
+
+          By your child's love, I beg you for one word!
+          Help me, Eugenie, or the day will come
+          When you will know a crown is but a band
+          Of metal cold, and one warm kiss more dear
+          Than all such circling glory! When you will grow
+          Mad with the longing but to touch the hand
+          Now lies in yours as it would never part,
+          Strain for the face whose beauty fed you once
+          Until your madness builds it out of air
+          To gaze with sweet unhuman pity on you
+          Yet come not near for kisses! O, even now
+          I look through sealed up time unto a night
+          When sleep will fly from your woe-drowned eyes,
+          And you will cry to Heaven for blessed death
+          To lead you from the midnight desolation!
+          Eugenie, save thyself! For thy own sake
+          Show pity unto me, and in that hour
+          Receive the mercy that thou now dost give!
+
+ Eug.     (Going) Help me! I'm ill! (Her women assist her out)
+
+ Car.                               Gone! Gone? And yet a woman!
+          Ah, there's a God will suffer not this wrong!
+          ... Napoleon--
+
+ Lou.                     Nay, madam, we've said all.
+          I can not cast my country into war.
+          You but fatigue yourself.
+
+ Car.                               O Heaven! Fatigue!
+          Canst think of that when Maximilian
+          Is facing bayonets for honor's sake?
+
+ Lou.     Believe me, he is safe!
+
+ Car.                             I tell you no!
+          To-day the guns from Mont Valerien
+          Pealed out your glory! Your arm was in the arm
+          Of Prussia's monarch, and Waterloo forgot!
+          You laughed with Austria's chief, as though the duke
+          Of Reichstadt were not dead! The bloody snows
+          Of Moscow melt in Alexander's smile!
+          Edward's in France, St. Helena's a myth!
+          And all the world is trooping here to feed
+          Your monstrous vanity! But let the morn
+          Bring news of Maximilian's death,
+          These kings will shudder from you as from plague,
+          The conscious earth refuse your feet a base
+          For shame to bear you! Then will begin your fall.
+          Down, down you'll creep to an unpitied death,
+          And winds that shriek around your exile bed
+          Will cry me prophetess!
+
+ Lou.     (After a silence)       Your audience
+          Is over. Pray go and rest. You need much sleep.
+
+ Car.     A woman sleeps not till her heart is safe.
+          My eyes shall not be closed till I've your answer.
+
+ Lou.     You have it, lady, and we beg you leave us.
+
+ Car.     Leave! leave! O sir, it is a lie I hear! (Falls at his feet)
+          You did not say it! See! I kiss your feet! O sir--
+
+ Lou.     (Withdrawing) You put us to discourtesy.
+          Since you will not withdraw, we leave you.
+
+ Car.     (Leaping up)                                Coward!
+          Then, Louis Napoleon, Emperor of France!
+          Thou art a murderer, and I have kissed
+          The devil's hoof! (Exit Napoleon)
+
+          (Carlotta stands dazed, looking after Napoleon. Puts her
+          hand over her eyes. Count Charles goes to her)
+
+ Char.    Dear madam, come with me. (She looks about bewildered)
+
+ One of her women.                  Your majesty,
+          We pray you come.
+
+ Car.     (Strangely)       Yes--yes-- I'll go. Away!
+
+          (Exit with her attendants)
+
+ Aus.     A gloomy business, truly.
+
+ Prus.                              'T has wrought upon me.
+
+          (Re-enter Napoleon)
+
+ Lou.     My lords, believe me grateful for your help
+          In this most wretched business.
+
+          (Enter Secretary)
+
+ Sec.     A dispatch, sire, from Mexico.
+
+ Lou.                                     We'll hear it.
+          All here should share this news with me.
+
+ Sec.                                               'Tis short,
+          Your majesty.
+
+ Lou.                   The sooner read. We wait.
+
+ Sec.     (Reads) 'By order of Juarez, the Austrian duke, Ferdinand
+          Maximilian, has been shot.'
+
+          (Silence. Napoleon groans)
+
+ It.      It can't be true!
+
+ Bel.                       'Tis false! I'll not believe it!
+
+ Prus.    Grieve not, your Majesty. This is a mock
+          Dispatch.
+
+ Aus.               A noble archduke! Bound by ties
+          Of blood and love to every court of Europe!
+          Believe this not, my lord!
+
+ Sec.                                 Your Majesty,
+          This second message from America
+          Confirms the other.
+
+ Lou.                         'Tis true! My God, 'tis true!
+
+ It.      Carlotta! Who will tell her?
+
+ Lou.                                   None shall do it!
+          She must not know.
+
+ Rus.                         Pardon me, sire, she must.
+
+ Lou.     Then his death bullet has not stopped its flight.
+          'T will end but in her heart.
+
+          (Re-enter Count Charles. Napoleon silently gives him the
+          despatch, which he reads with great agitation)
+
+ Char.    (To himself)                  O terrible! And yet
+          No news to me--to me.
+
+ Lou.                           You'll tell her, sir?
+
+ Char.    There is no need, my lord. Her reason's fled.
+          She's mad.
+
+ Bel.                 'Tis Heaven's mercy!
+
+ It.                                        Unhappy woman!
+
+ Char.    She is not wild, but gentle, and thinks, my lord,
+          You've granted her request.
+
+ Lou.                                 Noble Carlotta!
+          My lords, forbear awhile. I'd be alone.
+
+ It.      God grant you rest.
+
+          (All go out but Napoleon)
+
+ Lou.     These kings I've called here to a dance must lead
+          A funeral. What can I say to them?
+          To Austria--his brother! England--his own cousin!
+          To Belgium--_her_ brother! Spain-- O, all
+          The _world_, that loved him!... An Emperor--and shot.
+
+          (Musical procession passes in street. Shouts of
+          'Vive l'empereur! Vive l'empereur!')
+
+          He too heard shouts like those--saw fires ascend
+          To write his triumph--ay--and he is cold--
+          Quite cold--shot dead.... Carlotta! prophetess!
+          I feel--I know--thy oracle's from God!
+
+          (Falls at the foot of the imperial chair)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Miramar. A balcony overlooking the sea. Lady Maria
+alone.
+
+ Mar.     Here they went out together--arm in arm,--
+          Sweet, healing spirits to a bleeding land.
+          Down yonder terrace to the sea they passed,--
+          He unto death, and she--to--(Sighs deeply)
+
+ Car.     (Without)                     Cousin!
+
+ Mar.                                           Ah!
+
+          (Turns smiling to greet Carlotta who enters carrying
+          flowers)
+
+          So early out? What treasures have you there?
+
+ Car.     The sweetest flowers that ever peeped up head.
+          They grow along the path in that dear wood
+          Where Maximilian took me gypsying
+          When we grew weary of the world.
+
+ Mar.                                       I'm sure
+          That was not often.
+
+ Car.                         True. We loved too well
+          Our work among the people to hide ourselves
+          In little corners of delight. But oh, those times!
+          How he would catch me as I ran and say
+          His little wild-girl with her flower crown
+          Was dearer than his princess ermine-gowned.
+          And so I'll wreathe these buds into my hair,
+          And meet him as he loved me best.
+
+          (Goes to edge of the balcony and looks to sea)
+
+                                            To-day!
+          This blessed, beauteous day our eyes shall see him!
+
+          (Drops flowers in trance of happiness)
+
+ Mar.     Sweet Empress--
+
+ Car.                     Empress? No! To-day I am
+          His little wild-girl with her wreath of flowers.
+          O, I must make my crown! Now, now, how careless!
+
+          (Picks up flowers, sits and weaves them)
+
+          You see this flower?
+
+ Mar.                           'Tis very beautiful.
+          What is it?
+
+ Car.                 I've seen it only in our wood.
+          Maximilian says it grows but for my hair. (Sings)
+
+                  In a young, sweet hour of Spring
+                  I sat 'neath an old tree to sing
+                                          Of love, only love!
+                  The little brook took up my tune
+                  And to his soft green banks did croon,
+                  The green grass rippled to the tree
+                  And every leaf shook melody
+                                          Of love, only love!
+                  And then the birds that flitted by
+                  Told it the clouds that told the sky,
+                  And all the world to song did start
+                  With what I sang but to my heart!
+                  Ay, all the world sang back to me
+                  A little maiden 'neath a tree
+                                          Of love, only love!
+
+          (Puts down flowers and goes to Lady Maria)
+
+          Ah, cousin, do you think he'll be delayed?
+
+ Mar.     Dear madam, I fear me so.
+
+ Car.     These ships! these ships!
+          How slow their wings when they do bear our loved ones!
+          The wandering treasures of our empty arms!
+          The western waters must have sirens too,
+          And will not let him pass.
+
+ Mar.                                 Indeed they would not,
+          Did they but know what majesty is in him.
+
+ Car.     (Embracing her)
+          O help me love him, dear. My heart's too small.
+
+          (Enter Count Charles)
+
+ Char.    A message.
+
+ Car.                 Oh! a message! I do not want
+          A message.
+
+ Char.                The admiral of the port has word
+          The Emperor's ship's delayed.
+
+ Car.                                   Why, we'll not weep....
+          'Tis but a day.... (Goes forward, looking out)
+                              To-morrow, then--to-morrow!
+          (To Lady Maria) Why do you weep? A day's not worth a tear.
+          See, I can smile!... But my poor flowers will fade.
+          I plucked them all.... No more grow by the path....
+          (Suddenly) Cousin, why wear you black?
+
+ Mar.     (Confused)                              I--madam--I--
+
+ Car.     Such sable hues for this so rosy day?
+          Go dress your body like our happy hearts!
+          Dost think a coffin comes across the sea?
+          A coffin--(Shudders) Go! I can not bear this black!
+
+          (Exit Lady Maria)
+
+          I am displeased. Have I not reason, Charles?
+          'Twas very wrong of her to dress in black
+          When Maximilian comes. I will go in.
+          I'm tired--but I am very happy. Ah! (Exit)
+
+ Char.    O wounded heart! Thus every day she hopes,
+          And every day begins her hope anew.
+          It is my penance now to watch her sorrow,
+          To guard perfection's wreck in her sad body,
+          And hear the name of Maximilian fall
+          Each moment from her lips. O, God, remember
+          When once I am in hell, I've suffered here!
+
+          (Re-enter Carlotta)
+
+ Car.     I can not stay away. This is my place.
+          Here will I catch the first light on his sail.
+          O Charles, dear Charles, to-morrow we shall see him!
+          Look in his noble eyes,--ah me, what eyes!
+          Dost not remember? Talk of him, cousin.
+          It brings him faster to me. My heart! my heart!
+          This waiting breaks it though 'tis but a day!
+          An hour that keeps him from me lengthens like
+          The drawn out ages 'tween the ends of time!
+          But oh, to-morrow! Let me think of that!
+          Then will the small globe of mine eye contain
+          The wide and complete world of my desires!
+          ... Have you forgot Aseffa? You do not speak;
+          But you have not forgot. She said--Oh, cruel!--
+          That he, my Maximilian, should lie cold
+          While yet my arms were warm and reaching for him.
+          How could she say it? But you stood by him--you--
+          His faithful friend. You knew 't would ne'er be true!
+          ... Do you remember, Charles, the winter day
+          He climbed to Valtelina's ice-bound huts
+          To bear the starving people food?
+
+ Char.                                      Yes--yes!
+          'Tis my sole virtue to remember his!
+
+ Car.     And when the flooding Ambro left her banks,
+          Rolling a very sea o'er farm and town,
+          Who was the first to ride the dangerous waves,
+          A rescuing angel saving man and child?
+
+ Char.    'Twas Maximilian!
+
+ Car.                       Yes, our Maximilian.
+          I feared the Mexicans would take his life.
+          Was not that foolish, cousin? I should have known
+          God could not spare him from His world. Hast heard
+          The men of Licio tell how he was first
+          To bring them aid when all their silkworms died
+          And silence struck the looms that gave them food?
+          This man will say 'I have a son alive
+          Because of Maximilian!' And that will say
+          'I have a daughter now to tend my age,
+          Because the Lombard governor brought bread
+          Unto her cradle.'... And he is coming back.
+          ... Beautiful Miramar! We'll never leave thee,
+          Though stars should beckon to a golden world!
+          To-morrow he'll come! Maximilian!
+
+                                            (Holds out her arms
+          toward the sea, looking radiantly into distance)
+
+                                            Charles!
+          (Turns suddenly, laying her hand on his arm)
+          Look! What men are those? Do you not see them?
+
+ Char.    There's nothing, cousin,--nothing but the sea.
+
+ Car.     Oh, look! They wear the Mexican dress!
+
+ Char.                                            Come in,
+          Sweet princess!
+
+ Car.                     Ah yes, they're Mexicans.
+
+ Char.                                              Come!
+          You've had some fever. 'Tis a sick-room vision.
+
+ Car.     No, no! I'm well! Ah, never in such health!
+          I see like God! O look! A score of them!
+          Moving but silent as death! Where are they marching?
+          The sun gleams on their guns! O see, Charles, see!
+          There is a prisoner! Poor man! poor man!
+          I can not see his face. He walks most sadly,--
+          And proudly too! An upright soul, I know!
+
+ Char.    Dear cousin, come away!
+
+ Car.                             He's humbly dressed,
+          And but for that I'd think he might be royal,
+          Ah, royal as Maximilian! O Charles,
+          I am so glad he's safe upon the sea!
+          Safe--safe--and coming to me!
+
+ Char.    (Most pleadingly)             Come, wait within,
+          Dear princess! Come!
+
+ Car.                           I will not leave him! No!
+          The poor, sad prisoner! Those cruel weapons!
+          I fear--I fear--he is condemned to die.
+          ... Perhaps he has a wife. Ah me, I pray not.
+          Then would be tears! He is a noble man,--
+          But still his face is from me.... They reach the field.
+          The soldiers halt and lift their guns. O how they gleam!
+          ... I can not see.... Why is the face so dim?
+          Will no one save him? Let us pray for him!
+          We can do that! Down on our knees and pray!
+          O men, men, men! What sin beneath the sun
+          Can give excuse for such a deed as this?
+          O, Heaven, are you looking too? A man
+          So noble! Oh, he turns--he turns--his breast
+          Is to the weapons! Now they fire! He falls!
+          His face! (Gives a wild cry) Oh God! 'tis Maximilian!
+
+          (Falls forward on her face)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+THE POET
+
+
+  ACT I.
+
+    SCENE 1. Helen's room, Truelord house, New York.
+
+
+  ACT II.
+
+    SCENE 1. Exterior of Clemm cottage, near Richmond.
+
+
+  ACT III.
+
+    SCENE 1. Interior of Clemm cottage.
+    SCENE 2. The Same.
+
+
+  ACT IV.
+
+    SCENE 1. An old book store, New York.
+    SCENE 2. Poe's cottage, Fordham.
+
+
+  ACT V.
+
+    SCENE 1. Poe's lodging, Baltimore.
+    SCENE 2. A bar-room.
+
+
+
+
+CHARACTERS
+
+
+  EDGAR ALLAN POE
+  VIRGINIA CLEMM
+  MRS. MARIA CLEMM
+  HELEN TRUELORD
+  MRS. TRUELORD
+  ROGER BRIDGMORE
+  NELSON CLEMM
+  MRS. DELORMIS
+  DOCTOR BARLOW
+  MRS. SCHMIDT
+  GEORGE THOMAS, Barkeeper
+  HAINES, JUGGERS, SHARP, BLACK, gamblers
+  BOOKSELLER
+  MUM ZURIE, TAT, BONY, servants at Clemm cottage.
+
+  Gertrude, Mabel, Annie, Sallie, Dora, Gladys, Ethel, Alma, Allie,
+    friends of Virginia.
+
+
+
+
+THE POET
+
+
+
+
+ACT I.
+
+
+Scene: Room in the Truelord House. Helen lies on a couch before
+large windows, rear, reading by light from a small lamp on table
+near couch. She wears a loose robe over night-dress.
+
+A light knock is heard at door, left centre.
+
+ Hel.     (Sitting up) Mamma?
+
+ Voice.   Yes, dear.
+
+ Hel.     (Kissing book and closing it) Good-bye, my poet! (Drops
+          book on couch and goes to door)
+
+ Voice, as Helen opens door.
+          I saw your light. (Enter Mrs. Truelord) Forgive me,
+          love. I could not rest. (Helen is closing door) No!
+          Kate is coming.
+
+ Mrs. Delormis. (In door) Yes, I'm here, too, Helen.
+
+ Hel.     Come in, Cousin Catherine.
+
+          (All three advance)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Madela had a feminine version of the
+          jim-jams--tea-nerves, you know--so must get
+          us both up.
+
+ Hel.     (Drawing forward a huge chair for Mrs. Truelord while Mrs.
+          Delormis takes a smaller one) I was not in bed.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Looking toward bed in alcove, right) But you have
+          been! You could not sleep either. Ah!
+
+          (Sighs deeply)
+
+ Hel.     (Goes to couch) Now, mamma!
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Embarrassed by Helen's straightforward look)
+          Helen--I--I've just got to have it out to-night. You are
+          only my step-daughter, but I've loved you like my own.
+
+ Hel.     (Quaintly) Yes.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          Haven't I always treated you as if you were my
+          daughter born?
+
+ Hel.     (Slowly) You have indeed!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          And I can't bear for you to--to--O, I just can't bear
+          it, I say!
+
+ Hel.     Bear what, mamma?
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          This--this man--
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Edgar Poe, Helen.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          You are going to give up Roger--Roger who has
+          worshipped you since you were a baby, who has lived under
+          the same roof and been a brother to you since you were two
+          years old--you are going to give him up for a strange
+          man--a man without a penny--a man you have seen but
+          once--(Almost shrieking)--but once--(Rising)
+
+ Hel.     (Crosses, and stands before her, speaking calmly) We know
+          angels at first sight, mamma.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Grabbing Helen by the shoulders and staring at her)
+          You have done it already! (Falls to chair as if fainting)
+
+ Hel.     Soothe her, Catherine. I will get some wine. (Exit)
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Sitting up, at once recovered) She's made up her
+          mind. When her eyes shine like that it's no use to argue.
+          And all of Roger's fortune in Mr. Truelord's hands! We've
+          considered it a family resource for years!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          What a fool Roger was to bring Edgar Poe to the house!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          He's crazy about the man. Says he's a genius, and all
+          that stuff.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, he is. But to introduce him to a girl like
+          Helen! They'll be off before morning!
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          Oh-h! Don't, Kate! Roger actually wants me to ask him
+          to stay in the house.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Idiot! He deserves to lose her.... But your guest!
+          (Laughs) Poor Madela! How he would upset your nice,
+          comfortable theories of life! Why, you couldn't hand him a
+          cup of tea without feeling the planet quake.
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          But what are we to do? Kate, you _must_ help me.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I'm going to. You can't tell her father, because Helen
+          must be persuaded, not opposed. And don't speak about the
+          money. If she loved a beggar she would trudge barefoot
+          behind him.
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Despairingly) O, don't I know it?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Now you leave this to me, Madela. I will say a few
+          things to Helen about meeting Mr. Poe in Europe--and--you
+          know--
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Kissing her violently) O, Kate! Tell her all--and
+          more, if necessary! Don't think about your reputation if
+          you can save Roger's fortune--
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Sh!--
+
+          (Enter Helen, with wine and a glass)
+
+ Mrs. Tru. (Feebly) Thank you, dear, but I'm better now. (Rising)
+          I'll try to rest. (Goes to door)
+
+ Hel.     I would see you to your room, mamma, but I'm sure you
+          would rather have Catherine. (Mrs. Delormis makes no
+          move to go)
+
+ Mrs. Tru.
+          O, I am quite well--I mean--I need no one--no one at
+          all! Goodnight, my dears! (Exit)
+
+ Hel.     (Politely) And is there anything which you must have out
+          to-night, cousin Catherine?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Sit down, Helen. (Helen takes a chair) You have never
+          loved me, but I have always had a warm heart for you,
+          little girl. And you will take a warning from me in good
+          part, won't you?
+
+ Hel.     A good warning, yes.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I told you about meeting Mr. Poe last summer in
+          Normandy. But--I did not tell you how often I met him.
+          (Helen rises, then Mrs. Delormis rises) Helen, I prove my
+          love for you by saying what it is so hard to utter to your
+          pure self. My life has not been--all you would wish it to
+          be--and Mr. Poe knows more about it than any other man.
+
+ Hel.     You lie! I have seen his soul!
+
+          (She goes to door and opens it for Mrs. Delormis to pass
+          out. Mrs. Delormis sweeps through with an attempt at
+          majesty)
+
+ Hel.     (Motionless with clenched hands) Wicked, wicked woman!...
+          (Goes to window, rear, opens it, draws long breaths as if
+          stifling, and turns back into room) Edgar! My love! I was
+          a thing of clay. One look from your eyes has made me a
+          being of fire and air.... (Lies down on couch and takes up
+          her book) ... I can not read ... or sleep ... or pray.
+          There's too much whirling in my heart for prayer....
+          (Starts) What moan is that?... (Rises, takes light from
+          table, goes to window, leans out, casting the rays down)
+          Nothing.... I'm fanciful.... The moon is rising. (Goes
+          back, putting light on table) O, Edgar! God help me to be
+          what love must be to thee. Love that can look on miracles
+          and be sane. What a face when he said goodnight! Like an
+          angel's whose immortality is his wound.... Poor Roger!...
+          What will my father say?... (Moonlight floods the window)
+          Welcome, soft nurse of dreams! (Extinguishes lamp) A
+          little rest.... Ah, I know _he_ does not sleep.... (She
+          lies on couch in the moonlight, her eyes closed. Poe
+          enters by window, gazes at her, and throws up his arms in
+          gesture of prayer)
+
+ Hel.     (Looking up, and springing to her feet) Edgar! My God, you
+          must not come here!
+
+ Poe.     Is this love's welcome?
+
+ Hel.     Go! go!
+
+ Poe.     I was dying out there.
+
+ Hel.     Leave me!
+
+ Poe.     Life was passing from my veins. Only your eyes could draw
+          back the ebbing flood.
+
+ Hel.     I will light the lamp! (Turns hastily)
+
+ Poe.     And put out Heaven's! (She drops her hand)
+
+ Hel.     Go, O go at once!
+
+ Poe.     Again I am alone! The twin angel who put her hand in mine
+          is flown!
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, be calm!
+
+ Poe.     Calm! With such a look from you burning me as if I were a
+          devil to be branded? Such words from you hissing like
+          snakes through my brain?
+
+ Hel.     O, I beg you--
+
+ Poe.     I would but touch the hand that soothes my blood--look in
+          the eyes that wrap my soul in balm--and you cry out as
+          though some barbarous infidel had trampled you at prayers!
+
+ Hel.     My father--Roger--they will not understand.
+
+ Poe.     O, you would bring the world in to say how and when we
+          shall love! Take note of the hour, and kiss by the clock!
+          Great love is like death, Helen. It knows no time of day.
+          If a man were dying at your gates would you keep from him
+          because 'twas midnight and not noon, and you were robed
+          for sleep? It was your soul I sought. Must you array that
+          to receive me? O, these women! On Resurrection day they'll
+          not get up unless their clothes are called with them from
+          the dust! 'Excuse me, God, and send a dressmaker!' Ha! ha!
+          ha! (Walks the floor in maniac humor)
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, for love's sake hear me!
+
+ Poe.     Speak loud if you would drown the winds!
+
+ Hel.     Listen!
+
+ Poe.     (Turning upon her) If my body bled at your feet you would
+          stoop to me, but when my spirit lies in flames you cry
+          'Don't writhe! Don't be a spectacle!'
+
+ Hel.     (Putting her hands on his shoulders and speaking steadily)
+          The spirit does not murmur. Only the body cries.
+
+ Poe.     (Calming) Forgive me, Helen!
+
+ Hel.     Yes, love. (Draws him to couch and sits by him soothingly)
+          ... O, your forehead is on fire.
+
+ Poe.     No wonder, when I have just come out of hell.... Keep your
+          cool hand over my eyes.... O, this is peace!... (Takes her
+          hand from his forehead and holds it) I made you a song out
+          there, in the darkness. I was fainting for one gleam of
+          light when you opened the window and stood as beautiful as
+          Psyche leaning to the god of love. Listen ... and believe
+          that my heart was as pure as the lines. (Sings softly)
+
+                  Helen, thy beauty is to me
+                    Like those Nicean barks of yore
+                  That gently o'er a perfumed sea
+                    The weary, wayworn wanderer bore
+                    To his own native shore.
+
+                  On desperate seas long wont to roam,
+                    Thy hyacinth hair, thy classic face,
+                  Thy Naiad airs, have brought me home
+                    To the glory that was Greece
+                  And the grandeur that was Rome.
+
+                  Lo, in yon brilliant window-niche
+                    How statue-like I see thee stand,
+                    An agate lamp within thy hand,--
+                  Ah! Psyche, from the regions which
+                    Are holy-land!
+
+          (Drops his head to her hand and kisses it gently)
+
+ Hel.     Edgar, my life shall be my song to thee. (They are silent
+          for a second. His hand touches her book)
+
+ Poe.     A book! Who could write for such an hour? (Holds book in
+          moonlight) Shelley! Lark of the world! You would know!...
+          You will give me this book, Helen?
+
+ Hel.     It is precious. You will love it?
+
+ Poe.     Always! (Kisses book, and puts it inside his coat. Taking
+          her hand) O, all our life shall be a happy wonder! Wilt
+          lie with me on summer hills where pipings of dim Arcady
+          fall like Apollo's mantle on the soul? Dost know that
+          silence full of thoughts?--and then the swelling earth--the
+          throbbing heaven? Canst be a pulse in Nature's very body?
+          (Leaping up) Take forests in thy arms, and feel the little
+          leaf-veins beat thy blood?
+
+ Hel.     (Rising) Yes--yes--I know. Come to the window, love. The
+          soft Spring air begins to stir.
+
+          (They move to window)
+
+ Poe.     O, what a night! 'Tis like a poem flowing to the sea. Here
+          I shake death from my garments. Oh, had my soul a tongue
+          to trumpet thought, men from yon planets now would stare
+          and lean to earth with listening ears!... Hark! 'Tis
+          music!
+
+ Hel.     (Looking down) A serenade.
+
+ Poe.     Canst call it that? I hear nothing that comes not from the
+          stars. 'Tis Israfel! The angel whose lute is his own
+          heart!
+
+                    If I could dwell
+                    Where Israfel
+                      Hath dwelt, and he where I,
+                    He might not sing so wildly well
+                  A mortal melody,
+                    While a bolder note than his might swell
+                      From my lyre within the sky!
+
+          Some day we shall live there, Helen, and then I will sing
+          to thee!
+
+ Hel.     But now--my love--you must rest--you must sleep.
+
+ Poe.     Sleep! Nothing sleeps but mortality!
+
+ Hel.     And you are mortal, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     I! Nay, thy love has given me kinship with the deities!
+          Sleep? Ay, when Nature naps, and God looks for a bed! When
+          yonder moon forgets her starry whirl and nodding falls
+          from heaven! When Ocean's giant pulse is weary and grows
+          still! When Earth heaves up no seasons with their buds!
+          No, no, we will not sleep! But see--there gleams the
+          river--and yonder rise the hills touched new with Spring!
+          Wilt go there with me, Helen? Now!
+
+ Hel.     Now?
+
+ Poe.     To-night!
+
+ Hel.     To-night?
+
+ Poe.     Why not? You say it as though night and day were not the
+          same to the soul--except that night is more beautiful! Why
+          not go?
+
+ Hel.     I will tell you, love. (Drawing him back to the large
+          chair) Come, listen. (She sits in chair, and he kneels by
+          her, the moonlight covering them) Because I love you more
+          than you love beauty, God or night, and you must live for
+          me. And to live means--rest--sleep--
+
+ Poe.     Do you love me so much? O, 'tis like cool waters falling
+          about me to hear you say it.
+
+ Hel.     I will help you, Edgar. Already I feel my strength. Where
+          I may serve you I'll not meekly go, but go exultant. The
+          thorns and stones so harsh to human feet, I'll press as
+          they were buds, and leave my blood for kisses.
+
+ Poe.     Oh, go on.
+
+ Hel.     Yes, I've more to tell you. It is--that you must help me,
+          too. To-day--before you looked at me the first time--I was
+          dying. Ah, more,--I was about to set the seal of death on
+          my soul. My mother, who died at sea when I was born, gave
+          me a heritance with winds and waves and stars. But I was
+          nursed by hands through whose clay ran no immortal
+          streams. Cradled in convention, fed on sophistries, I wove
+          a shroud about my soul, and within that hardening
+          chrysalis it was dying away when you called it forth in
+          time to live--dear God, in time to live! Now you see how
+          much you are to me, Edgar. I must not lose you. But you
+          must be careful and patient with me, for my newly-bared
+          soul shrinks from the wonders so familiar to you, and I
+          may fly back to my chrysalis to escape the pain.
+
+ Poe.     I am not afraid. Would a mother leave her babe? And I am a
+          child now, Helen. This strange, new rest you give me is
+          like a gentle birth. I have been old all my life. Now the
+          longing comes for a little of the childhood that was never
+          mine. The years fall from me, and I have no wish but to
+          lie on a mother's bosom and hear her voice prattling above
+          me.
+
+ Hel.     (Archly, leaning over him as he sits at her feet) Does my
+          little boy want a story?
+
+ Poe.     (Smiling) About the fairies, mama?
+
+ Hel.     About the fairies--and a big giant--and a little girl lost
+          in a wood--
+
+ Poe.     And a little boy too?
+
+ Hel.     Yes, a little boy, too! And the little girl was crying--
+
+ Poe.     And the little boy found her?
+
+ Hel.     Yes, and he told her not to cry, that he could kill the
+          big giant, and he hid the little girl in a cave--
+
+ Poe.     Was it a dark cave, mama?
+
+ Hel.     No-_o-o_! It was a cave--with--windows in it! And by and
+          by he heard the giant coming--
+
+ Poe.     Oh! (Hides his face on her breast. She holds him to her,
+          her hands on his hair) And when the little boy heard the
+          leaves rustling closer and closer he climbed a great
+          tree--
+
+ Poe.     (Lifting his head) But he wasn't afraid, mama?
+
+ Hel.     O, _no-o_!
+
+ Poe.     Because that little boy was me!
+
+ Hel.     Yes. And when you got to the top of the tree--
+
+ Poe.     O, what did I do then?
+
+ Hel.     Why, you see this was the biggest giant that _e-v-e-r_
+          lived--and his head was just as high as the top of the
+          tree--so when he came by--
+
+ Poe.     I know! I know! I just out with my sword, and off went his
+          head!
+
+ Hel.     So it did! And then you climbed down from the tree--
+
+ Poe.     And the little girl came out of the cave--
+
+ Hel.     And you went off together happy ever after!
+
+ Poe.     What was that little girl's name, mama?
+
+ Hel.     Why, I don't think you ever told me that, did you?
+
+ Poe.     I was just thinking--
+
+ Hel.     What, darling?
+
+ Poe.     That I wish you weren't my mama, so you could be that
+          little girl!
+
+ Hel.     O, I can, dear. For there were the fairies. We forgot the
+          fairies. They gave me this pretty ring, so that when I put
+          it on I can be whoever I please, and I please to be just
+          whoever my little boy likes best.
+
+ Poe.     (Rises, and speaks in his own manner) Madonna, Oh,
+          Madonna! You will save me. (Kisses her forehead)
+          Good-night. To-morrow I will tell you about my work--our
+          work. There are miracles yet to be. And Poesy shall speak
+          them.
+
+ Hel.     But do not try to write out all your soul, Edgar. That
+          cannot be. Poetry is but one gate. The soul goes out by a
+          thousand ways.
+
+ Poe.     True. And we will find those ways together, Helen. We will
+          gather truth in every path,--truth that flowers out of the
+          struggle and carnage of life like the bloom of song on the
+          crimson of war.
+
+ Hel.     But we may not know all. Man's greatest knowledge is but
+          the alphabet of the eternal book. We must be content with
+          the letters, and not unhappily strive to read.
+
+ Poe.     I will remember. But what mortal can attain shall be mine.
+          Already thoughts that fled my agony come to me as gently
+          as the alighting of birds. Truths open about me like the
+          unfolding of roses yet warm with God's secret. Good-night.
+          (Takes her hand) I am not the greatest genius, Helen, for
+          I can not stand alone. (Drops her hand and goes to window.
+          Hesitates and turns back) One kiss. (Kisses her) O, look
+          at me! I lose divinity when you close your eyes! Look at
+          me, and I can not fall for Heaven bears me up!
+
+ Hel.     (In sudden alarm) I hear a step!
+
+ Poe.     (Looking at her reproachfully) Listen better, you will
+          hear God's footfall.
+
+ Hel.     Some one is up.
+
+ Poe.     And do you care? Would you put a stain upon this hour?
+          This flower of love blown perfect from the skies?
+
+ Hel.     Ah, it is gone.
+
+ Poe.     (Wildly) O, you will leave me, Helen! You can not stay!
+          For I will play the madman to thy sense when I am sanest,
+          and like a shivering Atlas shake thy world when most thou
+          wouldst be still. This body wraps more lives then one, my
+          girl. When I was born no pitying angel dipped my spirit-fire
+          in Lethe. I weep with all the dead as they my brothers
+          were, and haunt the track of time to shudder with his
+          ghosts. Wilt fare with me, brave Helen? Wilt tread the
+          nadir gloom and golden paths of suns? Canst gaze with me
+          into the fearful, grey infinitude--
+
+ Hel.     That grey infinitude is yet the circle of your being. The
+          mind can not leave itself. You are always in your own
+          country. Why should you fear?
+
+ Poe.     The mind that can not leave itself knows nothing. Not the
+          'I am' but 'Thou art' is God. O, there is a realm of which
+          imagination is but a shadow--where the mind is burnt away
+          in His vision's fire, and thought becomes celestial angel
+          of itself! And you turn back with the first step--already
+          I am alone--
+
+ Hel.     No! I, too, have hung upon the boundaries of the world to
+          catch God's flying dreams! O, trust me! Thou shalt fling
+          no lance but I will cast it on to gleam in a farther sun!
+          Bring me roses from Jupiter, I'll bring thee lilies from
+          Uranus! O,--
+
+ Poe.     Mine, by Heaven! (Catches her to him) Here we'll begin the
+          immortal pilgrimage! We need not wait for death! From
+          world to world--
+
+ Hel.     (Springing from him) It _is_ a step!
+          Go, Edgar! Go!
+
+ Poe.     No! By the god in my bosom, you are mine from this moment!
+
+ Hel.     My father! my father! He will tear me from you--You do not
+          know him!
+
+ Poe.     I know he's mortal. Heaven could not part us. I will not
+          move!
+
+          (He is standing in the window. She hastily draws the
+          curtain before him)
+
+ Hel.     Then keep your word!
+
+          (A knock at the door. Helen is silent)
+
+ Voice.   Helen?
+
+ Hel.     It is you, Roger? Come in.
+
+          (Roger enters, carrying a lamp. Looks about and sees
+          Helen.)
+
+ Rog.     I heard voices.... Who was with you, Helen?... I could not
+          be mistaken.... (puts lamp on a table, and comes nearer
+          Helen.) Look at me, Helen.... I am your brother. Who was
+          here?... I know that Love has laid his mighty hand upon
+          you, but yet you are an angel. I thought--it was--his
+          voice.... Tell me what this means.... _He_ was not here!
+          O, I shall die when I learn that you are but a woman!
+
+ Poe.     (Leaping out) I am here, sir, to defend that lady's honor!
+
+ Rog.     (Staggers back, regains composure, and bows ironically) I
+          rejoice to hear it, sir, for you alone can do it. It is
+          wholly in your keeping. (Turns to go)
+
+ Hel.     Roger!
+
+ Rog.     Madam.
+
+ Hel.     You forsake me?
+
+ Rog.     You have forsaken yourself.
+
+ Hel.     Oh! (Swoons. Poe bends over her wildly affectionate. Roger
+          stands apart, proud and despairing)
+
+ Poe.     Helen! Speak! Speak to me!
+
+ Hel.     Leave me! Leave me!
+
+ Poe.     It is I, Helen! Your lover! Edgar!
+
+ Hel.     You, you, I mean! (Rising) Thou wing of hell across my
+          life! Away from me!
+
+          (Poe stands back speechless with bewilderment. Roger goes
+          to Helen, takes her hand, and leads her from the room)
+
+ Poe.     Lost! lost! lost! (Looks about the room) This place!...
+          O, I was mad to come here!... She will never forgive me!
+          (Falls on the couch and lies motionless. After a moment
+          enter Mrs. Delormis.)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Where is the wild man?... Oh, he has fainted! The
+          wine! (Goes to the table and pours wine)
+
+ Poe.     Oh!
+
+          (Mrs. Delormis turns to him. He rises ceremoniously, with
+          effort) Well?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, indeed! Here I am to your rescue, and you reward
+          me with a 'well' (mimicking) up to ceiling.
+
+ Poe.     What are they saying to her? I must go to her! I must!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Must _not_! Listen! (Grasps his arm to detain him)
+
+ Poe.     (Releasing his arm and bowing stiffly) Mrs. Delormis.
+
+ Mrs. D.  (Copying his manner) Mr. Poe!... Mr. Truelord has not
+          yet been roused. No one will wake him unless you choose
+          to do it yourself by increasing the hubbub. Roger defends
+          you to Mrs. Truelord--says you are ill--out of your
+          senses--and other complimentary things. Both of them
+          are soothing and mothering Helen, and--(dropping into
+          tenderness) I wanted you to have a little mothering, too--
+
+ Poe.     Do you really want to help me?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          O, if you would only let me be your friend!
+
+ Poe.     You may! Stay here with me till she comes! I know she will
+          come. She can not let me go without one word. It would be
+          too terrible. She can not! Stay till she comes. Talk to
+          me. Do not let me think!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          I'll make myself comfortable then, and we'll have a
+          good chat. You know I've been told that I talk my best
+          between two and three in the morning.
+
+          (Takes pillow from couch to make herself cosy in chair)
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch that pillow!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Dropping into chair) Well!
+
+ Poe.     Do not sit in that chair!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Rising) May I stand on the carpet, or shall I take
+          off my slippers before the burning bush of your love?
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me! Don't you see that I have lost her?
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Well, you _were_ out of your senses to come here and
+          think Helen would understand it.
+
+ Poe.     I was not! She did understand! The vision that led me to
+          her feet was as clear as an archangel's! It is now that I
+          am mad, and see everything gross and darkened with earth
+          and flesh! (Overcome, sinks on couch. She hastily brings
+          wine)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Drink it. You must.
+
+ Poe.     No! You offer me hell! And you know it. Put it down. If
+          you want to help me, go to her and bring me one word.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Drink this for me, and I will.
+
+ Poe.     (Taking glass) You will?... No! (Puts glass down)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My dear boy, you are too weak to stand! It's that old
+          habit of not eating. I don't believe you have tasted food
+          for days.
+
+ Poe.     True ... but.... (Faints. Mrs. Delormis gives him wine. He
+          rouses)
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Now will you kill me?
+
+ Poe.     (Brightening) No. You were right. 'Twas what I needed. 'T
+          will keep life in me till she comes. Go to her now. Tell
+          her I will leave her--I will go away for a year--a
+          thousand years--if she will only say I may come back some
+          day. I will live in a desert and pray myself to the bone!
+          Bring me one word from her--a curse--anything!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Pouring wine) A little more of this then, so I shall
+          be sure to find you alive when I return.
+
+ Poe.     (Drinks eagerly) 'Tis life! Life! I've drunk of Cretan
+          wines against whose fragrant tide the Venus-rose poured
+          all her flood in vain, but never thrilled my lips till now
+          with drop so ravishing! And you brought it to me! Helen
+          left me to die ... cruel ... cruel ... cruel.... (Sits on
+          couch, taking his head in his hands. Looks up) Florimel!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My Calidore!
+
+ Poe.     You are a very beautiful devil.
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Pouring wine) Thanks. I'm glad you like my style.
+          (Sips wine) It _is_ good, isn't it?
+
+ Poe.     'Tis an enchantment to pilot grief to new and festal
+          worlds! Another cup! (Drinks) O, 'tis a drink to rouse the
+          drooping soul for warrier quest till on the conquered
+          shores of dream man strides a god!... (Pours another
+          glass) Again? No ... no more!... (Sinks down) O, my bird
+          of Heaven, come quickly, or I am lost!... Florimel!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          My knight of Normandy!
+
+ Poe.     Since we are going to hell let us be merry about it.
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          At last you are sensible.
+
+ Poe.     Wine! wine!
+
+ Mrs. Del. (Holding glass) I mean to have my price for this.
+
+ Poe.     Take my soul!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          Something better--a kiss!
+
+ Poe.     'Tis yours! (Kisses her) Why not? For but a kiss did Jove
+          forsake the skies, and jeopard his high realm!
+
+ Mrs. Del.
+          For but a kiss did Dian leave her throne and waste her
+          goddess dower on shepherd lips! (Sits by him) Now you are
+          going to tell me something. Why did you fly from Normandy,
+          and not a word, not a word to me? Come, my Calidore! Why
+          did you fly from me?
+
+ Poe.     (Momentarily sober) Because--a woman shall never become
+          less holy than God made her through me. (Rises and walks
+          away) Helen ... my amaranth, I may not pluck thee!...
+          (Staggers) One cup more ... one.... (Pours wine, and holds
+          up glass apostrophizing as Roger and Helen enter unnoticed)
+          O, little ruby ocean that can drown all mortal sighs! Call
+          buried hope to put life's garland on, and limping woes to
+          trip like Nereids on a moonlit shore! For thee, frail
+          sickness casts her pallid chrysalis and blooms a rosy
+          angel! For thee, Death breaks his scythe and owns Life
+          conqueror! (Drinks) Were this Antonius' cup.... Ha! Are
+          you there, my devil? Another kiss, sweetheart! (Throws
+          his arm about Mrs. Delormis. Helen cries out. Poe turns
+          and faces her)
+
+ Hel.     (To Poe, speaking slowly and mechanically) I came, sir, to
+          ask you to forgive me. (Turns to Roger) It is to you,
+          Roger, that I make my plea.
+
+          (Poe looks at her helplessly, then understands, and with a
+          terrible face, turns and leaps through the open window.
+          Helen, with a sob, droops, and Roger takes her in his
+          arms)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT II.
+
+
+Scene: Lawn in front of Clemm cottage, near Richmond. Bony and Tat
+on a side porch shelling peas.
+
+ Tat.     Sho' Mars Edgah come in good time! Pea-vines jes a hangin'
+          low, an' sweet as honey!
+
+ Bony.    Mars Edgah hab peas ebry day wha' he came f'om! Big city
+          hab ebryting!
+
+ Tat.     Dey can't hab ebryting when it don' grow!
+
+ Bony.    Sho', dey hab it when it don' grow same lak when he do
+          grow!
+
+ Tat.     You nebah did hab no sense!
+
+ Bony.    I ain't got no sense? Take dat, Tatermally Clemm! (Strikes
+          at her. They scuffle and bring Zurie to side door)
+
+ Zu.      Dem chillun' jes kill me! Why de Lawd make ol' Zurie bring
+          dem two twins to dis heah worl' she nebah could tell! Dey
+          haint shell 'nuf fo' a hummin' bird's stomach, an' de pot
+          bilin' mad fo' 'm dis minute! Wha' yo' do, yo' black
+          niggahs? Come in heah! I make yo' sit still an' do nuffin'
+          an' yo' ol' mammy wu'kin' hussef to def! (Picks up basket
+          and drives children into the kitchen. Calls after them
+          beamingly) Wha' yo' reckon yo' ol' mammy cookin' in dat
+          ubbin fo' two little no 'count niggahs?
+
+ Children. (Within, scampering with delight) Cherry cobblah!
+          Cherry cobblah!
+
+ Zu.      (Shutting the door) Don' want dat wind blowin' on my poun'
+          cake! It'll fall sho'!
+
+          (Virginia comes out at the front door of cottage, and
+          walks across the lawn to the shade of a bay tree where Poe
+          lies in a hammock as if asleep. A book on the ground. She
+          goes up softly and sits on a garden chair near him. He
+          opens his eyes)
+
+ Vir.     O, I have waked you!
+
+ Poe.     No, little houri. I was not asleep. I would not give one
+          breath of this sweet world to cold, unconscious sleep.
+
+ Vir.     You are happy, cousin Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     No, Virginia. This is all too delicious to be called
+          happiness. Too calm, like the stilling of a condor's wings
+          above sea-guarding peaks. He flies when he is happy. When
+          more than happy, it is enough to pause in the blue and
+          breathe wonders.
+
+ Vir.     Is it wonderful here, Edgar? It has always seemed so to
+          me, but I have been afraid to tell anyone. It seems like a
+          great fairy house with God in it. Is it wonderful, cousin?
+
+ Poe.     _You_ are wonderful.
+
+ Vir.     O, no, no, no! I want to tell you too, Edgar, I have never
+          felt that I quite belong here. It is all too good for
+          me--so beautiful, and I am not beautiful.
+
+ Poe.     (Rising) Why, my little aspiring Venus, let me tell you
+          something. I have wandered somewhat in life--at home and
+          over sea--and I have never looked upon a woman fairer than
+          yourself.
+
+ Vir.     (Springing up in delight) O, I am so happy! You would not
+          flatter me! You are the soul of truth!
+
+ Poe.     It is no flattery, little maid, as the world will soon
+          teach you.
+
+ Vir.     I have nothing to do with that world, Edgar. My world is
+          the circuit of our mocking-bird's wing. O, where is he?
+          (Calls) Freddy! Freddy! He is not near or he would come.
+          But he never goes farther than the orchard. Freddy!... He
+          has not sung to me this morning. You haven't heard his
+          finest song yet. O, 'tis sweeter than--
+
+ Poe.     (Picking up book) Than Spenser?
+
+ Vir.     Yes--than Spenser. Though he makes music too, and we were
+          just coming to the siren's song. Shall I read?
+
+ Poe.     Do! I knew not how to love him till he warbled from your
+          tongue.
+
+ Vir.     'Tis where the mermaid calls the knight.
+
+          (Reads)
+
+                  O, thou fair son of gentle faery,
+                  That art in mighty arms most magnifyde
+                  Above all knights that ever battle tried,
+                  O, turn thy rudder hetherward awhile!
+                  Here may the storm-bett vessel safely ride;
+                  This is the port of ease from troublous toil,
+                  The world's sweet inn from pain and wearisome turmoyle!
+
+ Poe.     No more--no more!
+
+ Vir.     Why, cousin?
+
+ Poe.     I shall have the water about my ears presently. I thought
+          I was drowning on a mermaid's bosom. Read no more,
+          Virginia. One nibble at a time is enough of Spenser. He
+          ought to be made into a thousand little poems. Then we
+          should have a multitude of gems instead of a great granite
+          mountain that nobody can circuit without weariness.
+
+ Vir.     You know so much, Edgar. Will you teach me while you are
+          here, if I try very hard to learn?
+
+ Poe.     (Plucking a flower) My little girl, what lore would you
+          teach this bud? God makes some people so. Be happy that
+          you are a beautiful certainty and not a struggling
+          possibility.
+
+ Vir.     But the rose has no soul, Edgar--no heart, as I have. It
+          does not sigh to see you look so pale, and read these
+          lines of suffering here, (touching his brow) but I--it
+          kills me, cousin! (He hides his face) Forgive me! O, I am
+          so unkind!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm comes out of cottage and crosses to them. She
+          gently takes Poe's hand from his face and kisses him)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear boy!
+
+ Poe.     (Seizing her hand and holding it) Don't--don't be so kind
+          to me, aunt! It tells too much of what has never been
+          mine. Curious interest--passing friendship--love born in a
+          flash and dead in an hour--these I have had, while my
+          heart was crying from its depths for the firmly founded
+          love that shakes but with the globe itself.
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Taking his head on her breast) My dear Edgar! You will
+          be my son--Virginia's brother!
+
+ Poe.     (Lifting his face smiling) I _will_ be happy! No more of
+          that solitude lighted only by the eyes of ghouls! Here I
+          have come into the light. I have found the sun. I see what
+          my work should be--what Art is. She is beauty and joy. Her
+          light should fall on life like morning on the hills. The
+          clouds of passion and agony should never darken her face.
+          O, I can paint her now ready for the embrace of the soul!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I can not see things with your rapturous eyes, Edgar,
+          but I know that your work will be noble, and I love you.
+
+ Poe.     O, aunt, you and this little wonder-witch have enchanted
+          me back to happiness. I promise you never again shall you
+          see a tear on my face or a frown on my brow. (Virginia,
+          looking toward the road, bows as to some one passing)
+
+ Poe.     Blushing, cousin? Who is worth such a rosy flag? (Stands
+          up and looks down the road) Brackett! I do believe!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You know him, Edgar? He is staying with my
+          brother-in-law, Nelson Clemm, for a short time, and has
+          asked to call on us--on Virginia, I mean, for of course I
+          don't count, now that my little girl is suddenly turned
+          woman.
+
+ Poe.     Don't for Heaven's sake!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You don't like him, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     Like him! We were at West Point together. He refused to
+          accept a challenge after slandering me vilely, and I was
+          obliged to thrash him. That's all. (Turns suddenly to
+          Virginia) And you were blushing for him!
+
+ Vir.     It was not because I like him, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     (Looking into her eyes) You are a wise little piece.
+
+ Mrs. C.  This is painful, Edgar. Of course he must not call.
+
+ Poe.     Call! Let him but look toward the house again, and I'll
+          give him a drubbing that will make him forget the first
+          one! The coward! He wouldn't meet me--after--
+
+ Vir.     How about the frowns, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     (Smiling) Let him go!
+
+ Mrs. C.  You should not make such bitter enemies at the beginning
+          of life, my boy.
+
+ Poe.     He can not touch me. He is not of my world.
+
+ Mrs. C.  We are all of one world, Edgar, and never know when we
+          may lap fortunes with our foes. Mr. Brackett is going into
+          literature too.
+
+ Poe.     Yes. The trade and barter part of it. I shall be in the
+          holy temple while he keeps a changer's table on the steps.
+          (Shrugging) Brackett! Pah!... But goodbye for half an
+          hour. I'm going to the orchard to take counsel with the
+          birds on my new philosophy. (Starts away) Come, (turning
+          to Virginia) my mocking bird, there won't be a quorum
+          without you! (Virginia goes to him. Zurie puts her head
+          out of a window and calls.)
+
+ Mum Zurie.
+          Mars Nelson comin' up de lane!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Come back, Virginia, you must see your uncle. Edgar,
+          won't you wait and meet him?
+
+ Poe.     Thank you aunt, but I don't think it would give him any
+          pleasure. (Exit)
+
+ Vir.     (Coming back reluctantly) O mama, we _will_ make him
+          happy!
+
+ Mrs. C.  We'll try, my dear. But you must get ready for the picnic.
+          The girls will be here soon. Is Edgar going with you?
+
+ Vir.     No, mother. He said he would go to a picnic only with
+          nymphs and naiads.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Here is uncle.
+
+          (Enter, from the road, Nelson Clemm)
+
+ Mr. C.   How d' do, Maria! Howdy, girl! Go get your hat.
+
+ Mrs. C.  What now, Nelson?
+
+ Mr. C.   Nothin'. Only I'm tired o' foolin' and talkin' about that
+          girl's education. I've come to take her this time.
+
+ Vir.     To send me to school?
+
+ Mr. C.   High time, ain't it? I couldn't make up my mind before
+          whether 'twas to be the seminary at Bowville or Maryburg.
+          But I had a letter this morning which settled it for
+          Bowville. Suits me exactly--suits me _exactly_. So get
+          your hat and come along. I drove across the ridge and left
+          my trap at Judge Carroll's.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Her clothes, Nelson! There's nothing ready--
+
+ Mr. C.   You mean to say! When we've been talkin' this thing a
+          whole year? And you a thrifty woman tell me her clothes
+          ain't ready? Well, she'll come without 'em, that's all.
+          You can send 'em along afterwards. I've got it all
+          fixed up, I tell you. My brother's child shall have her
+          chance--she shall have her chance, so long as I've got
+          a dollar in my pocket and she walks exactly to please
+          me--walks _exactly_ to please me. It's for you to say,
+          Maria, whether you'll stand in the way o' your own flesh
+          and blood or not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Of course, Nelson, I am very grateful, and do not dream
+          of depriving Virginia of this opportunity, only--
+
+ Mr. C.   That's all there is to it then. No onlys about it. Go get
+          your hat, girl. (Virginia goes slowly into the house. At
+          the door she meets Zurie who turns back and goes in with
+          her)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Now, Nelson?
+
+ Mr. C.   It's just this. My brother's child shan't stay another
+          hour in the same house with Edgar Poe. That's the plain
+          tale of it, Maria.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nelson Clemm!
+
+ Mr. C.   O, I've been hearin' things--I've been hearin'! He didn't
+          cover all his tracks at West Point--or New York either!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Lies! All lies! Every one of them! He is the soul of
+          honor! Already Virginia loves him like a brother! I trust
+          her instinct! I trust my own!
+
+ Mr. C.   O, I'm not arguin', I'm just doin'. You can't turn him
+          out, of course. Wouldn't do it myself. Nobody'll ever say
+          Nelse Clemm was an inhospitable dog! But I can look out
+          for Virginia, and I will. She goes with me now, or I'm
+          done with you and yours--and you know that mortgage ain't
+          paid off yet.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, she shall go. She ought to be in school and again
+          I thank you for helping us. But you are wronging my
+          nephew,--one of the noblest of men. You don't know him!
+
+ Mr. C.   It's plain enough _you_ don't!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Has Mr. Brackett--
+
+ Mr. C.   Mr. Brackett is a guest in my house. Now, Maria, say what
+          you please. (Virginia comes out of cottage carrying a
+          small satchel) That's a good girl! We'll fix up a fine
+          trunk and send it after her, won't we, mother?
+
+ Vir.     (Putting her arms about her mother's neck) He--wasn't in
+          the orchard, mama. Won't you say goodbye to him for me?
+
+ Mr. C.   Come, come now! (Leads her away) Don't worry, Maria. I'll
+          drive you over to Bowville every Sunday Doctor Barlow
+          doesn't preach. (Half turning) By the by, I saw him down
+          the lane at the widow Simson's. Reckon he'll be along here
+          pretty soon. Seems to be on his widow's route to-day. Good
+          morning! (Exeunt)
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Looking after them) I shall go to her myself to-morrow.
+          My little daughter! A stately woman now, but always my
+          little daughter! (Starts into the house, pausing on steps)
+          Poor Edgar! How he is misjudged! (Goes in)
+
+          (Zurie, Tat following, comes out of the side door and sets
+          to work digging up a shrub)
+
+ Zu.      (Muttering) Wha' Mis' Clemm gwine ter say ter all dem
+          young ladies comin' heah fo' de picnic? An' who gwine ter
+          eat dem pies Zurie been two days makin'? An' sech a poun'
+          cake! It ought to be a weddin' cake, deed it ought! (Bony
+          comes out of kitchen with a knife in his hand) Heah,
+          niggah, gimme up dat knife an' don' be so slow-back! Dis
+          heah bush done grow an' bloom till yo' get heah!
+
+          (Enter Poe, left, singing)
+
+                  Old winter is a lie
+                    As every spring doth prove,
+                  And care is born to die
+                    If we but let in love--
+
+          Hey Mum Zurie, what are you doing?
+
+ Zu.      I's diggin', honey.
+
+ Poe.     That rosebay is the most graceful shrub in the yard. You
+          kill one leaf of it, if you dare!
+
+ Zu.      Miss Virginia she say how her bru'r Edgah lub dis heah
+          tree, an' she want it under her window.
+
+ Poe.     Oh! Can't I help you, Zurie? Tenderly now!
+
+ Zu.      Miss Babylam' ax me to move it yistiddy but I don't git no
+          time, an' I ain' gwine to leab it now jes cause she's gone
+          away.
+
+ Poe.     Gone away?
+
+ Zu.      O Lawd, I forgot you don' know! Why, honey, Mars Nelson he
+          come jes now an' frisk her off to school. Zip! an'
+          Babylam' gone! An' law, ef you seen dat po' chile cryin'!
+
+ Poe.     She cried, Zurie?
+
+ Zu.      Deed she did, and she ax me twenty hundred times to tell
+          her bru'r Edgah goodbye.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia gone?
+
+ Zu.      I done tol' yo, Mars Edgah! Sho' yo' don't think ol' Zurie
+          know how ter tell lies, does yo', honey?
+
+ Poe.     No, Zurie, I know she is gone. The birds have all stopped
+          singing.
+
+ Zu.      Law, Mars Edgah, dey jes be a chipperin'! Heah dat now?
+
+ Poe.     That is not a song, Zurie. It is a wail from Stygian
+          boughs.
+
+ Zu.      O, yo' go way!
+
+ Poe.     Gone! I'll not permit it! My aunt must bring her back!
+          (Hurries into house)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' make him ac' so now? An' wha' make Miss Babylam' cry
+          hussef sick when she's gwine away ter be a fine lady? Mars
+          Nelson he mighty good to gib her eddication, but true fo'
+          sho he might jes' well gib it to my Tatermally fer all de
+          thanks he's gittin'. Ol' Zurie reckon it a sin to cry ober
+          de goodness ob God!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm and Poe come out of cottage, both disturbed)
+
+ Poe.     But, aunt, how are we going to live without her?
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear Edgar, we must not let our affections root so
+          deep in mortal things.
+
+ Poe.     Mortal? Virginia mortal! She is a sister to Psyche,
+          immortal as the breath that blew her into beauteous bloom!
+
+ Mrs. C.  While I am glad, my son, to see you so devoted to your
+          sister--
+
+ Poe.     Sister! Thank Heaven she is not my sister! Aunt, Virginia
+          must be my wife!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Bewildered) Are you mad, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     No. Sane at last. I have been mad until now. I have drunk
+          loneliness and death. Here I breathe, grateful, glad as a
+          flower! My breast swells and falls as a bird's throat with
+          happy song! O, aunt, help me to accept this fair new
+          life--the only real life! Do not drive me back to gloom
+          and the devils! Give me your Virginia!
+
+ Mrs. C.  A child, Edgar! A child!
+
+ Poe.     To you--only to you. She has her full dower of
+          beauty--womanhood's portion.
+
+ Mrs. C.  She has a right to her education. I can not wrong my
+          child.
+
+ Poe.     I will teach her--teach her more than she will ever learn
+          at the great mess table of knowledge where the genius must
+          take his treacle and the blacksmith his ambrosia! O, aunt,
+          you will give her to me?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, I love you dearly,--but--my little girl--my
+          Virginia--
+
+ Poe.     (Bitterly) There is a difference then. She is yours, I am
+          not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Do not be cruel. I am a distracted mother!
+
+ Poe.     My dear aunt!
+
+          (Virginia runs into yard and flings her arms about her
+          mother)
+
+ Vir.     O, mama, uncle had to stop at Judge Carroll's and they got
+          into an argument and Mrs. Carroll said they would be at it
+          for hours--she knew by the way the judge was filling his
+          pipe--and told me to run back if I wanted to--Mama! Edgar!
+          What is the matter?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar does not want you to leave home, dear.
+
+ Poe.     Tell her all, aunt. (Mrs. Clemm is silent. Poe takes
+          Virginia's hand)
+
+ Poe.     Virginia, you who have the face of a houri, the form of a
+          sylph, and the heart of an angel, will you be my wife?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     My gentle one, can I not teach you to love me?
+
+ Vir.     Teach me? Ah, I love you now, Edgar!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     I do! I do, mama! And oh, what happiness beyond my
+          dream--to be--his wife!
+
+          (Poe embraces her gently and draws her toward the garden,
+          right. They go out slowly. Mrs. Clemm turns toward the
+          cottage, weeping. At the step she hesitates, looks toward
+          the garden, and slowly goes after them, murmuring
+          distractedly)
+
+ Zu.      (Who has observed the scene with growing horror) Fo' de
+          Lawd, fo' de Lawd, bless dem two babies! O, de signs am
+          all wrong! Miss Babylam' came back when she done start
+          away! An' Freddy bird hop right on my ol' wool dis
+          mawnin', kase why, he want tell me sumpin gwine happen to
+          Babylam'. An', oh, dis po' ol' niggah is kilt, kase dis is
+          de day Miss Babylam's fadder done die! De missus she go
+          'bout cryin' dis mawnin, an' I allus 'member she do dat
+          dis bery day! Wha' make Mars Nelson come fo' Babylam'? O,
+          fo de Lawd, fo de Lawd! (Tat and Bony stare at their
+          mother in terror as she proceeds) I see de black hawk what
+          flies outen de dead swamp! Ooo! I see knives a drippin'
+          an' guns a poppin'! Oooooooo! I see de coffin, de
+          coffin--an' it's all dark night, an' de rain comin' down
+          de chimney--an' de wind--de wind--it say "Ooooooooooo!"
+          (Bends her knees and body, and stares moaning. Tat and
+          Bony cling to her skirts. She turns on them with a scream,
+          at which they tumble to the ground) Wha' yo' doin' heah,
+          yo' black no 'count niggahs?
+
+          (Enter from the gate the old minister, Doctor Barlow)
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Good morning, Mum Zurie. You seem to be agitated. Can
+          I help you?
+
+ Zu.      Lawd, no! beg yo' pahdon, sah! I's jes so mighty tickled!
+          Dese heah two niggahs so comicky like! Lawd, no, I wasn't
+          alligated at all, beg yo' pahdon, sah!
+
+ Doctor B.
+          I'm glad to hear it, Zurie. Is your mistress at home?
+
+ Zu.      Yes, sah. Dey all be in de gahden.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          I'll just take a walk in there then.
+
+          (Exit, right)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' make me le'm go in de gahden? My brain it jes all
+          wool and no sense at all! Wha' now he fin' Mars Edgah
+          kissin' Miss Babylam'? Well, ain't dey gwine ter be
+          married? Married! O, lawd! (Throws her apron over her head
+          and sits on the ground. Re-enter Mrs. Clemm and Doctor
+          Barlow. He carries his hat in one hand and mops his brow
+          with the other)
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Well, well, well! Upon my word! Your nephew--pardon
+          me--is possessed of a rather impetuous spirit--rather
+          impetuous, pardon me!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Doctor Barlow, what must I do? You heard him! He
+          wants to be married now--this hour!
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Trust me, Mrs. Clemm, I shall perform no ceremony
+          without your full consent.
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, I am sure of that! But must I consent? If I refuse
+          him he may take her away from me. And Nelson will make
+          trouble if we wait. Edgar will let no one oppose him.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          _I_ should not attempt it, Mrs. Clemm.
+
+ Mrs. C.  If it _is_ to be, it is better to let it be now. What
+          makes me so helpless is the fact that Virginia is against
+          me. She loves him.
+
+ Doctor B.
+          Naturally, Mrs. Clemm, naturally.
+
+          (They enter the cottage)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' dat man talk so now? He better quit preachin' ef he
+          can't hep folks no more 'n dat! Sho', ol' Zurie hussef
+          know dat much!
+
+          (Enter from the road a swarm of girls. They wear graceful
+          organdie gowns, and large ricestraw hats trimmed with bows
+          and streamers. Some carry baskets, which they drop, and
+          all troop about the yard)
+
+ Gertrude.
+          Where's Virginia, Mum Zurie?
+
+ Zu.      (Hesitating) She wa' in de house 'bout so long ago.
+
+ Ger.     I'll see!
+
+ Zu.      Wait a minute! Mis' Clemm she an' de minister talkin' on
+          impo'tant business. Maybe it's dat mortgage, I dunno!
+          (Grimaces)
+
+ Ger.     We'll go into the garden then. (All start, right)
+
+ Zu.      Law, you jes oughter see dat cherry tree hangin' full by
+          de back gate!
+
+ Girls.   O! O! O! (They rush off, disappearing behind the cottage.
+          Re-enter Poe and Virginia from the garden as Mrs. Clemm
+          appears at the front door)
+
+ Vir.     O, 'tis too sweet to be true! How have I won you, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     By beauty, that speaks loudest when most silent. (Mrs.
+          Clemm meets them) God bless you, aunt. I see 'yes' in your
+          eyes. You could not deny me.
+
+ Mrs. C.  No.
+
+ Poe.     Run, Virginia, and put on your fairy's dress! I want you
+          to look as if you were leaping out of a flower into my
+          heart! (Virginia goes in) O this beautiful world! Just to
+          live, my aunt! Is it not enough? Literature is disease!
+          The sick-robe of the soul! Who can write that does not
+          _live_--and who that _lives_ would write! But I must do
+          it--I must work for her. Not a wind shall blow upon my
+          Virginia! I will find the fairy paths for her feet! Not a
+          satyr shall leer from the wood! She will be ready soon. I
+          shall wait for her in the orchard. I would not see her
+          again until she is mine--all mine!
+
+          (Exit, left, singing)
+
+                  'Come, Apollo's pipes are merry--'
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm goes in)
+
+ Zu.      (Rising) I don' reckon it make no difference 'bout dis
+          heah bush now! (Goes to side door and sits on step
+          disconsolately. The girls come running back)
+
+ Mabel.   Here's the finest cherry on the tree for the prettiest
+          mouth! Open, who gets it! (Girls open their mouths. Mabel
+          eats cherry)
+
+ Gertrude.
+          O, vanity!
+
+ Mab.     No, I just took it for Virginia.
+
+ Annie.   Let's play _Ant'ny Over_ while we're waiting! Where's a
+          ball? Bony, get a ball!
+
+ Bony.    Can't do it, missis! Y'all los' it las' time yo's all
+          here!
+
+ Dora.    _Marlow Bright_ then! Half with me and half with Mabel!
+          (Girls divide, the two companies taking opposite bases
+          some distance apart)
+
+ Dora.    Marlow, marlow, marlow bright!
+          How many miles to the old turnpike?
+
+ Mab.     Three score and ten!
+
+ Dora.    Can we get there by candle light?
+
+ Mab.     Yes, if your toes are tripping light!
+
+ Dora.    Any robbers on the way?
+
+ Mab.     Three blind witches, so they say,
+          And Robin Hood with all his _men_!
+
+          (With the last word the girls exchange bases, the
+          travellers, with Dora, trying to reach the opposite
+          base without being caught by the robbers with Mabel.
+          Virginia comes to the door of cottage)
+
+ Annie.   There's Virginia! (Girls stop playing as Virginia joins
+          them)
+
+ Gert.    How pretty you look!
+
+ Mab.     You're a _real_ nymph!
+
+ Annie.   Come, let's be off now! (Picks up a basket)
+
+ Vir.     Girls--I--there isn't going to be any picnic.
+
+ Girls.   No picnic!
+
+ Vir.     But a wedding.
+
+ Girls.   A wedding! Where? Where?
+
+ Vir.     Right here--under the bay tree.
+
+ Girls.   Who? Who?
+
+ Vir.     Why--cousin Edgar--and--
+
+ Girls.   You! you! (All talk at once in excited babble. Virginia
+          breaks from them and runs into the house. Girls keep
+          tumultuous talk partly distinguishable)
+
+ Gert.    He's so handsome!
+
+ Sallie.  He's a prince!
+
+ Annie.   Too young to be married!
+
+ Ethel.   He's twenty!
+
+ Gladys.  Older!
+
+ Mab.     No!
+
+ Mamie.   Virginia is a baby!
+
+ Alma.    She's taller than any of us!
+
+ Annie.   But younger!
+
+ Sallie.  Yonder's Allie Kirby!
+
+ Mamie.   Won't she be surprised! I wasn't one bit!
+
+ Annie.   Nor I!
+
+ Other Girls.
+          Nor I! Nor I!
+
+ Ethel.   I'll tell her!
+
+ Annie.   No, let me!
+
+ Other Girls.
+          I will! I will!
+
+          (As Allie enters all the girls rush to her and talk at
+          once, trying to tell her the news. Mrs. Clemm and Virginia
+          come out of the house and join them)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My little yard never held so many flowers before.
+
+ Allie.   Is it true, Mrs. Clemm?
+
+ Annie.   Of course it is! But you're not going to let him take her
+          away from us!
+
+ Mrs. C.  No, my dears. She will be one of you still.
+
+ Vir.     Where is Edgar?
+
+ Bony.    'Deed, he wah in de orchard 'bout two drecklys ago.
+
+ Vir.     He doesn't know I'm ready. I'll go tell him!
+
+ Girls.   Do! do!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Daughter!
+
+ Girls.   Do let her go, Mrs. Clemm!
+
+ Mab.     We'll all go! What fun!
+
+ Gert.    We'll play 'hunt the bridegroom!'
+
+          (Girls run off, disappearing in various directions)
+
+ Mrs. C.  What will Doctor Barlow think? (Goes in. Allie, the last
+          of the girls, pauses as she passes to the side door where
+          Zurie is sitting)
+
+ Allie.   Why, Mum Zurie, you look as if Miss Virginia were going to
+          be buried instead of married.
+
+ Zu.      (Jumping at the word 'buried') Sho' now, can't Zurie hab
+          de toothache wheneber she please, missus?
+
+ Allie.   Toothache? O, I'm sorry, Mum Zurie.
+
+ Zu.      Mars Edgah he's a mighty fine young man! Yo' won't see no
+          sech grow up roun' _heah_!
+
+ Allie.   But what a pity he isn't rich!
+
+ Zu.      Rich? Wha' fo' Mars Edgah want to be rich? All he got to
+          do is jes scribble, scribble on a piece o' papah, an' de
+          gol' come rollin' down de chimney! Rich! Yo' better say
+          yo' prayers yo' get a Mars Edgah too!
+
+ Allie.   I'll get you to pray for me, Mum Zurie.
+
+          (Runs away laughing)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' fo' now she say I look lak Miss Babylam' gwine ter be
+          buried? O, de good Lawd hep ol' Zurie!
+
+          (Goes in. Enter Poe, left. He is moody and disturbed)
+
+ Poe.     I feel it--a wind from out that solitude. It calls me back
+          ... it calls me back....
+
+ Vir.     (Without, calling) Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Sweet voice from the fields of the sun! (Prays) Jehovah,
+          guide thou me! (Virginia peers around a shrub) Who could
+          lock life's door on such a face? It is God's gift. I take
+          it. (Virginia comes to him slowly. He takes her in his
+          arms. Mrs. Clemm and the minister come out of the house
+          and pause on the steps looking at them. The girls come
+          rushing back laughing and shouting, and at sight of Poe
+          and Virginia become suddenly silent)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT III.
+
+
+Scene I: Interior of Clemm cottage. A large room simply furnished.
+Low fire burning in fireplace. Poe at table writing. Suddenly
+drops pen and picks up two letters)
+
+ Poe.     I must destroy these. She must not know.... My wife....
+          (drops letters absentmindedly) ... Married. Married? What
+          spirit so subtly fine can mingle here?... Back, back, ye
+          troops of devils damned or angels blest--I know not which
+          to call ye--summoning me to those lone regions of the mind
+          where none may follow! None?... Helen could tread those
+          airy worlds with me!... Helen!... Far, far as zenith stars
+          that ride the blue meridian thou art, and I, deep, deep,
+          to nadir sink! (Drops his head to the table)
+
+ Virginia. (Without) Edgar! (He lifts his head smiling as she
+          enters)
+
+ Vir.     (Holding out a book) O, I know the alphabet! I can say it
+          all! (Gives him the book) Watch now, and see if I make a
+          mistake!
+
+ Edgar.   (Smiling.) I'll hardly need the book, dear.
+
+ Vir.     (Pouting.) O, I forget that you know everything!
+
+ Poe.     Not everything. (Taking her face between his hands as she
+          sits on his knee, the book falling at their feet) I do not
+          know how to be happy when this beautiful face is gone. My
+          wife is the fairest lady in all the world.
+
+ Vir.     Then what does it matter about this old Greek, Edgar?
+          (Touching book with her foot)
+
+ Poe.     Just this. You can not always be young and beautiful, and
+          when you are no longer the fairest I want you to be the
+          wisest.
+
+ Vir.     And if I am you will love me always?
+
+ Poe.     Always.
+
+ Vir.     Give me the book! (Picks it up) O, I will eat Greek! I
+          will breakfast with the heroes, dine with the bards, and
+          sup with the gods! But what a pity one must begin with the
+          alphabet to end with--what were those lovely lines I found
+          in your book yesterday?
+
+                  And Helen on the walls rose like a star,
+                  And every Trojan said 'she's worth our blood,'
+                  And every Greek ploughed new his way to her--
+
+          Go on, Edgar! I'm sure you know them!
+
+          (As she repeats the lines he presses her head to his
+          shoulder and puts his hand over her eyes. His face is full
+          of agony, but there is only sweetness in his voice.)
+
+ Poe.     Not now, my little wife. Some other time.
+
+ Vir.     Helen is such a beautiful name. I wish I had been named
+          Helen.
+
+ Poe.     Thank God you are not!
+
+ Vir.     (Looking up hastily) Why--
+
+ Poe.     I mean that I want you to be just as you are--my
+          Virginia--nothing else!
+
+ Vir.     (Seeing he is troubled) I am keeping you from your work.
+          You should have sent me away. I'll be angry with you,
+          Edgar, if you let me disturb you. Now I'm going to find
+          the last rose of summer for you.
+
+ Poe.     But you haven't said your lesson.
+
+ Vir.     O! (begins) Alpha, beta,--now if I say them right you are
+          to give me a kiss for reward!
+
+ Poe.     And if you miss one, I'll give you a kiss for
+          encouragement.
+
+ Vir.     (Seeing letter) O, a letter from New York! You've made me
+          your secretary, you know, and of course I must read your
+          letters! (Picks it up and glances at it) He says Mr.
+          Willis will certainly give you a place on his paper.
+          (Drops letter and looks at him quietly) It is your chance
+          for fortune.
+
+ Poe.     I am not going, love.
+
+ Vir.     If you go now it means success, if you wait failure.
+
+ Poe.     I shall not go, Virginia.
+
+ Vir.     If you were not married you would go.
+
+ Poe.     Then I am glad I can not go.
+
+ Vir.     But you _can_ go, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     My darling, I will never take you away from your mocking
+          birds and roses. Don't you think any more about it. Run
+          away now and find me a flower. You will have to look sharp
+          under the leaves, for the wind is whistling to-day. Our
+          little sham winter has begun to bluster. (Exit Virginia)
+          She shall not suffer. She shall not! Though my heart
+          surges like a prisoned sea hers shall not move her bosom's
+          alabaster!... Why didn't I burn that letter. (Throws it
+          into the fire. Take up the other one) I must keep the
+          lawyer's. I shall need it. (Puts it in his pocket) Now
+          work--work--work--(Resumes writing) '_The Kingdom of the
+          Sun is peopled with beings whose distinguishing attribute
+          is color instead of form as with us. This color varies
+          with each thought of the spirit that it invests, and also
+          with the eye that beholds it. There is no need to pellet
+          the ear with rude words, for the most refined meanings and
+          emotions are conveyed by these subtle variations of color
+          coming and going like breathing light. Were--_' (Enter
+          Mrs. Clemm)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, dear, your breakfast has been waiting two hours.
+
+ Poe.     O, thank you, aunt. Don't trouble about me this morning. I
+          shall want nothing.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But, Edgar, my son, I must speak. You do not sleep and
+          eat as people should who wish to live long for those who
+          love them.
+
+ Poe.     Dear aunt, pray--we'll talk about it some other time. I
+          _must_ work now!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I am sorry to disturb you, love, but there is one question
+          I must ask you. Have you heard from the lawyer? (Poe is
+          silent) A letter came. I thought you would tell me, and
+          not force me to ask about what I must know. Is the place
+          sold?
+
+ Poe.     No.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But it will be? We must lose our home?
+
+ Poe.     No, darling mother! I am going to pay off everything! This
+          very article I am writing will bring me fame if I finish
+          it. So please help me by not worrying one bit, and don't
+          let our Virginia suspect anything.
+
+ Mrs. C.  It would kill her! O, Edgar, I have been wanting to tell
+          you how grateful I am to you for your gentleness to her.
+          Though she looks so strong, she has been frail from her
+          birth. I know that she must die early. I ought to have
+          told you--that day--but I could think of nothing. You will
+          forgive me, Edgar? She is such a child. I wonder at your
+          patience. But you will never be impatient with her, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     If I am, may God that moment end my villain's life! Go
+          now, sweet mother, for I must work, and remember that you
+          are to be troubled about nothing. (Exit Mrs. Clemm, right,
+          rear) Goodbye, Art! Thou pure chrystalline dream! I must
+          turn my brain into a mint and coin money! O, Poesy, thou
+          only divine mistress given to man, some day I will return
+          to thee! (Writes) '_Were zephyrs made visible by means of
+          ever changing hues--_' (Bony and Tat rush into the room.
+          Poe glares at them with a face of fury. They turn to fly
+          panic-stricken. Tat trips on a chair and lies moaning. Poe
+          goes to her)
+
+ Poe.     (Gently) Are you hurt, Tatsy?
+
+ Bony.    (At door, turning back, suddenly impudent at sound of
+          Poe's softened voice) She jes sullin', Mars Edgah. She
+          play possum like dat wid me!
+
+ Poe.     Get out, you little imp! (Bony vanishes) Where are you
+          hurt, Tatsy? (She moans bitterly) Poor little girl! Her
+          foot is twisted. A sprain perhaps. (Picks her up and
+          carries her to sofa) Never mind! I've got a fairy in a
+          bottle will cure that in a jiffy. Just rub it on, and ho,
+          Tatsy is well again!
+
+          (Enter Zurie, Bony clinging to her)
+
+ Zu.      Wha' my chile? Lawdy God, my chile sho' 'nuf hurt! (Goes
+          to Tatsy)
+
+ Poe.     It's the foot, Zurie. Be careful!
+
+ Zu.      Yas, I's seen dat foot befoh! (Gives foot a yank) Dat's
+          her ol' trick, Mars Edgah. She jes foolin' yo'! Don' yo'
+          be so soft hearted next time. Yo' jes take her by de back
+          ob de neck and wring her head off!
+
+ Poe.     I certainly will!
+
+          (Exit Zurie, drawing Tat. Poe goes back to his work.
+          Groans, and looks with desperation at his manuscript)
+
+ Poe.     O, if this eludes me! I must not lose it now! (Writes)
+          '_In this Kingdom of the Sun there is a central creating
+          light that plays upon these color-beings with its own
+          transmuting--_'
+
+          (Re-enter Mrs. Clemm, bearing a tray)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My dear, I've brought you some toast and an egg.
+
+ Poe.     (Jumping up and staring at her) They don't eat toast and
+          eggs in the Kingdom of the Sun!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me! It's just something I'm writing here. But for
+          God's sake take the stuff away!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm turns to go, the tray trembling in her hands.
+          Poe runs to her and kisses her) You sweetest and best of
+          mothers, don't you see that if I eat this I'll spend the
+          next two hours digesting toast and eggs, and if I don't
+          eat it I'll be making our fortune, putting a roof over our
+          heads, and keeping our Virginia happy!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I only meant to be kind, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     I know you did, and you're my darling mother,--but don't
+          be kind any more.
+
+          (Exit Mrs. Clemm. Poe sits despairingly at table. Enter
+          Ethel and Annie)
+
+ Eth.     O, Edgar, where is Virginia? We want her to go nutting
+          with us.
+
+ Annie.   We shall have her now! You shan't keep her all to yourself
+          just because you've married her!
+
+ Poe.     Take her by all means!
+
+ Eth.     You needn't be vicious about it. Where is she?
+
+ Poe.     I don't know,--and pardon if I say that just at this
+          moment I don't care!
+
+          (Gathers up papers and goes toward stairway in corner of
+          room)
+
+ Annie.   You needn't run from us. I'm sure we're glad to go. I'll
+          find Virginia.
+
+ Eth.     And I'll write that note to Gladys while you're gone.
+          (Seats herself in Poe's chair. Exit Annie, left, rear)
+          Come back, if you want to, Edgar. You won't disturb me at
+          all. (Writes. Poe pauses on stairway and looks at her.
+          Ethel lifts her eyes) You needn't look so far to see me.
+          I'm not the North Pole! What _are_ you thinking of, Edgar?
+
+ Poe.     Of what Anacreon said to a fly that lighted on his brow
+          when he was composing an ode to Venus.
+
+ Ethel.   O! What was it?
+
+ Poe.             Away, thou rude and slight impertinence,
+                  That with thy puny and detested bill
+                  Dost think to feed on immortality.
+
+          (Goes upstairs)
+
+ Ethel.   Beast! (Writes) Virginia spoils him. If I had him now I'd
+          soon make a nice comfortable husband out of him!... An
+          envelope?... Yes.... (Takes one) Stamp?... Yes.... (Takes
+          one) I'll get Bony to mail this for me.
+
+          (Exit, right, rear. Poe comes down stairway)
+
+ Poe.     Gone? Deliverance! It's too chilly for work upstairs.
+          (Coughs) What shall I do here this winter with only one
+          comfortable room in the house? Keep warm by the fire in my
+          brain, I suppose. (Sits and writes. Virginia is heard
+          without, humming a song. She enters, left, front, with a
+          rose in her hand)
+
+ Vir.     Darling, I found it deep under the leaves--Oh! (Starts out
+          softly. Poe writes on without looking up. At the door she
+          turns and throws the rose towards him. It falls onto the
+          table and upsets ink over papers)
+
+ Poe.     (Leaping up) By every fiend in hell!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm rushes in, followed by Zurie, Tat and Bony)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My son, what is the matter?
+
+ Poe.     See what that child has done!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (With dignity) Your wife, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     My wife! Great God! O, Helen! Helen! (Rushes from the
+          room, left rear)
+
+ Bony.    I tol' yo' he wah mad! I done tol' yo' Mars Edgah gone
+          mad! He look at me jes so! (Mimics)
+
+ Tat.     (Looking through window) Dah he go now troo de orchard jes
+          a runnin'!
+
+ Bony.    Obah de fence!
+
+ Tat.     An' no hat on!
+
+ Zu.      Stop yo' mouf an' come out o' heah, yo' wussless niggahs!
+          I make yo' know wha' yo' b'longs!
+
+          (Takes them out)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Virginia! What an hour for you!
+
+ Vir.     What an hour for _him_, mamma!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Strange child! Not to think of yourself!
+
+ Vir.     How can I, when he is suffering so?
+
+ Mrs. C.  My angel daughter!
+
+ Vir.     (Kissing her) We will be brave, my mother. I hear the
+          girls. Go to them one moment--do! (Exit Mrs. Clemm) ...
+          Helen! Dear God above! (Drops on her knees by a chair.
+          After a moment of agony, rises, goes to table and looks at
+          papers) What is it I have ruined? (Reads silently) O, what
+          beauty!... I think I can make this out and copy it for
+          him. But now he may never finish it. The heavenly moment
+          is gone ... and I robbed him of it.... I, who should guard
+          him and keep the world away. That is my little part--too
+          little, God knows! O, if I could really help him!
+
+          (Enter Ethel and Annie)
+
+ Eth.     O, Virginia, now that we're rid of that troublesome
+          husband let's have one of our good old-fashioned times!
+          We'll sit by the fire and tell tales. It's too cold anyway
+          to go to the woods.
+
+ Vir.     (Absently) Edgar is there.
+
+ Annie.   And there let him stay! I'm sure it's better for both of
+          you. You hang about him too much, Virginia. He'll quit
+          loving you, mamma says he will, if you're not more
+          sensible. Help me draw up this sofa, Ethel. (They pull
+          sofa to the fire. Annie settles herself comfortably) I
+          feel just like giving you a lecture, Virginia. You must
+          make Edgar go out more. Anybody will get queer shut up
+          here. The other day when mamma asked him to come to our
+          party he wasn't more than half polite when he refused, and
+          we were going to have Mr. Melrose Libbie to meet him too.
+          Said his work would keep him at home! Now you know,
+          Virginia, that poetry isn't work. It's just dash off a
+          line now and then, and there you are! Mr. Libbie said so.
+          O, he had the sweetest thing on the woman's page in last
+          Sunday's paper! Did you see it? You'd better call Edgar's
+          attention to it. Mamma read it to all of us at the
+          breakfast table, and--
+
+ Eth.     O, stop your chatter, Annie, and let Virginia tell us one
+          of her fairy stories just as she used to do. We'll forget
+          all about Edgar and make believe she isn't married at all.
+
+ Vir.     (Painfully) Forgive me, dear girls, but I've some work
+          that I must do to-day.
+
+ Mabel.   Must do! Who ever heard the like?
+
+ Vir.     I was wrong. It is some work that I choose to do--that it
+          will be my happiness to do.
+
+ Ethel.   For Edgar?
+
+ Vir.     Yes.
+
+ Annie.   You are a little fool!
+
+ Vir.     Yes ... I am a little fool.
+
+ Ethel.   O, there's help for you if you know it!
+
+ Vir.     If I were not a little fool I could be of more help to
+          Edgar.
+
+ Ethel and Annie.
+          Oh!
+
+ Annie.   (Jumping up) Then we can't stay to-day!
+
+ Vir.     I am so sorry--but--
+
+ Annie.   O, we might as well give you up first as last!
+          (Exeunt girls)
+
+ Vir.     (Sits at table and stares at the papers) ... A little fool
+          ... a little fool.
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Same room as before. Night. Virginia sits motionless in
+the dim firelight. Mrs. Clemm comes softly down the stairs)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     Naughty mamma! You said you would sleep. What a story to
+          tell your little girl!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Advancing) The rain--wakes me. (Comes to fire) Did Edgar
+          take his cloak, dear?
+
+ Vir.     No, mother.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Are you not cold in that dress, darling?
+
+ Vir.     O no--quite comfortable--and Edgar likes me in white, you
+          know. (A window rattles. Both look anxiously toward the
+          door)
+
+ Mrs. C.  What a gust!... I wonder what winter is like at the north.
+          (Virginia looks at her quickly, and both drop their eyes)
+          ... To think of him out on a night like this! And he has
+          not been well lately. Had he no purpose? Did he say
+          _nothing_ when he went out?
+
+ Vir.     He said he was going to seek Truth.
+
+ Mrs. C.  And what does he mean by truth, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     O, I don't know. When he is talking I understand, but when
+          he is gone it all fades and I know nothing about it.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nor does Edgar, mark me, dear. He is trying to know things
+          that the wise God decreed should remain unknown to mortals.
+          That is what makes him so unhappy.... Did he eat his
+          breakfast this morning, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     No, mamma.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Did he take any food yesterday?... Tell me, daughter. I
+          can not help you if I do not know. (Virginia begins to
+          sob) There! there, darling! A little patience and we'll
+          get him over this.
+
+ Vir.     O, mother!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Come here, my little girl. (Takes Virginia in her arms)
+          Now tell me! Don't let the heart go heavy when mother ears
+          are waiting.
+
+ Vir.     He ... goes out at night ... and I follow him because it
+          kills me to think of him wandering alone. We were on
+          Burney hill last night.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Five miles!... Then that is what these pale cheeks and
+          dark eyes mean! And Edgar let you go!
+
+ Vir.     No! I _go_! I am not a child, mother. Ah, I knew you would
+          not understand!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, yes, I do, Virginia. I know he suffers, but you--
+
+ Vir.     Don't speak of me! You shame me! Were I to lie down on
+          those coals my torture would be less than his. Remember
+          that, mother. When you doubt, as you surely will, remember
+          that I told you, and I know. His mind is a _living_ thing,
+          throbbing through his body and leaving him no shield of
+          flesh. O, mamma, help him! Promise me! You will never
+          forsake him?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Never, my love.
+
+ Vir.     I would not have told you, but my strength is gone, and
+          somebody must know,--somebody who is strong. (A gust
+          shakes the window) O, my darling! Out in that blackness
+          alone! And if I were there I could say nothing. That is
+          the pity of it, mamma. I have no words, and thought
+          without tongue is nothing so long as we are mortal and
+          wear these bodies. Some day it may be enough just to _be_
+          a soul, but not now--not now!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my daughter!
+
+ Vir.     Promise me, mamma, that if I die you will find Helen.
+          _She_ could help him!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Rising) Virginia, if you say another word like that I
+          shall think you are mad--or I am! (Bursts into weeping)
+
+ Vir.     Darling, darling mother! Now I have given you all my
+          burdens you will grow weak under them, and I want
+          strength, strength by my side!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Calm) You must go to bed, dear. I will wait for Edgar.
+
+ Vir.     No, no!
+
+ Mrs. C.  I will coax him to eat something.
+
+ Vir.     (Smiling sadly) Coax him, mamma?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Yes, dear. Go now.
+
+ Vir.     I can not.
+
+ Mrs. C.  I command you, my daughter.
+
+ Vir.     Please do not command me. You have never had to pardon
+          disobedience in me.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Nor shall I have cause now. Obey me, Virginia.
+
+ Vir.     Would you send me into hell, mother?
+
+ Mrs. C.  Daughter!
+
+ Vir.     That is what a bed is to me when Edgar is out like this.
+
+ Mrs. C.  You make too much of these wanderings. Night and day are
+          alike to him.
+
+ Vir.     Ah, it is not the night that I fear!... Go, mamma! It is
+          you who must rest. O, how we need these strong arms--this
+          clear head! I shall nod in my chair for the thought of you
+          getting your needed rest will bring the winks to my own
+          eyes. Come! (Draws her toward stairway) I promise you that
+          I will sleep in the big chair as snug and tight as kitty
+          herself. (Kisses her)
+
+ Mrs. C.  (On the stairs) I can not leave my sick child to watch.
+          You ask me to do an inhuman thing, Virginia. I will not
+          go.
+
+ Vir.     Mother!... Do not let me hurt you ... the dearest, the
+          most unselfish of mothers ... but it is better for me to
+          meet my husband alone.
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm turns and goes slowly upstairs. Virginia goes
+          back to fire)
+
+ Vir.     Watch and pray! I can but watch and pray!... He said 'twas
+          love he wanted ... and I brought him that ... love that
+          shakes but with the globe itself. But it does not help ...
+          'twas all wrong ... all wrong! (Weeps. Rises, and busies
+          herself about an oven on the hearth) Three times I have
+          prepared his supper that it might be fresh enough to tempt
+          him. But now ... I am so tired. I must try to keep this
+          warm. The sight of it may make him angry ... but I must
+          try. (Arranges some clothes on a chair) He will be so wet
+          with the rain. Ah, I can do nothing ... nothing. (Looks
+          toward door) He is coming! Strength, strength. O my God!
+
+          (Poe throws door open. Turns and speaks as if to
+          companions outside)
+
+ Poe.     Goodnight, goodnight, brave Beauty's fearless angels!
+          (Comes in) Well, Dame Venus, what thoughts for your
+          hobbling Vulcan?
+
+ Vir.     (Brightly) My Hermes, you mean. I'm sure you're
+          feather-footed, you go so far and fast.
+
+ Poe.     Why, sweet-mouth, a kiss for that! (Kisses her)
+
+ Vir.     O, my love, you are dripping with the rain.
+
+ Poe.     Well, and so are the trees. Not a leaf out there but is
+          shaking her pearls. Who flies from Nature but man? Let her
+          be terrible, glorious, worthy of his eyes and his heart,
+          and forthwith he takes to his hole.
+
+ Vir.     I hate her to-night. She kept me from following you.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia! (Seizes her hands, crushing them in his, and
+          gazing at her with fierce earnestness) Never do that
+          again! Never again! (Lets her hands fall, and turns toward
+          door as if he must go out. Her eyes follow him eagerly,
+          but she tries to speak carelessly)
+
+ Vir.     Here are your dry things, dear, and I've kept something
+          hot for your supper.
+
+ Poe.     (Turning) Yes ... this is a very valuable skin of mine.
+          Make it comfortable. But what of me, Virginia? That
+          something here burning with fires that would brighten
+          Olympos' head! Have you no welcome for me? (Virginia is
+          silent) Why are you so pale? Light all the lamps! You
+          should not sit in the dark. There are no stars in this
+          den!
+
+ Vir.     (Hurriedly lighting lamp) I'm sorry, love, but last night
+          you wanted the dark--don't you remember?
+
+ Poe.     No, I don't remember. Memory is a hyena, always scratching
+          up our dead selves! You must not remember, Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear.
+
+ Poe.     Forgive me, love. O, I am driving myself mad! Selling
+          myself to the devil of prose that I may bring in that
+          fool's litter--money, money, money--and for what? That we
+          may feed the flesh that devours our souls, and hang such
+          rubbish as this on our backs! (Sweeps garments from chair)
+          O, Virginia, if you were brave enough we would forget
+          these rags of the body and go like spirits to meet our
+          brothers of the night! They are all out there! Will you go
+          with me, my bride?
+
+ Vir.     O, Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Ha! You would rather ask them in to have something dry and
+          something hot! But I must have the air! (Throws door open.
+          Lightning flashes on falling rain. Virginia shrinks from
+          the wind) Hear those winds! Gathering lost souls to the
+          bosom of Night! Feel those drops! Every one of them the
+          tear of a fallen god! O, is it nothing but rain? Ha! ha!
+          ha! (Virginia coughs. Poe closes the door hastily. She
+          coughs again)
+
+ Poe.     Don't, Virginia!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear.
+
+ Poe.     My angel! (Embraces her. She coughs) O, it is these wet
+          clothes! (Throws off coat, picks up dressing gown from the
+          door and puts it on hurriedly)
+
+ Vir.     (Eagerly) Your slippers too, dear!
+
+ Poe.     Yes, yes, my slippers! (Puts them on. Sits in big chair,
+          taking her on his knee, and embracing her tenderly) What
+          made you cough, Virginia?
+
+ Vir.     O, 'twas nothing, dear. 'Tis all right now. Everything is
+          all right.
+
+ Poe.     Is it, little wisdom? O, ye gods!
+
+ Vir.     (Concealing anxiety) Darling?
+
+ Poe.     What, my beautiful earth-bird?
+
+ Vir.     You will take your supper now?
+
+ Poe.     (Impatiently) No, no! Is there any wine in the house?
+
+ Vir.     Yes, love, but--
+
+ Poe.     I must have it! Quick! I shall faint.
+
+ Vir.     (Rising) No, Edgar. It is food you need.
+
+ Poe.     (Rising) Where is it?
+
+ Vir.     O, my dearest!
+
+ Poe.     Tell me, Virginia! (Goes toward a closet)
+
+ Vir.     (Getting before him) If you were reaching for a cup of
+          poison, Edgar, I would risk my life, ay, risk your love,
+          to dash it from you. And wine is your poison. I can not
+          let you drink death.
+
+ Poe.     Death! It is all the life that is left to me, and you deny
+          it!
+
+ Vir.     Be quiet, love. You will wake our mother.
+
+ Poe.     Down, gods, and let the lady sleep!
+
+ Vir.     She is not well, Edgar.
+
+ Poe.     But she will be well to-morrow, and I--I am immortally
+          sick and you deny me a drop of wine.
+
+ Vir.     O, my poor boy! I'm so sorry for you!
+
+ Poe.     And is that all, O Heaven? I'm her poor boy, and she is so
+          sorry for me! Why, here's a heart that loosens in its
+          throbs the birth-song of new stars! Come, strike thy chime
+          with mine, and though all bells upon the planet jingle, in
+          us will still be music!
+
+ Vir.     O, Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Well?
+
+ Vir.     I can not speak.
+
+ Poe.     Virginia, Virginia! I pour out my soul to you! I keep back
+          no drop of its sea! From the infinite, shrouded sources of
+          life I rush to you in a thousand singing rivers, only to
+          waste, to burn, to die on the sands of silence! (She
+          remains motionless, her head bowed) ... It is so still
+          upon the eternal peaks. Will you not come up with me and
+          be the bride of my dreams? You need not speak ... you need
+          not say a word. Only put the light of poesy in your eyes
+          and let me _see_ that through the channel of their beauty
+          course the mysteries that begin with God and end not with
+          time! (She looks at him. He gazes into her eyes) ... Tears
+          ... only tears. (Turns away) Can a soul's _eyes_ be dumb?
+          (She sits, weeping silently) ... Come then ... talk of
+          what you will. Only talk! You have read a little Byron
+          to-day? The new magazine came? And you have made me a
+          handkerchief? (She sobs. He looks at her remorsefully,
+          crosses the room, gets her harp and brings it to the
+          fireside) Come ... sing to me, Virginia. You can do that.
+
+ Vir.     (Taking harp) What shall I sing, dear?
+
+ Poe.     Something to charm the very heart of AEolus! That will turn
+          a tempest into a violet's breath!
+
+ Vir.     Ah, my love!
+
+ Poe.     O, sing--sing anything!
+
+ Vir.     (Sings)
+
+                  Great and calm, cool-bosomed blue,
+                  Take me to the heart of you!
+                  Not where thy blue mystery
+                  Sweeps the surface of the sea,
+                  Leaving in a dying gleam
+                  Living trouble of a dream;
+                  Not where loves of heaven lie
+                  Rosy 'gainst the upper sky
+                  Burning with an ardent touch
+
+                  Where an angel kissed too much;
+                  But where sight and sound come not,
+                  All of life and love forgot,
+                  All of Heaven forfeited
+                  For thy deep Nirvana bed.
+                  Wide and far enfolding blue,
+                  Take me to the heart--
+
+          (Her voice breaks suddenly)
+
+ Poe.     Virginia! (She coughs) Don't! (Her cough increases. She
+          puts her handkerchief to her lips. Poe takes it from her
+          hand and looks at it.) Blood! (Throws handkerchief into
+          the fire, and stands as if paralyzed, gazing at Virginia.
+          Falls at her feet and begins kissing her skirt) My angel!
+          my angel! I have killed my little bride!
+
+ Vir.     (Urging him gently up) No, dear. I was marked for this
+          from birth. My doom was written by Heaven, not you.
+
+ Poe.     Not doom, my Virginia! (Rising) I will save you, my
+          darling! You shall have everything! With the sickle of a
+          wish you shall harvest the earth! We will sail southern
+          seas! We will follow the Spring as she flies! I will knock
+          at the orient gates and bring thee the health of morning!
+          I'll make the world so bright for thee, Hyperion's self
+          shall wear new gold and shame remembered suns from
+          chronicle! Spring from perfection's heart shall pluck her
+          buds, and set such gloss on Nature she may laud her old
+          self in one violet's requiem! O, I'll sing the world into
+          a flower for thy bosom! My love, my love, my love! (She
+          coughs restrainedly. He hides his face till she stops)
+          Even the senseless oak velvets its rude sides to the
+          tender vine! But I--a man--O, beast too vile for hell! too
+          low to be damned!
+
+ Vir.     Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch me! is not the mark here? (Touching his brow)
+          O, where shall I hide it?
+
+ Vir.     (Drawing him to her) On my bosom, Edgar. (Presses him to
+          the large chair and sits on the arm of it, caressing him)
+          This forehead is as pure as heaven-lit ivory of angels'
+          brows!
+
+ Poe.     O, golden heart! (Kisses her over her heart) I will work
+          so hard, Virginia! We shall be rich, and I will take you
+          to some wonderful land where beauty can not die! Will you
+          forgive me then when you are bright and strong in some
+          happy isle of roses?
+
+ Vir.     I will forgive you now, dearest, if you will do one thing
+          for me.
+
+ Poe.     O, what, my darling?
+
+ Vir.     Eat the poor little supper I have cooked for you.
+
+ Poe.     Yes--yes--I'll eat it though it be hell's coals!
+
+ Vir.     Now that's a compliment to your cook, isn't it? (Takes
+          food from oven and puts it on table. Poe eats, at first
+          reluctantly, then hungrily)
+
+ Poe.     It is late--so late! O, my Lenore, you kept up for me!
+          Your weary eyes would not close until they had found their
+          lover! O, can you forgive me, and take me back to your
+          heart? You will love me again?
+
+ Vir.     Ah, Edgar, if love were enough we should always be happy.
+
+ Poe.     Love me, love me, dear! I want no more! And this cough ...
+          we shall stop all that, darling! O, how weary you must be,
+          and you tried to have everything so beautiful for me! How
+          pretty your dress is! You look like a Naiad smiling out of
+          a lily. But it's too cold! Here, I will wrap you! (Puts
+          shawl about her) Ah, little wife, little wife, what evil
+          power locked your gentle heart with mine? Bear with me,
+          love. It will all be different soon. I shall try so hard
+          the gods for pity will not let me fail! See how I have
+          eaten! You may give me more, love. You did not cook this,
+          I know. You stole it from Jove's kitchen.
+
+ Vir.     (Getting food) Yes, I did, and Jove caught me, but he let
+          me go when I told him it was for a poet.
+
+ Poe.     Little witch! (Kisses her) How happy we shall be,
+          Virginia, as soon as I have money. I shall go to New York
+          for a year. It will take only a year. Then I shall come
+          back bringing the lady Fame with me, and you must not be
+          jealous of her.
+
+ Vir.     (Slowly) You--would not--take me?
+
+ Poe.     Why, the north-wind would blow the Spring from my little
+          girl's cheek! Just a year! That is the first step--a cruel
+          one--but we shall be happy when it is over. Just a year,
+          sweetheart! I must take no chances now! I _must_ win!
+
+ Vir.     You shall not leave me! A year will not hurt me, Edgar!
+          But it would kill me to be left here ... and not know ...
+          every minute....
+
+ Poe.     Do you care so much, Lenore? Then we will both stay here.
+          It will take longer, but I will work harder--
+
+ Vir.     Enough for to-night. We are too happy for to-morrows,
+          Edgar. Now you must have a long, long sleep--
+
+ Poe.     No, no! No bed for me to-night! I must work!
+
+ Vir.     No bed, indeed! I did not say bed, my lord! You are going
+          to sit down here (Places him on footstool) and I shall sit
+          here, (settles in chair) and your head in my lap--my hands
+          on your head--and the crooningest of little songs will
+          bring you the sweetest snatch of sleep that you ever, ever
+          had!
+
+ Poe.     O, 'tis heaven, Virginia! But you are too tired, my angel.
+          _You_ must sleep.
+
+ Vir.     And so I shall when my lord shows me the way.
+
+          (Poe drops his head on her lap. She turns down light. He
+          falls asleep as she sings softly)
+
+                  Like a fallen star on the breast of the sea
+                  My lover rests on the heart of me;
+                  The lord of the tempest hies him down
+                  From his billow-crest to his cavern-throne,
+                  And 'tis peace as wide as the eye can see
+                  When my lover rests on the heart of me.
+
+          (Silence. Virginia droops in sleep. No light but dull red
+          coals.)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT IV.
+
+
+Scene I: An old bookstore, New York. Bookseller arranging books.
+Helen at one side looking over shelves. Poe enters. He wears a
+military cloak and jaunty cap. Throws book on table and whistles
+carelessly.
+
+ Bookseller. (Looking book over doubtfully)
+          Forty cents.
+
+ Poe.     (Loudly) Forty devils! (Helen turns and recognizes him. He
+          does not see her) Look at that binding. You can't get a
+          Shelley put up like that for less than ten dollars.
+
+ Hel.     (Aside) My book!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          It's badly marked.
+
+ Poe.     Marked! Of course it's marked. And every mark there worth
+          its dollar. In ten years you'll wish the marks were as
+          thick as the letters.
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Say fifty, and strike off. Not a cent more.
+
+ Poe.     Take it.
+
+ Hel.     To sell my book! (Moves slowly to door) How pale he is!
+          But he is neatly dressed. He can not need fifty cents. To
+          sell my book! I'll speak to him and see if he is past
+          shame. (Steps before Poe as he turns to go out)
+
+ Hel.     Mr. Poe! Don't you remember me? 'Tis delightful to meet an
+          old friend.
+
+ Poe.     (Bowing low) Mrs....
+
+ Hel.     Yes, I am Mrs. Bridgmore.
+
+ Poe.     My dear Mrs. Bridgmore! The pleasure of years gathers in
+          this happy moment. Are you making holiday purchases?
+
+ Hel.     No ... just poking about. I love these old stores. I see
+          you've made a sale. 'Tis a relief to get rid of old books
+          when we've lost our love for them, isn't it? They take up
+          good room on our shelves pretty much as people do in our
+          lives long after we have ceased to care for their
+          friendship. But what one is weary of another is ready to
+          take up. (To bookseller) May I see the book the gentleman
+          has just disposed of? (To Poe) Anything you have liked
+          will be sure to please me.
+
+ Poe.     O, you are mistaken! I am simply leaving the book to be
+          duplicated if possible for a friend of mine who has taken
+          a fancy to my copy. (Gesticulates to bookseller) One
+          glance, Mrs. Bridgmore, will tell you that the book is not
+          for sale.
+
+ Hel.     Ah ... of course not. Pardon the mistake. It seems to be
+          my fate to blunder where you are concerned. (Icily) Good
+          morning, Mr. Poe.
+
+          (As she is going out she drops her purse. Poe hastens to
+          pick it up and restores it to her with a bow. In doing so
+          he forgets his shabby coat and throws back his cloak over
+          his arm, exposing a badly worn sleeve. He becomes suddenly
+          conscious of her observation, and straightens up in his
+          most dignified fashion)
+
+ Hel.     Thank you. (Goes out)
+
+ Poe.     (Turning to bookseller) Here! Take your damned silver!
+          Give me my book!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          A bargain's a bargain, sir.
+
+ Poe.     Bargain! bargain! Do you call that theft a bargain? You
+          parasite! you bookgnat! You insect feeding on men's
+          brains! You worm in the corpse of genius! My book, I say,
+          or by Hector I'll tear your goose-liver from your body,
+          you pocket-itching Jacob!
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Here! take it!
+
+ Poe.     There's your Judas' blood! (Throws down money and starts
+          out with the book. Enter Brackett)
+
+ Brackett. (Stopping Poe) Mr. Poe, I believe.
+
+ Poe.     Right, sir. And Brackett, I think your name was when I
+          knew you.
+
+ Bra.     Quite right, Mr. Poe. I saw you coming in here, and though
+          you have changed somewhat with the help of years I was
+          sure it was you.
+
+ Poe.     And how, Mr. Brackett, may that knowledge be of interest
+          to you?
+
+ Bra.     Well, perhaps it does concern you more than myself.
+
+ Poe.     Kindly tell me in what way that I may regret it.
+
+ Bra.     Your pen has been supplying matter for _The Comet_, I
+          believe.
+
+ Poe.     If you have any doubt of it a perusal of that magazine's
+          issues for the past two years will satisfy you.
+
+ Bra.     The returns therefrom have contributed somewhat to your
+          comfort, I suppose.
+
+ Poe.     Do you?
+
+ Bra.     Ah, I am mistaken? Then I have less hesitation to tell you
+          that the articles recently submitted are unavailable.
+
+ Poe.     _You_ tell me! What have you to do with it? Who are you?
+
+ Bra.     I am the present editor of _The Comet_.
+
+ Poe.     You!
+
+ Bra.     I! You see I am in a position to speak with
+          authority,--and it is only just to tell you that your
+          articles will meet with no further recognition in that
+          quarter.
+
+ Poe.     Brackett ... I have been very ill. I wrote those things on
+          what I believed to be my death bed. My wife....
+
+ Bra.     I should say then that you are in great need of money.
+
+ Poe.     God help me, I am! You know I am not one to beg!
+
+ Bra.     But it's beg or starve with you, eh? (Poe looks at him
+          silently) Well, I should advise you to make application
+          without loss of time to some one who does not know you
+          quite so well as the new editor of _The Comet_. Good
+          morning.
+
+ Poe.     (Calling to him as he stands in door) I say, Brackett!
+          (Brackett turns) _I_ should advise _you_ to change the
+          name of _The Comet_ as well as its editor. Suppose you
+          call it _The Falling Star_? Ha! ha! (Exit Brackett) Curse
+          me for a whining dog--but Virginia--
+
+          (Goes out)
+
+ Bookseller. (Arranging books) Queer chap. We public men get to
+          know all sorts. That book will be mine yet. It's a good
+          seller at ten dollars, and blest if I wouldn't like to
+          help the wretch out with fifty cents. He'll be back.
+
+          (Enter Helen)
+
+ Hel.     I wish to buy the book the gentleman has just left with
+          you.
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Why ma'am, he's gone and took it with him.
+
+ Hel.     Took it with him?
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Yes, ma'am, and thereby I've lost time and trade.
+          (Aside) She'd give fifteen!
+
+ Hel.     He needed money?
+
+ Bookseller.
+          Well, I should _guess_ so, ma'am. That's the last
+          book he had. He told me about it before. He's been
+          bringin' them all here. I _think_ he'll be back, ma'am,
+          and I'll keep the book for you.
+
+ Hel.     Thank you. (Turns to go. Sees letter on the floor and
+          picks it up) Why, 'tis ... he dropped it! I wonder if I
+          may ... he is suffering ... that shabby coat ... and he is
+          so proud. I think I ought to read it. I must know where to
+          find him. (Looks at letter) Fordham! (Reads)
+
+              My Dear Son: One last prayer the mother of your
+              Virginia makes to you. She is dying. Come and sit by
+              her and she will carry a smile to her grave. Do not
+              stay away because you can not bear to witness her
+              suffering,--because you have nothing to give her.
+              Come, and by your loving presence lessen her pain.
+              God bless you! Your devoted mother,
+                                                    MARIA CLEMM.
+
+          (Helen stands trembling and holding the letter) ...
+          And I hurt him ... I hurt him....
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: Poe's cottage, Fordham. A room almost bare. Virginia
+sleeping on bed. Poe's cloak over her. Mrs. Clemm kneeling in
+prayer beside her. Poe enters, carrying a bundle of broken sticks
+which he lays down softly, one by one, on the hearth, looking
+anxiously toward the bed. Mrs. Clemm rises and comes to the fire)
+
+ Mrs. C.  My child, you have been out in the snow without your
+          cloak! (Brushes snow from his shoulders)
+
+ Poe.     Could I take the least warmth from yon shivering angel?
+
+ Mrs. C.  You forget that you, too, are ill. O, my boy, be careful,
+          or I shall soon be childless in the world. One is already
+          lost....
+
+ Poe.     Not lost. See how she sleeps! She is better. I know she is
+          better.
+
+ Mrs. C.  Since you came. We will hope so, dear.
+
+ Poe.     If she would only speak to us! O, why does she not speak?
+          Not once to-day.
+
+ Mrs. C.  She is very weak, my son.
+
+ Poe.     I could bear it so long as she could tell us there was no
+          pain ... but now she only looks at us.... Oh--
+
+ Mrs. C.  You will control yourself for her sake.
+
+ Poe.     Yes, yes, for her sake.
+
+ Mrs. C.  It will take her last breath to see you disturbed.
+
+ Poe.     I know! I know! Have no fear, mother. I am strong now.
+
+ Vir.     Edgar! (He flies to the bed)
+
+ Poe.     My darling!
+
+ Vir.     I am better, dear. Mamma! (Mrs. Clemm goes to her) I feel
+          so rested, mamma.
+
+ Poe.     I told you! She is better! And you will sit up a little
+          now, dear? I will carry you to the fire.
+
+ Mrs. C.  My boy!
+
+ Poe.     O, mother, don't you see how well she is? Look at her
+          cheeks--her eyes--how beautiful!
+
+ Vir.     (Smiling) Hear him, mamma! How proud he is! He must always
+          have it that his wife is beautiful.
+
+ Poe.     But it is so true, my dearest!
+
+ Vir.     Let me believe it, for it is sweet to think that I have
+          been that, at least, to you.
+
+ Poe.     O, my darling, you have been everything!
+
+ Vir.     You think so now, dear, and I love to hear you say it.
+
+ Poe.     And you will get well for me?
+
+ Vir.     No, O no! That would bring all your troubles back. You
+          will live a great life, Edgar, when you have left this
+          little care-bundle of a wife behind you.
+
+ Poe.     O, don't, Virginia! I shall do nothing without you!
+
+ Vir.     You will do everything. I am the wise one now, Edgar. And,
+          dear, while I can talk ... I must ask you ... must beg you
+          ... I must hear you say that you forgive me.
+
+ Poe.     Forgive you!
+
+ Vir.     Yes, dear. I was so young ... I thought I could help you
+          ... and so I let you marry me. I did not know. I thought
+          because I loved you so much that I could make you happy.
+          But women who can only love are not the women who help.
+          They must be wise and strong too, and oh, so many other
+          wonderful things. If they are not, then all the love only
+          hurts and makes things go wrong.
+
+ Poe.     O, little angel!
+
+ Vir.     Yes ... little angel ... when I ought to have been a
+          brave, great angel who could bear heaven on her wings.
+          Long ago I knew it, Edgar. When the truth came I looked
+          every way and there was no help. Then when I found I was
+          to die, it seemed that God had pitied and helped me. For
+          that was the only way.... O, these little women who can do
+          nothing but love! I wish I could take them all with me.
+          These tears are for them, not for myself, darling. O, I am
+          happy, but they must wait ... they can not die. How you
+          shiver! You must take your cloak. I am warm now. Indeed, I
+          am quite comfortable.... Don't--don't weep. You must be
+          happy because I am. Let us smile the rest of the time,
+          darling,--it--is such a little while.
+
+ Poe.     (Brokenly) Yes ... yes.... O little flower, little flower,
+          dropping back to God's bosom, how have I dared to touch
+          thee!
+
+ Vir.     (Rubbing her hand on his arm) 'Tis damp! You have been
+          out? O, my dear, you must, must take your cloak! I am
+          quite, quite warm! See, feel my hands! (Smiling)
+
+ Poe.     (Taking her hands) Little icicles!
+
+ Vir.     You have been out! O, save yourself for the great things
+          ... now I am going out of your way. Don't let my death be
+          as vain as my life. Let that count for something, Edgar.
+          O, promise me you will live for your genius' sake, you
+          will be true to your heavenly gift! Kneel by me and
+          promise!
+
+ Poe.     I ... promise.
+
+ Vir.     Dear husband ... I.... (faints)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, she is gone!
+
+ Poe.     No! She faints! My beautiful idol! O, some wine! Heaven
+          and earth for some wine!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She looks at us! My daughter!
+
+ Poe.     O, do not try to speak! Let your beautiful eyes do all the
+          talking!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She looks toward the fire. She would have you go, Edgar,
+          and try to keep warm. Come, dear. (Poe kisses Virginia
+          gently, and goes to fireside, looking back adoringly) Do
+          not look at her, and she will sleep again.
+
+ Poe.     Ah, God! It will take more than sleep to help her. And I
+          can give her nothing--nothing!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Don't, Edgar! Remember your terrible illness--how you
+          worked for her when fever was burning your brain--until
+          your pen fell from your hand.
+
+ Poe.     I brought her to this land of ice and snow!
+
+ Mrs. C.  No. Destiny brought her. We lost our home. Your work was
+          here--and she would not stay behind you.
+
+ Poe.     A _man_ would have saved her!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my boy, do not take this burden on your soul! For
+          once spare yourself!
+
+ Poe.     I can not even give her food!
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Restraining him) My son, she sleeps.
+
+ Poe.     Yes ... sleep ... let me not rob her of that too! Be quiet
+          ... just be quiet ... while she dies. (Seats himself with
+          strange calmness) Come, mother, let us be cheerful. Take
+          this chair. Let us be rational. Let us think. Death is
+          strange only because we do not think enough. God must
+          breathe. Life is the exhalation, death the inhalation of
+          deity. He breathes out, and the Universe flames forth with
+          all her wings--her suns and clusters of suns--down to her
+          mote-like earth, the butterfly of space, trimmed with its
+          gaudy seasons, and nourishing on its back the parasitical
+          ephemeran, Man!
+
+ Mrs. C.  My love--
+
+ Poe.     Be calm, mother. Be calm. Then the great inbreathing
+          begins. The creative warmth no longer goes out. The
+          parasites vanish first, then the worlds on which they
+          ride, and last the mighty suns,--all sink into the still,
+          potential unity, and await the recurrent breath which may
+          bear another universe, unlike our own, where the animate
+          may control the inanimate, the organic triumph over the
+          inorganic,--(rising) ay, man himself may dominate nature,
+          control the relentless ecliptic, and say to the ages of
+          ice and fire 'Ye shall not tread on me!'
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar!
+
+ Poe.     I beg your pardon. We must be calm. (Resumes his seat) But
+          God will not stop breathing (with bitter sarcasm) though
+          your daughter--and my wife--is dying. (Mrs. Clemm weeps.
+          He turns to the window) Do you know that elephants once
+          nibbled boughs out there where the snow is falling? They
+          ran a mighty race--and died--but no tears were shed. In
+          the records of the cosmos, if man is written down at all,
+          I think he will be designated as the 'weeping animal.'
+
+ Mrs. C.  Are you human?
+
+ Poe.     I regret that I belong to that feeble and limited variety
+          of creation, but with the next self-diffusion of the
+          concentrated Infinite I may be the Sun himself!
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, my mother-heart!
+
+ Poe.     Think a little more and you will forget it. The heart
+          makes the being there on the bed your daughter--my
+          wife--but the mind makes her a part of the divine force
+          which has chosen her shape for its visible flower. The
+          heart is wrung by the falling of the bloom, for it is
+          endeared to that only, but the mind rejoices in its
+          reunited divinity. Come.... (Moves a step toward the bed)
+          I can look on her now ... and be quiet. Sweet rose, I can
+          watch your petals fall. But they fall early ... they fall
+          early ... blasted in the May. Not by the divine breath
+          drawing you home, but by my mortal, shattering hand! I
+          promised you sun and dew.... I have given you frost and
+          shadows. O God! O God! let me _not_ think! Keep me a
+          little, weeping child!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Dear son, cast out this bitterness. Only your love and
+          devotion have kept her alive so long.
+
+ Poe.     No! I touched her like a wing of doom, and she fell
+          blasted! (She tries to soothe him) No, no! Call devils
+          from hell to curse me!
+
+          (A knock at the door. Mrs. Clemm opens it and a basket is
+          delivered to her. Poe, deep in agony, does not notice. She
+          takes things from the basket)
+
+ Mrs. C.  O, Edgar! Wine, and soft blankets!
+
+          (He looks up, and rushes across to her)
+
+ Poe.     Wine! wine! O, spirit that bendest from pitying clouds, a
+          mortal thanks thee! Quick, mother, these drops of strength
+          will give her back to us!
+
+ Mrs. C.  She sleeps, my son, which is ease more precious than
+          these drops can give.
+
+ Poe.     (Taking bottle) Give it to me!
+
+ Mrs. C.  Edgar, Edgar, do not wake her!
+
+ Poe.     Lenore, Lenore, out of thy dream, though 't were the
+          fairest ever blown to mortal from Elysium! This will put
+          thee to such smiles that dreams--
+
+ Mrs. C.  Be quiet, for God's sake!
+
+ Poe.     Quiet! 'Tis a word for clods and stones! You'd hold me
+          from her when my hand brings life? (Rushes to cupboard and
+          gets a glass which he fills)
+
+ Mrs. C.  Just a little, Edgar. Too much would--
+
+ Poe.     She shall drink it all, by Heaven! I will save her!
+
+          (Mrs. Clemm sinks to a chair, helpless and sobbing. A
+          knock at the door which neither hears. Enter Helen. As Poe
+          turns to approach the bed he faces her, stares, and lets
+          the glass drop shivering)
+
+ Poe.     You!
+
+ Hel.     I, Edgar. You see I can remember my friends--and I've come
+          to scold you for not--letting me know--
+
+ Poe.     It was you who sent--
+
+ Hel.     Some blankets soft as summer clouds for the most beautiful
+          lady in the world? And wine delicate enough for a fairy's
+          throat? I knew you would not have it else. (Turns to Mrs.
+          Clemm) You do not know me, but--
+
+ Mrs. C.  (Taking her hand) I know you are a good woman reaching a
+          hand to me in my sorrow.
+
+ Hel.     (Embracing her) No ... my arms!
+
+          (Poe goes to bed and kneels by Virginia. Speaks softly to
+          her, then rises and brings a little wine)
+
+ Poe.     Just a drop, dear,--a butterfly's portion.
+
+          (Virginia drinks)
+
+ Hel.     (To Mrs. Clemm) How is she?
+
+ Mrs. C.  She will have but one more word for us--goodbye.
+
+ Hel.     Can I--may-- O, you must let me do something for her--for
+          you! Do not make me miserable by saying there is nothing I
+          can do.
+
+ Mrs. C.  There is ... something. I have never begged--
+
+ Hel.     Do not use such a word. It is you who give--make me happy.
+
+ Mrs. C.  But I will beg this. Some linen for her last robe.
+
+ Hel.     God bless you for telling me!
+
+ Poe.     (Rising from his knees by Virginia) Helen, Virginia would
+          speak to you.
+
+ Hel.     O, save the precious breath! (Approaches bed) Ah ... how
+          lovely ... I understand....
+
+ Vir.     (Lifting her head) Helen ... help my Edgar. (Sinks back.
+          Poe lays his head on her pillow. Helen stands with her arm
+          about Mrs. Clemm. Curtain falls, and rises on same room at
+          night. Virginia's body lies on the bed. Poe watches alone.
+          A candle burns on table)
+
+ Poe.     (Standing by bed) ... So low in sleep, little girl?... I
+          took thee mid thy roses. O, broken gentleness, little
+          saint-love, move but a hand, a finger, to tell me thou art
+          still my pleading angel!... Not one breath's life. Still
+          ... quite still. O, might such rest be mine! (Turns away)
+          I'll write. (Goes to table) I promised. Yes ... I'll
+          write. Behind the glorious chancel of the mind still
+          swings the incense to the deathless gods!... (Sits and
+          writes) ... No. (Rising) No rhymes--for Poesy must mourn
+          to-night. (Goes toward bed) Too much of her is dead.
+          (Gazes at Virginia) Cold ... cold. What art thou death? Ye
+          demons of a mind distraught, keep ye apace till I have
+          fathomed this!... Ha! What scene is that? (Stares as at
+          visions) A valley laid in the foundations of darkness! The
+          unscalable cliffs jut to heaven, and on the amethystine
+          peaks sit angels weeping into the abyss where creatures
+          run to and fro without escape! Some eat, some laugh, some
+          weep, some wonder. Now they make themselves candles whose
+          little beams eclipse the warning stars ... and in the
+          pallid light they dance and think it sun! But on the revel
+          creeps a serpent, fanned and crimson, with multitudinous
+          folds lapping the dancing creatures in one heaving
+          carnage! The candles die.... The stars cannot pierce the
+          writhing darkness.... Above on the immortal headlands sit
+          the angels, looking down no more, for the dismal heap no
+          longer throbs.... I must write this! Now! While I see it!
+          That moaning flood ebbing to silence ... those rosy
+          promontories lit with angel wings ... and over all as
+          large and still as heaven, the cold, unweeping eyes of
+          God!... (Writes.... A tapping at the door. He does not
+          hear. Another tapping. He looks up) Who's there?... This
+          is my vigil. Nor devil nor angel shall share it!...
+          (Listens. Tapping. He goes to door and throws it open) ...
+          Nothing ... nothing ... but darkness. (Stands peering, and
+          whispers) Lenore!... (Closes door, bolts it, returns to
+          table and writes silently. Utter stillness, then a
+          rattling at the window. Poe leaps up) What's that? (The
+          shutter is blown open. Poe stands watching. A raven flies
+          in and perches above door) Out, you night-wing! (He looks
+          at raven silently) You won't? Why, sit there then! You're
+          but a feather! (Sits and writes. After a moment rises and
+          reads)
+
+                  Out--out are the lights--out all!
+                    And over each quivering form,
+                  The curtain, a funeral pall,
+                  Comes down with the rush of a storm--
+                  And the angels all pallid and wan,
+                    Uprising, unveiling affirm
+                  That the play is the tragedy 'Man!'
+                  And its hero the Conqueror Worm!
+
+          Ah! the thought pales from these lines like light from
+          dying cinders. Poetry is but ashes telling that a fire has
+          passed. (Sits gloomily. Suddenly remembers the raven,
+          turns and stares at it) You bird of damnation, leave me in
+          peace with my dead!... O, dreaming fool, 'tis nothing....
+          My mind's a chaos that surges up this fancy. (Tries to
+          write, stops, goes on, trembles, and looks up) ... Can I
+          know fear? I, the very nursling of dreams? Who have lived
+          in a world more tenanted with ghosts than men? I can not
+          be afraid.... (Tries to write. Drops pen. Shudders,
+          looking with furtive fear at the raven) ... I am ... I am
+          afraid.... Virginia! (Creeps toward bed) Stay with me,
+          little bride. My little rose-bride! (Fingers along
+          coverlet, looking at raven) Do not leave me. Quick, little
+          love! Give me life in a kiss! (Touches her hand, shrinks,
+          and springs up) Dead!... (Leans against foot of bed,
+          wildly facing the raven) Speak, fiend! From what dim
+          region of unbodied souls hast come? What hell ungorged
+          thee for her messenger? What sentence have the devils
+          passed upon me? To what foul residence in some blasted
+          star am I condemned? Speak! By every sigh that poisons
+          happy breath!--by every misery that in me rocks and
+          genders her swart young!--by yonder life that now in
+          golden ruin lies!--I charge thee speak! How long shall I
+          wander without rest? How long whirl in the breath of
+          unforgiving winds? Or burn in the refining forges of the
+          sun? When will the Universe gather me to her heart and
+          give me of her still, unthrobbing peace? Speak! When--O
+          when will this driven spirit be at home?
+
+          (Silence. Poe listens with intense expectation and fear.
+          The raven flies out) It spoke! (Hoarsely) It spoke! I
+          heard it! (Whispers) Nevermore! (He falls in a swoon.
+          Candle flickers in the wind and goes out. Darkness)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+ACT V.
+
+
+Scene I: Poe's lodging, Baltimore. Small room. Cot, table, and one
+chair. Poe writing)
+
+ Poe.     (Pressing his temples) Throb--throb--but you shall finish
+          this. (Writes) You, too, rebel, old pen? On, on like a
+          lusty cripple, and we'll scratch out of this hole.
+          (Lifting pen) Why, old fellow, this will buy bread. O,
+          bread, bread, bread, for one sweet crumb of thee to feed
+          an angel here! (Touching his forehead) Gordon will not
+          fail me. His letter will come to-day. And with his help
+          I'll get on good ground once more. And _then_!... (Writes.
+          Drops pen with a groan) ... Gordon's letter _must_ come
+          to-day. O, I would live, would live, for seeds are
+          gendering in my mind that might their branches throw above
+          the clouds and shake immortal buds to this bare earth!...
+          (Looks at writing) Words! Ye are but coffins for
+          imagination! No more of you! (Crushes paper) Eternity's in
+          labor with this hour! (Leaps up) I could make Time my page
+          to carry memories from star to star! O Heaven, wouldst
+          thou vouchsafe thy visions to these eyes, then fill them
+          with cold clay? Pour to these ears thine own philosophies,
+          then send the crawling worm to pluck their treasure out?
+          (Falls to chair. Enter Mrs. Schmidt)
+
+ Mrs. S.  (Holding out letter) Here it is, sir.
+
+ Poe.     (Rousing) What, Smidgkin?
+
+ Mrs. S.  The letter's come, sir.
+
+ Poe.     Thank you. (Takes letter. Mrs. Schmidt waits expectantly)
+          If you will be so good, Smidgkin--I mean if you will be so
+          cruel as to bereave me of your presence while I break this
+          very personal seal--very personal, I assure you--
+
+ Mrs. S.  No, sir. I stay to see what's inside o' that!
+
+ Poe.     Since you desire it, madam. (Starts to open letter and
+          hesitates) I--hope you are well, my good Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Always am. Hadn't you better see what's in it?
+
+ Poe.     To be sure.... I hope you have a good fire in your room
+          this chilly weather, Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Always do. I'll break it for you, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     O, no, no! I couldn't think of troubling you. The rain
+          beats very heavily. I hope your-er-roof will not be
+          injured.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Law me, I had every leaf tinkered up them sunny days
+          last week. I believe in preparin' for a rainy day, _I_ do,
+          Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Indeed, yes,--if only we were all so wise, but, alas, my
+          dear Smidgkin, some of us build so high that the angels
+          have to come down and tinker our roofs ... and when they
+          won't, Smidgkin ... when they won't (Lays letter on the
+          table) ... I hope you have no errands to take you from
+          your cheerful fireside in weather like this, Mrs.
+          Smidgkin.
+
+ Mrs. S.  My name is Schmidt, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Pardon me, madam.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Air you a goin' to open that letter or air you not?
+
+ Poe.     Why, good woman, to be sure I am. I did not know you were
+          particularly interested. Excuse me. Here goes--and God
+          mend the devil's work. (Opens letter and reads) 'I have
+          talked with Brackett--' Brackett! (Drops letter and sits
+          dumb)
+
+ Mrs. S.  He sent you the ten dollars, hey? Where is it, hey?
+          Seems to me that's white paper with mighty few marks on
+          it! Not much like a ten dollar bill! Where is it, I say?
+          Lost in the mailbags, I reckon! It will come by next post!
+          You're certain--quite certain, Smidgkin! I tell you, Mr.
+          Poe, this is once too often!
+
+ Poe.     A bare, unfurnished room like this--
+
+ Mrs. S.  Is worth just a dollar a week to me, which is exactly a
+          dollar more than you can pay!
+
+ Poe.     Mrs. Smidgkin, there is a legend in the world that pity
+          never wholly leaves the breast of woman.
+
+ Mrs. S.  Shame to your tongue, Mr. Poe, that says I haven't been
+          as kind to you as your own mother--sister! Haven't you had
+          this room nigh to a month since I've seen a cent for it?
+          Didn't I give you stale bread a whole week, an' coffee a
+          Sunday mornin'? An' you dare say I'm not a Christian,
+          merciful woman? You come out o' here, or I'll put hands on
+          you, I will!
+
+ Poe.     Mrs. Smidgkin, Mrs. Smidgkin, are you aware that the rain
+          pours outside like the tears of the Danaides on their
+          wedding night? And speaking of weddings, Smidgkin--
+
+ Mrs. S.  Schmidt! As you'll find on my good man's tombstone, an'
+          some day on my own, bless God!
+
+ Poe.     O, don't talk so, I beg you!
+
+ Mrs. S.  Why now, Mr. Poe! Law me, who'd a thought you could be
+          so softhearted--about a tombstone, too!
+
+ Poe.     As I said, my dear madam--speaking of weddings--pray take
+          this chair. 'Tis all I have to offer. Gladly will I stand
+          before you, though I am but slightly bolstered within for
+          the attitude. Speak to me, madam. Let one thought fly from
+          thy caging brow to me a beggar vile.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, Mr. Poe!
+
+ Poe.     Thanks for the burden of those syllables.
+
+ Mrs. S.  My dear Mr. Poe!
+
+ Poe.     Again? You overwhelm me? Dare I speak? You have suspected?
+          You know why I linger in this dear room--dear as the
+          barrier that staves off guttery death? This kindness is
+          sincere? I may trust it and speak?
+
+ Mrs. S.  You may, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Well then, sweet Smidgkin, will you open the broad gates
+          of genial widowhood to admit a fallen wretch to the warmth
+          of your bosom and hearthstone--particularly the latter?
+
+ Mrs. S.  (With dignity) I presume, Mr. Poe, that I am addressed
+          by an offer of marriage. I have had offers before, Mr.
+          Poe,--one an undertaker who drove a good business, but he
+          looked for all the world like one of his own corpses an'
+          what is business says I to a woman in good circumstances
+          with a longin' heart? I don't mind sayin' it, Mr. Poe, a
+          nice lookin' man always did take my eye, an' you'll be a
+          pretty figure when you're plumped out a bit, indeed you
+          will, but your addresses of this offer is somewhat
+          unusual, an' if you'll give me time--
+
+ Poe.     The weather, madam, will admit of no delay. Since you are
+          so determined, I must give up hope and seek shelter under
+          Jove's great canopy.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, don't go there, Mr. Poe--it's a bad place, that Canpy
+          house, an' I've heard Jove talked about for a vile
+          barkeep! I guess since you're so impetus I'll say yes to
+          these addresses of marriage, Mr. Poe.
+
+ Poe.     Ha! ha! ha!
+
+ Mrs. S.  What do you mean, Mr. Poe? My dear Eddie, I should say!
+
+ Poe.     I mean, madam, that death loves a joke.
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, my sweet Eddie, don't be talkin' about death. You're
+          so pale I don't wonder--and a'most starved out I'll
+          venture my word for it. But you won't know yourself in a
+          week. I've got the sweetest room downstairs--all in blue
+          an' white, with a bed three feet o' feathers, soft as a
+          goosebreast, I warrant, an' I'll tuck you in an' bring you
+          a toddy that'll warm you to your toes, it will, an'--
+
+ Poe.     Ha! ha! ha! Well, why not? I seize this wretched plank or
+          sink with all that in me is. Men have done it. But not
+          Edgar Poe! Sell my soul for a broth-dish--a saucepan--a
+          feather-bed--
+
+ Mrs. S.  O, he's out of his mind, sure he is! My sweet Eddie, he's
+          loved me distracted!
+
+ Poe.     Can this be woman?
+
+ Mrs. S.  Law me!
+
+ Poe.     The sex that knew a Virginia--that knows a Helen? No!
+          there are men, women ... and angels!
+
+ Mrs. S.  Look here, Mr. Poe, don't you mention no women 'round me!
+          O, Eddy, my Eddy! (Offers to caress him)
+
+ Poe.     Away! You wench from Venus' kitchen! (Going) This weather
+          ... once I could have braved it with the wildest wing that
+          ever flew. But now.... (coughs wretchedly)
+
+ Mrs. S.  No rent an' no husband either!
+
+ Poe.     Up, heart, we go! Henceforth I live by spirit-bread! Lead
+          me, ye unseen comrades, to immortal feasts! (Exit)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+Scene II: An hour later. A bar-room. Door in center, rear. Four
+men at table, left, rear, playing cards.
+
+ Haines.  Was afraid you wouldn't show up to-night, Juggy.
+
+ Juggers.
+          Nothing like a stormy night for a good game. Never miss
+          one. Rain brings me luck.
+
+ Black.   Then, by Jacks, you'll have it all your way to-night. It's
+          pouring hogsheads. Your deal, Sharp. (They play in
+          silence. Poe enters, rear, walks uncertainly across the
+          room and takes a seat, right, front. There seems to be
+          life only in his eyes, their burning light revealing a
+          soul struggling free from a corpse. He sits unnoticed for
+          a short time)
+
+ Sharp.   (To barkeeper) Say, Thomas, I thought this was a
+          gentleman's house. What's that in the corner? Looks like a
+          coffin might 'a' spilt it on the way to the graveyard.
+
+ Bark.    (In lower tone) He's one o' these writin' fellers in hard
+          luck. I've let him hang around here a good deal, for he's
+          always quiet and gives me no show for kickin' him out. But
+          say the word and he goes.
+
+ Haines.  Looks more like a sick man than a bum.
+
+ Sharp.   Bah! He can drink till he wets his boots. I know that sort
+          of a face.
+
+ Bark.    Never drinks anything 'round here.
+
+ Sharp.   Good reason. You don't wear a charity medal.
+
+ Jug.     Let him stay for luck.
+
+ Sharp.   Whose luck? You're doing all the winning to-night,
+          Juggers. He's a Jonah for the rest of us. I want his eye
+          off me, I say.
+
+ Black.   O, let him alone. I'd ask a burglar to have a seat in my
+          house a night like this--'pon honor, I would. Play up.
+          (They play on)
+
+ Poe.     What a noble palace is here! How the gleaming vault
+          reaches to heaven and mocks the stars! What resplendent
+          lights! As though the master had taken burning planets for
+          his candles! How far they throw their beams--around the
+          world and into the nether sea!
+
+ Jug.     (To Haines, who is looking at Poe) Mind your play there,
+          Haines.
+
+ Poe.     I know this place. It is the poet's house of dream that
+          all my life I've sought to reach. I am dying now, and they
+          let me in, because I have been true to them. The master
+          will read it in my face. I have not eaten of the
+          flesh-pots! I have beggared my body, but I have not
+          beggared my soul!
+
+ Sharp.   Curse it, Juggers! It's yours again!
+
+ Haines.  Take your medicine, Sharp. A man must know how to lose
+          as well as win.
+
+ Poe.     Yonder is the master, arrayed all in white and gold and
+          sapphire. Those angels that attend him are poets wrapped
+          in fires of love. They talk about me now, and ask if I am
+          worthy to come in. O, I have loved ye well, immortal dead!
+          Through noons that burnt the world I've tracked your dewy
+          shadows! No day died in my eyes but ye were whispering
+          priests! And midnight stars have learned your names of me!
+
+ Sharp.   (Throwing down cards) It's that hoodoo in the corner!
+
+ Poe.     How wonderful their voices! They speak a strange language,
+          but I can interpret it.
+
+ Sharp.   I'll not play another card until he goes!
+
+ Poe.     He says that by the trembling of the planet-lights an
+          earth-soul come this way. He sees me!
+
+ Black.   Well, by Jacks, I've got a dollar for his supper and bed.
+
+ Poe.     He says that 'tis a strange creature carrying a burning
+          brand in his bosom.
+
+ Sharp.   You can afford to be a fool. You've helped Juggers rake
+          in.
+
+ Poe.     Not a brand, he says, but an immortal star.
+
+ Sharp.   Thomas, set that oil painting outside, will you?
+
+ Poe.     They ask the master if they may come to meet me.
+          (Barkeeper approaches Poe) Ah, the master comes himself,
+          for I am one of the chosen.
+
+ Barkeeper.
+          Get out o' this!
+
+ Poe.     (Rising slowly) Thou mighty one, thy servant hears thee!
+
+ Bark.    Eh?
+
+ Poe.     I'll be the humblest round thy throne.
+
+ Bark.    Look here, I was a little soft about you, but now you just
+          shove along!
+
+ Poe.     I beg your pardon,--may I ask the name of this planet?
+
+ Bark.    Eh?
+
+ Poe.     Is it--the earth?
+
+ Bark.    (Shaking him) None o' your squibs!
+
+ Poe.     (Recognizing and throwing him off with momentary strength)
+          Do not touch me, George Thomas. I will go.
+
+ Black.   (Flinging him a piece of silver, which falls to the floor)
+          There's a bed for you.
+
+ Poe.     I dare not touch it, sir, lest I be infected, for the
+          angels who look upon us know that I shall be in health
+          when fever shall sit on your bones and agues make their
+          bed in your marrow!
+
+ Jug.     A gentleman can't stand that jaw. Kick him out, Thomas, or
+          I will.
+
+ Poe.     Do not touch me! You walking clay! who button your coats
+          about three meals a day and think you have belted in the
+          universe! Go listen to the sea lapping rock and bone to
+          her oblivious mill, and know your hearts shall sleep as
+          sand within her shells! By the dead worlds that drift in
+          yonder void, and long have sung the swan-song of their
+          deities, this too shall pass, and ere it passes flesh
+          shall learn its impotence! Grey stalkers from the past
+          shall clutch the throat of days! All wrongs shall rise and
+          gather their revenge! And man--
+
+ Sharp.   Here you crazy Tom! That's just enough!
+
+          (Tries to take hold of Poe)
+
+ Poe.     Off! See what I see! The Conqueror Worm! Fold on fold the
+          red-fanged monster creeps! Look! your doom, ye swine with
+          sodden eyes fast shut against sublimities! Ye--
+
+ Jug.     (Taking Poe by the throat) I'll stop your croaking!
+
+          (Haines and Black pull Juggers from Poe, who falls to seat
+          utterly exhausted)
+
+ Haines.  Can't you keep your hands off a sick man?
+
+ Jug.     Sick! He's the devil!
+
+ Haines.  Then you might as well make his acquaintance.
+
+ Poe.     'Tis here ... death ... and all is yet to say. O, I have
+          chattered as a babe! Now, I could speak, and dust is in my
+          mouth!... Helen, you told me to be content with the
+          letters.... I have tried to read ... to steal God's book.
+          He has punished ... but death pays my bond. Soon I shall
+          read with His eyes and be at peace. Peace! (Gives a dying
+          shudder) Nevermore!... (Rises, staggers to door and opens
+          it wide) O, Night, with thy minstrel winds, blow gently on
+          me dead ... for I have been thy lover! (Looks back at the
+          men who are gazing at him intently, and speaks lowly,
+          erect and godlike) In His own image created He man!...
+          (Turns and steps into the darkness.)
+
+(CURTAIN)
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Semiramis and Other Plays, by Olive Tilford Dargan
+
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