THE EMPEROR.
(shaking Androcles’ hands frantically) My dearest Mr. Androcles, my sweetest friend, my long lost brother, come to my arms. (He embraces Androcles). Oh, what an abominable smell of garlic!
The lion lets go the robe and rolls over on his back, clasping his forepaws over one another coquettishly above his nose.
ANDROCLES.
There! You see, your worship, a child might play with him now. See! (He tickles the lion’s belly. The lion wriggles ecstatically). Come and pet him.
THE EMPEROR.
I must conquer these unkingly terrors. Mind you don’t go away from him, though. (He pats the lion’s chest).
ANDROCLES.
Oh, sir, how few men would have the courage to do that—
THE EMPEROR.
Yes: it takes a bit of nerve. Let us invite the Court in and frighten them. Is he safe, do you think?
ANDROCLES.
Quite safe now, sir.
THE EMPEROR.
(majestically) What ho, there! All who are within hearing, return without fear. Caesar has tamed the lion. (All the fugitives steal cautiously in. The menagerie keeper comes from the passage with other keepers armed with iron bars and tridents). Take those things away. I have subdued the beast. (He places his foot on it).
FERROVIUS.
(timidly approaching the Emperor and looking down with awe on the lion) It is strange that I, who fear no man, should fear a lion.
THE CAPTAIN.
Every man fears something, Ferrovius.