FAITHFUL PRINCE
Still to the Viceroy of the South, to the real, one we may trust him. His devotion of ten years has stood all tests. So we must now march to meet him, and without losing an hour he must re-trace his steps toward Yunnan with his precious charge. To this end the start must be made instantly, so that the two escorts may meet before nightfall. [To WINGED PRINCE] Prince, until further orders, remain with the Emperor. Keep up constant communication with the frontier, and on the first alarm take the child out of the Empire.
EMPRESS
And every day a courier must bring me news, as long as the roads are free about our walls and our gates are open.
WINGED PRINCE
I shall attend to all, relying on none other than myself.
FAITHFUL PRINCE
And we all know the value of your watchfulness.
[One of the officers who left previously at the command of the EMPRESS returns hastily.]
OFFICER