Lysander
Oh, our secret is well guarded. Yet the least whisper or thoughtless word could so easily betray us. (Looks round with a moment’s hesitation, then continues in a lower voice.) I only would—that Lydia——
Phocion
Lydia!
Lysander
She is in great favour with Alexander’s queen, Statira.
Phocion
So much the better! Since she knows nothing there is nothing she can reveal. Alexander seeks to play the generous conqueror. That the wife of Phocion accepts favours that Phocion spurns can only save us from suspicion. The Persian woman helps us without knowing it. And so does Lydia!
Lysander
You are right, Phocion. The Gods show their will in little things like this. We are under their protection. Yet if word reached Alexander of our gathering in your house to-night——