Nevita.

Have you seen the Emperor, friend?

Kytron.

Yes, but he heeds me not. Oh, I humbly beg for a detachment of soldiers to protect me!

Nevita.

[To his followers.] They are giving ground! The shield-bearers forward!

Kytron.

You do not listen to me, sir! My safety is of the utmost importance; my book, “On Equanimity in Affliction,” is not finished——

Nevita.

[As before.] The Persians have been reinforced on the right. They are pressing forward again!