THE QUEEN. (looking after him) A word, and you have forgotten me already. A moment ago I thought you loved me. Now I am nothing to you.
THE PRINCE. The ship—
THE QUEEN. It is ready to sail. They are waiting for you. Why do you not go?
THE PRINCE. I am sorry. But it is as you say. The ship is ready to sail. I must go.
THE QUEEN. Go quickly.
THE PRINCE. Farewell, then.
THE QUEEN. No, stay. (She throws herself at his feet, and clasps his knees.) See, I beg you to stay. I have no shame left. I beg you. Stay even though you despise me. Stay even though you hate me. I do not care. I will be your slave, your bondwoman. I cannot let you go.
She puts her head in her hands, and weeps.
THE PRINCE. (looking down at her) I am sorry. (After a pause)
Farewell.
He touches her lightly on the shoulder, and, looking toward the sea, leaves her. She rises, and watches him with a stony face until he goes.